It is clear that a truly great leader is someone who not only leads and influences his immediate circle, but the broader world as well. The inspiration he provides far exceeds the location of his physical presence. His example is so powerful that it energizes and spiritualizes more people, in more ways, than the leader could ever imagine.
Am Yisrael recently lost such a leader with the passing of HaGaon Rabbi Dr. Aharon Lichtenstein, zt”l. Although I did not have the privilege of being his talmid in a direct sense (though I heard him speak multiple times and read many of his articles), I, and thousands of people like me, have been inspired by his wisdom, leadership, and guidance. Although Yeshivat Har Etzion was his immediate Beit Midrash, his presence was felt in the broader outside world. He was truly the tree of his generation. Yehi Zichro Baruch.