Ron Washington and Respect

Ron Washington, former manager of the Texas Rangers, made a public statement today.  For those who live outside the DFW area or who are not baseball fans, you might be wondering why this was a big deal.  Two weeks ago Ron Washington, the most successful and beloved manger in the history of the Rangers, resigned.  The team only said it was due to personal issues.  Since then, rumors have abound.  Some of the rumors focused on a conflict between Ron and the general manager, Jon Daniels.  Other reports insinuated that Ron Washington had become involved in an inappropriate sexual relationship with a female reporter.  Ron's comments today confirmed that it was the later.

I have always liked Ron Washington.  He is an old school baseball guy.  He also always made it clear that he respected the game and its history.  One of my favorite R. W. quotes is, "That's the way baseball go."   Translated: That just the way the game has always been.  Ron also is, an always will be, a coach and teacher.  He still pitched batting practice and spent time each day on the field teaching basic skills. He loves the running game and doesn't hesitate to try a squeeze play.

Today we also discovered that Ron Washington respects marriage and the commitment between husband and wife.  Ron has been married to Gerry Washington for 42 years.  He wants us to believe the only reason he resigned is because he desires to focus on his relationship with his wife.  He accepted responsibility for the act and apologized to the players, coaches, fans.  He also asked for privacy.  There are people who want more.  They are not convinced his affair is the real reason behind his departure.  There must have been a feud or some conflict.  Still other fans have reacted with, "What's the big deal?  People have affairs all the time and still keep their jobs."

Ron Washington lives life passionately.  Those who covered the Rangers said he was the most transparent coach they had ever worked with.  You always knew where he stood.  He could be honest to a fault.  That's why I want to believe him this time.  He made a poor choice and has accepted responsibility.  Now he wants space to focus on the relationship with his wife.  He only wants us to accept that and his apology.  He also wants us to let it go and move on.

Sounds like a great lesson for all of us.  When we mess up, take ownership and responsibility.  If an apology is needed, it ought to be given.  That is a behavior that makes us authentic and real to those around us, especially our kids.