The benefits of class

Roy Oswalt is one of the best pitchers in Baseball, he could go most anywhere. Yet he's said he'll waive his right to a 16 million dollar 2012 pay package (waive his 'option) only if he is traded to the Cardinals. Willing to potentially give up 16 million. Dollars. To sweat in the 'lou. Now why would anyone do that? Answer that question and you have the secret of the Cardinals century of leadership in the National League. With 10 World Championships, second only to the Yankees. The Yankees did it with money. The Cardinals? With class.  Here's the details:

Roy Oswalt Trade Talks at a Standstill | Bleacher Report: "Oswalt made it clear that if he were traded to anywhere but St. Louis, he would want his $16 million option in 2012 to be picked up. He said he would waive the option being picked up for an opportunity to pitch for the reigning National League Central champions.

That, plus the fact that Oswalt named St. Louis as his first choice for a destination, was what gave the Cardinals the upper hand"

This is a lesson for all of us.  Don't take short cuts, keep your promises, respect effort and celebrate those that contribute and people will sacrifice to serve with you.

As Ronald Reagan said:  "There is no end to what you can achieve if you don't care who gets the credit".