Why Rachel Is Buried by the Road
Yaakov explained to Yosef why Rachel's grave lies on the roadside rather than in Chevron.
When Yaakov was near the end of his life, he reminded Yosef of how Rachel passed away on the road, a short distance from Efras, and that he had buried her there. Rashi, drawing on the Midrash, explains the reason Yaakov gave. He knew that Yosef might feel hurt that his mother was not brought to the Me'aras HaMachpeilah. Yaakov told him that it was Hashem's command: when Nevuzaradan would drive the Jewish people past that road into exile, Rachel would rise from her resting place and beg mercy on their behalf, as the navi says, a voice is heard in Ramah. Rachel was placed exactly where her children would need her.
Source: Bereishis 48:7, Rashi
Rachel's place is not where it is comfortable but where her children walk in pain. Today, look for someone on a difficult road, such as a person in mourning, a friend with a sick relative, or a neighbor between jobs. Do not wait for a perfect moment. Call, send a note, or bring a simple meal. Your presence does not need clever words. Often the most valuable thing you can give a person who is struggling is the sense that someone is standing close by and will not leave.