THE SAGES OF MUSSAR ON THE PARSHA
When the people of Israel were encamped at Mount Sinai, Moshe appointed the Priesthood to Aaron. Even though Korach was jealous of Aaron’s status, he did not express his resentment at this time. He knew that Moshe, who had just succeeded to free the nation from slavery and give them the Torah, was in the heights of power and popularity. Therefore, anyone who spoke against Moshe would be quickly censured.

However, later - after the incident of "the spies" - the people changed their attitude towards Moshe. That is, they blamed Moshe for HaShem’s decree that everyone over twenty-one would die in the desert. When Korach sensed the people’s change of heart toward Moshe, he exploited the situation - and publicly challenged Moshe’s authority.
 
Moshe taught his people the path of life. They deviated from the path and found sore trouble. When death came upon them, they foolishly blamed Moshe, the father of our prophets. Yet, Moshe was completely blameless.  Moreover, if not for the prayer of Moshe, they would have suffered complete annihilation for their utter breach of faith.  
 

We see from this episode that blaming others for one’s own mistakes is one of the most common pitfalls of human nature. The generation that left Egypt is called the "Generation of Wisdom," because HaShem revealed Himself to them. Nevertheless, when they erred in their ways, even these people of stature did not take responsibility for their culpability.

 

Admitting that one is wrong is one of the most difficult challenges in life. However, the virtue of admitting a mistake gives birth to humility - the most precious of all character traits. May we have the moral courage to admit our mistakes and misdeeds. In turn, we will be blessed with peace, forgiveness, and many good friends. 
[Based on Da’as Torah of Rav Yerucham HaLevi and the Ramban]

 

Today:  Ask forgiveness when you recognize that you acted inappropriately.