Millionaire Dresses as a Bum and Visits His Company on an Undercover Mission — Story of the Day

A homeless man enters an office in search of comfort, but instead encounters a life-altering moment that reveals the true nature of those in his vicinity. They are unaware that he possesses the potential to alter their future—provided that they exhibit a modicum of benevolence.

Richard drew his coat tighter as he approached one of his company’s offices, the frigid air biting at his skin. The previous month had been a difficult and discouraging experience.

He had visited each branch of his organization in an effort to identify an individual who continued to embody the principles he had endeavored to inculcate. However, he was consistently met with indifference, disdain, or open rejection.

His sole avenue of hope was this branch. Tom, a young man whom Richard had mentored since his university days, was the manager. Tom had been coached by Richard, who had imparted his expertise and experience in the business.

Richard was now about to determine whether his endeavors had been successful.

His thoughts veered to the past as he made his way toward the entrance. He recalled that his visits had been magnificent in the past. The staff would form a line to welcome him with champagne and warm smiles, anxious to impress the company’s wealthy owner.

Until it was too late, Richard was oblivious to the man who was strolling toward him, distracted by his thoughts. The man shot him a disgusted expression after they collided.

Before vanishing into the building, the man spat, “Watch where you’re going, you bum!”

Richard did not respond. He had become accustomed to such insults over the past month, as he was now merely Richie, a homeless man in search of a few moments of compassion and warmth.

He had been denied entry to every office he visited, as he was posing as an individual who had fallen on hard times. He hoped that this time would be different.

Richard entered the office and approached the security officer, hoping that this time would be different. He steeled himself.

The guard’s expression was one of contempt as he regarded Richard with a scowl. “What do you desire, slob?” he inquired with apprehension.

Richard maintained a steady tone as he stated, “I simply need to warm up and potentially acquire a meal.”

The sentry shook his head. “This is not a homeless shelter.” It is imperative that you depart from this location. Right now.”

Richard maintained his composure. “I am merely requesting a small amount of food.” Is it possible for you to contact Tom? I believe that he would be able to assist me.

The guard’s laughter was acrid. “Who is Tom?” The moment he observes you, he will evict you.

“Please,” Richard beseeched, anticipating a token of generosity.

The guard sighed deeply and rolled his eyes, as if the task was beneath him. Eventually, he beckoned Tom. Richard considered sitting down while waiting and observed the comfortable-looking settee in the vicinity.

The guard yelled, “Don’t even consider it,” as he approached it. Remain in your current location.

Richard stepped back to his position, nodding. Subsequently, a young woman entered the structure. She extended a cordial greeting to the guard and was on her way to the elevator when she caught sight of Richard. She paused, observing his weathered appearance, and her demeanor softened.

The woman’s eyes were filled with concern as she paused. “Sir, are you in good health?” Are you in need of assistance?

Richard halted. “I simply require some time to warm up, possibly acquire a meal, and, if feasible, consume some water.”

She promptly presented him with a bottle of water. “Please accept this.” Allow me to transport you to the office. There is sustenance available.

Richard examined the vial. “However, it is your water,” he stated.

She assured him, “It is not a concern.” “I implore you to accompany me.”

The sentinel intervened as Richard advanced. “Tom instructed me not to permit anyone entry without his authorization.”

The woman formed an expression of disapproval. “However, this individual is merely seeking sustenance.” What is your name, sir?

“Richie.”

She reiterated, “Richie’s sole desire is to consume food.”

The sentry crossed his arms. “Tom is currently on his way there.” This individual will remain stationary until that time.

The woman’s demeanor became more inflexible. “What a show of disrespect!” He is a human being, much like you and me. Why should he be regarded differently?

The elevator doors opened before the sentry could respond, and Tom stepped out, irritated. “What is the situation?” he inquired.

Richard spoke in a composed manner, stating, “Good afternoon, sir.” I merely desired to warm up and consume a meal.

Tom’s countenance contorted through contempt. “Do I appear to be a volunteer?” Evacuate this location! Immediately! The organization’s credibility is being undermined by your actions. What if a consumer observes a homeless individual in the office?

The woman endeavored to rationalize. “However, Tom is merely seeking sustenance.”

Tom abruptly turned on her. “And what does it mean to you, Lindsay?” You are merely an assistant. We urge you to resume your duties.

Tom yelled at the sentry without waiting for a response. “Remove him.” “And you,” he directed at the woman, “follow me.”

She quickly whispered, “Go to the back entrance,” as she passed by Richard. I will accompany you to supper.

Richard was barely able to nod before the guard grabbed him by the forearm and violently pushed him toward the door, hurling him out onto the frigid street without a second thought.

Richard approached the rear entrance with a minor shiver. The same woman who had assisted him earlier emerged a few minutes later, accompanied by a cordial smile.

“Let’s depart.” Nearby, there is a charming, diminutive restaurant. “The food is exceptionally good, despite its lack of sophistication,” she stated, gesturing toward the street.

Richard pursued her, appreciating her generosity. “I am at a loss as to how to express my gratitude.” “Lindsay, correct?” he inquired, attempting to recollect her name.

She smiled and shook her head. “My name is Nancy.” Tom consistently fails to achieve accuracy. Each day, he names me a new appellation. It is possible that he believes that this method is more convenient. However, there is no necessity to express gratitude. It is the least I can do.

