I think as a leader, you just take accountability. That's what

Hear, O seekers of truth and strength, the words of Jason Kelce, a warrior of the gridiron, who in the heat of battle learned the essence of leadership: “I think as a leader, you just take accountability. That’s what leadership is. Leadership is taking accountability yourself and holding others to the same standard, regardless of what’s going on.” These words, though born in the stadium, echo across the ages, for they speak to the eternal burden and honor of guiding others. Leadership is not boast or privilege, but the willingness to carry weight—first upon oneself, and then to inspire others to bear it with equal courage.

What is accountability? It is the act of standing firm in truth, of owning one’s deeds, one’s failures, and one’s victories. The weak cast blame, pointing fingers when storms arise. The coward hides, saying, “It was not I.” But the leader steps forward, declaring, “The responsibility is mine.” Such courage breeds trust, for men and women will follow one who does not shrink from burden. Accountability is the steel of leadership, the unseen armor that gives strength not only to the one who wears it, but to all who march behind.

And what of holding others to the same standard? Here lies the balance of justice and discipline. The leader cannot demand of others what he himself will not do; nor can he allow those in his care to falter without correction. For if he holds himself accountable yet excuses those beside him, he builds weakness; but if he holds others without first bearing the standard himself, he breeds resentment. True leadership demands consistency, a fairness that strengthens the whole. In this balance, a community, a team, an army, a nation may stand united, each accountable to the same light of truth.

History shows us this truth with shining clarity. Consider the story of George Washington at Valley Forge. His army starved and froze through the bitter winter, yet he did not feast while his soldiers suffered. He shared in their hardships, stood among them, bore their trials as his own. In doing so, he earned their loyalty—not by command alone, but by accountability. When he demanded endurance from them, they knew he first demanded it from himself. And because of that, they followed him through despair into eventual triumph. His leadership was not merely authority—it was accountability embodied.

Think also of Ernest Shackleton, the explorer whose Antarctic expedition was trapped in the ice. In the face of despair, Shackleton did not abandon his men, nor cast blame upon them for misfortune. Instead, he bore responsibility, ensuring every man was fed, sheltered, and kept in spirit. He held himself accountable for their survival, and in return, his men gave him their trust. Against impossible odds, all returned alive. Shackleton’s story remains a testament that leadership in its purest form is not glory or conquest, but the relentless acceptance of responsibility, even when the world crumbles.

The lesson, O listeners, is clear: leadership is accountability. If you are called to lead, do not seek power as a throne, but as a burden you must bear with honor. Step forward when blame is to be had; share credit when triumph is won. Hold yourself to the highest standard, and only then hold others to it as well. In this way, you will inspire respect, unity, and strength that endure beyond any single battle or season of hardship.

Therefore, in your own life, practice this sacred discipline. If you falter, admit it quickly. If you triumph, share the praise generously. When you guide others—be they family, colleagues, or friends—set the example by carrying the weight first upon yourself. Do not demand what you are unwilling to live. Let your life proclaim accountability, and others will rise to meet it. For as Jason Kelce has spoken, and as the ancients have long known: leadership is not glory taken, but responsibility embraced.

Take this truth as a torch: “Leadership is taking accountability.” Walk with it through the storms of life, and you will not only guide yourself but light the way for others. And in that light, greatness will not be a matter of chance, but the natural fruit of responsibility, courage, and honor.