A woman who was pregnant rushed into the hospital lobby, evidently in pain and about to have a baby. A lot of folks were frightened because there weren’t any nurses or doctors there. The front desk was confused. Some staff members didn’t want to help with a “messy” birth because they were too proud to do something that wasn’t part of their job. Lisa hurried to help while others stood around doing nothing. She brought the woman to a bench, gave her clear but kind directions, and with the support of just one nervous orderly, she safely delivered the baby in a matter of minutes.
It was a daring, real, and true moment. Even after that, no one clapped for her. Nobody wrote down her name. She just cleaned up and walked back to her allocated floor like nothing had occurred.
Toby was shocked. Not just her skills, but also how humble she is. He liked her at first, but now he liked her much more. As they talked softly in the break room and supply closets, Toby felt a warmth he hadn’t felt in years. Lisa laughed a lot, talked about her child, and asked “James” about his dreams. She didn’t know what was really going on with his mop.
But the truth couldn’t stay buried for long.
Toby had been watching and hurting for weeks, so he resolved to show everyone who he really was. He couldn’t change the hospital or give Lisa an award because he was a janitor. Toby made it to the scheduled meeting of the executive staff, where all the department heads were. He donned a tailored suit instead of a cleaner’s clothing.
The room got quiet.
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