You lead with direction, and you try to lead by example. I try

Hear, O listeners, the wise words of Roger Penske, who declared: “You lead with direction, and you try to lead by example. I try to be there when things are not good and obviously share the spoils of success.” These words are no idle reflection but a code of leadership forged in the heat of trial and triumph. In them, we find the eternal pattern of true command—not domination, not tyranny, but guidance, sacrifice, and fellowship. For the great leader is not the one who sits highest upon the throne, but the one who bears the greatest weight upon his shoulders.

First, he speaks of direction. Without direction, a people are as a ship without a compass, drifting upon stormy seas. To lead is not merely to hold authority, but to see farther than others, to discern the horizon, and to point the way. Penske reminds us that the leader must chart the path clearly, so that all may walk in unity of purpose. This is the essence of vision: to light the lantern when darkness confuses, to raise the banner when the fog of uncertainty blinds. Without direction, even the strongest army falters.

But direction alone is not enough. Penske declares also the power of example. For the commander who speaks but does not act becomes a hollow echo, and the people will not follow him into the fire. To lead by example is to place oneself among the laborers, to sweat where they sweat, to endure what they endure. History reveals this truth in the figure of Alexander the Great, who marched with his soldiers, shared their hardships, and bled in their battles. Because he bore the same wounds, his men followed him across deserts and mountains to the ends of the earth. His authority was not forced—it was earned by example.

And then Penske speaks of presence in adversity: “I try to be there when things are not good.” This is the mark of the noble leader. For when victory comes, many will gather; but when hardship strikes, the false shepherd flees. The true leader remains, standing firm when the storm rages, offering steadiness when others despair. Consider Winston Churchill, who, during the darkest days of World War II, did not retreat to silence but lifted his voice to steel his people’s courage. He was present when things were not good, and by his presence gave strength to an entire nation.

Yet Penske’s wisdom does not end in hardship—he also reminds us to share the spoils of success. The tyrant hoards victory, claiming it as his own. But the just leader divides triumph among his people, knowing that no battle is won by one alone. In Rome, victorious generals paraded through the streets not only to glorify themselves, but to distribute wealth, food, and celebration to their citizens. For true success is not complete unless it is shared, and the loyalty of followers is sealed not by fear but by gratitude.

Thus, in these words, we are given a full picture of leadership: direction to guide, example to inspire, presence in adversity to strengthen, and generosity in triumph to unify. Penske’s creed is the eternal blueprint for all who would bear the mantle of responsibility. It is not an easy road, for it demands sacrifice, humility, and courage. But those who walk it leave a legacy that outlives their years.

The lesson for us, O seekers, is this: whether you lead armies or families, companies or friendships, lead with direction, act with example, remain steadfast in hardship, and be generous in triumph. Do not vanish when times are hard, nor claim glory when it belongs to many. Instead, stand firm, live humbly, and share abundantly.

Take this into your daily life: in your work, be the one who steps forward first; in your family, be the one who remains when storms come; in your community, be the one who shares the fruits of victory. For leadership is not a crown upon the head, but a burden upon the heart—and when carried with honor, it becomes the noblest calling of all.