ונקדשתי בתוך בני ישראל (אמור כב:לב)

Reb Shmuel of Slonim zt’’l used to visit Reb Duvid Moshe of Tchortkov zt’’l.  Once, one of the Kehilla members came to the holy Tchortkover saying that the Rosh Hakahal – the community leader was very arrogant and created disputes amongst community members.  The Rebbe asked Reb Shmuel to go to the Rosh Hakahal’s home to settle matters..

Reb Shmuel met with the Rosh Hakahal and asked him to step down so that shalom—peace—would reign in the city. The Rosh Hakahal replied, “I feel that if I give up my position, I won’t be able to live anymore and will die.”

Reb Shmiel replied: “You read Kriyas Shema twice a day, accepting upon yourself mesiras nefesh – sacrifice for Hashem’s sake.  Now is your chance to sacrifice yourself for Hashem because of Shalom – peace!”

The Rosh Hakahal obeyed, stepped away from his position, and shalom reigned in the city.  The Rosh Hakahal lived many more years in peace.