One day Haj Ahmad Aqa invited Mr. Mahmoud Borujerdi-son-in-law of the Imam to his house. At this invitation, Messrs. S?ani'i, Tawassuli, Jamarani and other friends were also present. As a mark of respect for the father of Mr. Mahmoud Borujerdi, the Imam after reciting the mandatory prayer joined the gathering. This get-together coincided with the visit of Ayatullah Khamene'i to the United Nations. Among those present, the discussion revolved around his eloquent speech in that organization. The invitees praised the spirited and powerful speech of Ayatullah Khamene'i that was particularly useful in explaining Islam and the Islamic Revolution. At this time, when the father of Mr. Mahmoud Borujerdi began to speak, those present fell silent and listened to his words. He supplicated for the health of the Imam and mentioned that because of the blessed presence of the Great Leader of the Islamic Revolution, the beloved Islam was now a factor in big organizations such as the United Nations. The Imam with his trademark humility stated: "It is the nation that has discovered its path and the authorities also know what they must do. Now this path will continue whether I am present or not. It is this presence of the nation in the arena that has gained us respect." He added: "I am certain that the nation of Iran will remain present in the arena and even this presence will also increase qualitatively."[1]
[1] Presence of the nation has brought us respect in its wake: 'Ali Akbar Ashtiyani