By Rabbi Yitzchak Blau, WebYeshivaBe careful with the authorities because they only become close to a person for their own benefit They befriend when it helps them but do not stand up for you when things are difficult. (Avot 2:3)We can easily understand a directive to exercise caution regarding politicians. Those with excessive ambition or a lust for power often rise to political prominence. They kiss babies and dispense warm handshakes when in need of support but do not truly care for their constituents. The seat of power may exert a corrupting influence even on those beginning their careers with nobler motivations.How does this mishna relate the earlier mishna in which Shemaya instructed his students “not to make themselves known to the government” (Avot 1:10). In theory, we could understand Shemaya as adopting a more sweepingly negative position. Whereas one mishnah speaks only of caution, Shemaya advocated avoiding the authorities at all costs.In truth, the two mishnayot need not conflict. According to one interpretation in Avot deRabbi Natan (11:3), Shemaya speaks of keeping a low profile. Those with wealth should not flaunt it because word will reach the halls of power and dukes and governors will soon attempt to avail themselves of the riches. Of course, Shemaya realizes that some situations call for interacting with the government. When called for, we engage with politicians but do so with a vigilant eye.Tosafot Yom Tov explicitly states that the two mishnayot do not contradict each other. Shemaya never denied the great service that court Jews such as Mordechai and R. Yehuda Hanasi offered to Am Yisrael. The former’s work with Achashverosh helped save the Jewish people and the latter cultivated an important friendship with a Roman emperor. Shemaya would not think them mistaken; he would applaud their efforts.An important theme emerges. Difficult and potentially dangerous endeavors can be necessary. Numerous sermons regarding the evils of politics do not change the fact that one can make a positive difference in the houses of power. We proceed with caution but proceed nonetheless.