It was early morning, and a palpable sense of urgency filled the air as a young man in a black suit rushed towards the office entrance. His frustration was evident in his hurried steps, one hand clutching his phone, the other a coffee cup. Just as he was about to step inside, the janitor, an elderly man with kind gray hair and a gentle smile, politely intercepted him.
“Excuse me, sir,” the janitor said softly, gesturing towards the gleaming floor. “The floor is wet. Please be careful; you might slip.”
The young man sighed, irritation clouding his features. “I’m already late for my meeting. Can’t you mop later?” he retorted. The janitor, unperturbed, maintained his kind smile. “I’m sorry, sir, but safety comes first.” Though visibly annoyed, the young man impatiently stepped aside, waiting for the janitor to finish his task.
A few moments later, the atmosphere in the lobby shifted. A woman arrived, exuding an aura of calm confidence, dressed impeccably in a navy blue coat. Instantly, everyone in the lobby rose to their feet. It was the company’s managing director. The young man quickly straightened his tie. “Good morning, ma’am,” he stammered nervously.
The MD offered a brief nod and walked past him, but then stopped abruptly. Her gaze had fallen upon the janitor, who was still carefully wiping the floor. A warm smile touched her lips. “Good morning, Mr. Harris,” she greeted him. “Still taking care of everyone, I see.”
The janitor chuckled. “Trying my best, ma’am. Old habits.” The young man looked utterly shocked. “You know him, ma’am?” he blurted out.
The MD turned to him, a slight amusement in her eyes. “Of course. Mr. Harris has been with this company since the very beginning. When I was an intern, he used to remind me to slow down and not slip on wet floors, too.” She looked at the janitor with genuine warmth. “Mr. Harris, would you please come to my office later? I think it’s time we give you something you truly deserve.”
The janitor’s eyes widened in surprise. “Ma’am, you don’t have to—”
She gently interrupted him. “But I want to. Your honesty and unwavering care have kept this place running safely for years.”
Later that day, the company announced a new position: Safety Supervisor. The role was offered to none other than Mr. Harris, the janitor whose steadfast commitment to kindness and safety had never gone unnoticed.