An old man who was severely injured lost 3/4 of his blood volume. While he stayed in the hospital to recuperate, aides came to check him. They discovered him out of bed and on the floor on his hands and knees. Concerned, they queried him. The man replied that he had accidentally spilled water and didn’t want the nurse on duty to get in trouble for the hazardous condition in the room.
His reaction was clearly instinctual. It revealed a kind and selfless disposition. The antic was also a truly humble one. The man on the floor was President Ronald Reagan following the attempted assassination on his life. Even though in poor health and elderly this most powerful man felt no self-importance. He made a spill so he swabbed the floor.