VISION and courage were qualities that made Benazir Bhutto a major and charismatic figure on the world's political stage.
And they were, of course, the very qualities that made her a target for forces of hatred and intolerance intent on destabilising Pakistan.
Today, as the country teeters on the edge of chaos after her assassination, they are qualities that Pakistan needs in abundance.
There is no exaggerating the seriousness of the situation confronting the country, a key ally in the war against terror.
Next month's elections – now far from certain to take place – would have heralded democracy's return to that land.
That in itself would have been welcomed by men and women of goodwill the world over.
But crucially the election of a democratic government, with the legitimacy that carries, would have provided an opportunity for Pakistan, riven by divisions, to move forward in unity against the terrorists and fanatics who hold sway in large parts of the country.
And a stable, peaceful and purposeful Pakistan might then have strode forward confidently towards the sort of economic miracle being witnessed nearby in India.
Democracy's flame is flickering dangerously low today, but it is vital that it does not go out.
Internally, Pakistan's leading political figures have a duty to nurture the flame and internationally world figures must provide encouragement and support.
Ms Bhutto was an extraordinary woman who pursued her dream of a united, strong and untroubled Pakistan despite the execution of her father and violent deaths of her two brothers.
Mourn the loss of a woman who was the West's friend but not its stooge – and pray that others in her land share qualities the whole world will miss.