Grooming leaders

                People rue electronic devices for many reasons.  Primarily, though, the focus of the criticism is the lack of focus that these devices produce.  The beeps and subsequent dopamine rushes are hard to overcome. Often, phantom vibrations and incessant phone checks ensue.  This week’s parsha highlights a bigger problem with technology.  It is hard to get close to people today.  Even the sound of a live voice is considered too close as we resort to texting and emailing as our primary mode of communication and this may be hampering our development in a different way.

                In today’s parsha we are introduced to Joshua.  What is interesting is how he is described- he is Moshe’s servant, not student. The midrash elaborates that he served Moses by setting up his classroom with benches and mats where people could sit. Something that today would be relegated to a janitorial role. At the end of the parsha, as we flip back to Moses’ preparation to ascend Mt. Sinai, it says that Joshua followed him as far as he could go and then bids adieu to his mentor.  One might think that after seeing his Rabbi off that he would now go home. But, no, he pitches a tent and encamps for 40 days until Moshe returns lest he be a moment without his helper. Today we would describe Joshua as a nudnik, not loyal.  Nonetheless, it is Joshua who will become the next leader because as the Talmud corroborates it is better to serve a teacher than merely learn from him. Why? 

                There are three ideas that we need to highlight.  The simple understanding is that service breeds humility.  When it comes to learning and growth that is the character trait we need in abundance for it allows us to see reality as it is rather than confirm the reality we want.  The second idea is that for a new wick to burn it needs to get close to the flame.  A proper mentor has a vibrancy that needs to be felt in order to grow to the next level.  Finally, a relationship always needs to be a two way street. If a mentor gives wisdom, a student needs to give back care.  This creates a true bond between teacher and student with which more and more transmission can take place.  These lessons are crucial to produce the next generation of leaders.