I think self-reliance and self-responsibility and

Henry Rollins declared: “I think self-reliance and self-responsibility and self-accountability will help you as a parent, a teacher, as a citizen, as a friend.” In these words, we hear not only the echo of a modern artist and thinker, but the timeless counsel of the ancients. He speaks of the virtues that bind a man or woman to integrity—virtues that make them trustworthy in the eyes of children, students, neighbors, and companions. For one who cannot govern themselves, who cannot bear the weight of their own actions, can scarcely be trusted to guide, to teach, to nurture, or to stand beside others in loyalty.

The first virtue he names is self-reliance. This is the courage to stand upon one’s own feet, to act without perpetual dependence, to trust one’s ability to provide for oneself and one’s household. The ancients called this fortitude: the strength to endure storms without collapsing. A parent who is self-reliant does not burden their children with fears of survival. A citizen who is self-reliant strengthens the whole by refusing to drain the common store. It is the power of standing firm, not in arrogance, but in strength that blesses others.

Next comes self-responsibility. This is the wisdom to recognize that one’s actions carry weight, that every deed leaves a mark on the world and on the hearts of others. A teacher who embodies responsibility does not abandon their pupils in ignorance, but guides them with care. A friend who embraces responsibility does not betray trust, but acts as a steady shield in times of need. Responsibility is the acceptance that freedom and duty are bound together, as the body and the shadow cannot be separated.

Then, Rollins speaks of self-accountability—the discipline to look in the mirror and see the truth without excuse. The ancient Stoics taught this as daily reflection, examining one’s life as a judge examines testimony. Without accountability, self-reliance becomes pride, and responsibility becomes empty words. To admit error, to confess weakness, to vow correction—this is the strength of the true leader, the true parent, the true citizen. For accountability is not weakness; it is the courage to remain honest before both oneself and others.

History offers us examples carved in light and stone. Consider George Washington, who could have seized power as king, yet held himself accountable to the principles of liberty, stepping down after his term to preserve the Republic. He was self-reliant in war, responsible in peace, and accountable to the ideals greater than himself. His legacy endured not because of titles or riches, but because he governed first his own soul. Contrast this with leaders who sought glory without accountability—their kingdoms crumbled, and their names are remembered with scorn.

The lesson, then, is clear: to be of service to others, one must first be strong within. A parent who shirks responsibility wounds their children. A teacher who avoids accountability misleads their students. A citizen who depends on others without giving in return weakens the state. A friend who refuses responsibility for their actions betrays trust. But when one embraces these three virtues—self-reliance, responsibility, and accountability—they become a pillar others can lean upon, a lamp in times of darkness.

Practically, let each person train themselves in these ways. Rise each day asking: “Am I standing upon my own strength, or leaning idly upon others?” At night ask: “Did I act with responsibility toward those entrusted to me?” And always ask: “Am I honest about my faults, willing to correct them, willing to grow?” In this daily practice, a soul is shaped into one who is both strong and gentle, both firm and trustworthy.

Thus Rollins’s words, though spoken in our time, carry the gravity of timeless wisdom. For the greatest gift one can give to others is not wealth or knowledge alone, but the steady example of a life disciplined by self-reliance, illuminated by responsibility, and purified by accountability. Such a life becomes a fortress for family, a foundation for community, and a light for generations yet unborn.