Only the Alter Could Say It

When his talmid Rav Yeruchem Levovitz visited Slabodka, the Alter spoke to him in strong terms. He told him not to be so charismatic, because a charismatic approach would stunt the growth of his own talmidim as individuals.

Rav Yitzchok Ruderman, who was present, later remarked that if he had spoken to his own students in that way, they would surely have left him. Only the Alter could have said it.