And Yosef lived 110 years (Bereshis 50:21)

Yosef ruled in Egypt for 80 years. He started as the viceroy when he was 30 years old and remained in the position until his death at 110. That’s a long time for someone to be a ruler. How did he merit to have such a long rulership? The reason is because he was forced into this position. He did not choose to be the ruler. Pharoah told him that he needed to be the one in charge.

At the end of the 7th book of Harry Potter, Professor Dumbledore taught Harry Potter a very important lesson. He said most people in positions of power fail because they desire greatness for themselves. Harry, on the other hand, was successful because he did not choose to be great. He was forced into his position in life because of the lightning shaped scar on his forehead. He did not choose what happened to him.

This is the key. People who force their way into positions of power are not successful. People who are forced into positions of power are.

It is amazing how the governmental figures are chosen. These people, although they may be great, campaign for months to convince others how great they are. They constantly repeat “vote for me because… this or that reason.” They put down their opponents – many times using Lashon Hara and Motzi Shem Ra.

On the other hand, look at how our great leaders are chosen. Roshei Yeshiva and Rabbaim are told by their Roshei Yeshiva and Rabbaim that they need to take a leadership position. In many yeshivos, the next Rosh Yeshiva is appointed by the current Roshei Yeshiva. They are forced into the position. I remember a few years ago when my local yeshiva was looking for a new Rosh Yeshiva, they did not ask for applications. They approached someone and told him that he was going to be the next Rosh Yeshiva. The immediate answer was “no”, I don’t want the position. It took a few days until he finally said “yes”. Imagine after Election Day the new President, Governor, Senator, or Mayor saying “no, I don’t want the position.”

Want to be in a position of power – make yourself great so that others force you into a position of power. Yosef did not choose to be a leader and had one of the longest rulerships in world history.

Good Shabbos!
-yes
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