Young Leaders

Tishrei 7, 5713
Sept. 25, 1952

...In thinking of ourselves alone, however, we would only deal with part of our obligations. As I have emphasized many times in the past, one should not and must not be content with leading a proper Jewish life personally, in one's own home and family. One must recognize and fulfill a duty to the environment in the way of influencing everyone in it to adhere to the Torah and to its precepts.

This duty is particularly required of youth, in whom G-d has bestowed an extra measure of natural energy, enabling them to become leaders, particularly among their own youth groups, to inspire others in the ways of our Torah and Torah-true way of life.

I hope and pray that everyone of you will become a leader and source of good influence in your environment, leading Jews, and Jewish youth particularly, to a true Jewish life, a life of happiness, a life where its spiritual and material aspects are properly balanced. Such perfect harmony of the spiritual and material can only be found in the Torah and Mitzvoth, and in the light of the Torah you will lead your colleagues and friends to true happiness...