What is power? They say you only know if you have it. The truth is power has inspired and motivated people since the beginning of time, but power is overrated; the lust for it usually corrupts us and pains those around us. How do we resist it temptation?
The answer lies in this week's Parsha when Korach rebels against Moshe and Aaron, complaining that they have placed themselves above the rest of the nation. Moshe, rather than defend himself, is wholly focused on his mission and simply says everything I've done has been by G-d's command. Essentially, he is telling them that it's not about me but what I can do to fulfill Hashem's desire to make the world more divine and a better place for all people.
This week, we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Rebbe's passing; I hope you'll join us on Tuesday evening for a special event in honor of this occasion. The Rebbe, like Moshe, was utterly uninterested in power, though it was readily available to him. The Rebbe's only desire was to help others better themselves and empower them to help others. Influence, not power, is the true measure of a person, and not the kind you find on Instagram. The Rebbe constantly asked the question what can I do to help this person in front of me? How can I use this moment to improve G-d's world? When you place these intentions at the heart of who you are and the guiding force in every choice you make, you will create a legacy that inspires others to follow your lead.
Let us take a lesson from Moshe and The Rebbe and stop thinking about ourselves and how much power we have. Instead, let us consider how the right choices can elevate those around us and bring our whole world closer to the coming of Moshiach, with peace and tranquility for our world.
Mission: This week, choose influence over power and devote your life to the service of G-d and your fellow humans. There's nothing more powerful than that.