They strolled in silence for a brief period until they arrived at the diminutive restaurant. The waiters made disapproving glances at them, but Nancy appeared to be unconcerned. She escorted Richard to a table and occupied the opposite side.

She urged him to order whatever he desired; it was her treat.

“Thank you,” Richard inquired after a moment of hesitation. Do they pay you so well that you are able to purchase sustenance for a stranger with such ease?

Nancy’s smile diminished marginally as she exhaled. “Not really.” Tom guaranteed me a significantly higher salary during my job interview. However, he ultimately determined that it was an excessive amount for a young woman who had recently graduated from college.

Richard’s wrath was boiling within him as he clenched his fists beneath the table. Tom had evolved into an individual whom Richard no longer recognized.

Nancy observed his expression and responded, “However, it is not a significant issue to treat you.” My grandmother consistently instilled in me the notion that kindness is its own recompense. I enjoy assisting, regardless of whether it is necessary.

Nancy blushed slightly and muttered, “That probably sounded insulting.” I did not intend to…”

Richard tenderly interrupted her as he reached across the table. “It is satisfactory.” I am in need of assistance, and your grandmother was a wise woman.

Nancy reached for her wallet and paid for the entire meal without hesitation, smiling warmly. She then insisted that Richard take some extra food with him, packing it precisely and handing it to him with a gentle smile.

Richard hesitated before accepting her generosity, and he experienced a sense of warmth that he had not experienced in a long time. He observed not only compassion but also a sincere heart in the young woman. Richard came to the realization that he had finally discovered the person he had been seeking for for an extended period of time—someone who genuinely cared.

Nancy entered the office with her customary fortitude, prepared to endure yet another day of Tom’s disparaging remarks. However, something was amiss. The usual hum of chatter was displaced by frantic whispers.

The individuals were huddled in small groups, their features tense. Nancy approached a colleague she trusted when she sensed that something was amiss.

“What is the matter?” Nancy endeavored to maintain her voice as she inquired.

Her colleague gazed at her with wide-open eyes, astounded. “The organization’s proprietor has passed away.” No one is aware of the individual who will inherit the company, as he has no offspring.

Nancy experienced a shiver down her spine. “What implications does this have for us?”

Her colleague clarified, “Tom believes that he is the next in line.” “He was, after all, the owner’s protégé.” We are all anticipating the lawyer’s arrival to resolve the matter.

The elevator doors opened as if by magic, and the lawyer emerged. Tom, who appeared to be enthusiastic, hastened to greet him, obstructing his path.

Tom’s enthusiasm was not even acknowledged by the counsel. “I am not present to engage in idle conversation,” he declared, his voice trembling. “I require to consult with Nancy.”

The office was enveloped in silence as all eyes were directed toward Nancy. She was bewildered by the sudden attention she was receiving, which caused her pulse to race. She inquired, her voice barely above a murmur, “Me?”

The counsel briefly observed her. “Are you Nancy?”

“Y-yes,” she stammered, her bewilderment intensifying.

“Consequently, you are the individual with whom I must communicate.” May we convene in private to deliberate on this matter?

Nancy, bewildered, nodded and escorted the counsel into the conference room. As soon as the door closed behind them, she was unable to suppress her inquiries. “I am unable to comprehend the situation.”

The lawyer’s expression was unintelligible. “You have assumed ownership of the organization.” Congratulations.

“What?” The small room echoed with Nancy’s voice, which was considerably louder than she wanted.

A folder was set on the table by the lawyer in a composed manner. “The documents are attached, and Richard has already signed them.” The company is yours upon signing.

“However, I am unable to comprehend the situation.” “What is it about me?” Nancy was feeling inundated.

“Richard bequeathed the company to you,” the lawyer stated, reaching into his briefcase. “Also, there is a letter—I nearly overlooked it.” He immediately handed the letter to Nancy, who eagerly tore it open in search of answers.

“Dear Nancy,

I was informed of my imminent death six months ago. Honestly, I have been able to maintain my composure for an extended period of time than I had anticipated. It was a shock. The troubling notion that I had no one to bequeath my company to was the driving force that sustained me and provided me with the fortitude to persist.

I was unaware of any spouse or offspring. The uncertainty surrounding the future of the organization that I had established from the ground up was a significant source of anxiety for me.

I made a decision approximately one month ago. I resolved to visit each branch of my organization in order to determine whether there was an individual, or individuals, who could continue the work that I had initiated. But I was adamant about not being perceived as the proprietor.

I disguised myself as a destitute man in order to observe the genuine character of the individuals who were employed by me. I desired to comprehend their true nature and the manner in which they treated those who appeared to be in a state of destitution.

In all honesty, I was profoundly disappointed. The door was not even opened for me. I was nearly demoralized by the absence of the compassion and respect that I had anticipated. That was the case until I encountered you.

Nancy, your kindness and your presence have reignited my faith. I perceive in you a heart that is brimming with compassion and a spirit of integrity, despite your immaturity and inexperience. These are the qualities that are most important, surpassing any skill or knowledge.

Kindly maintain your authenticity. The company will be guided by compassion and wisdom, and all other details will be resolved as you progress.

I, yours sincerely, Richard

(Or as you knew me, Richie)

P.S. Your initial obligation as the new proprietor is to terminate Tom and replace him with Timmy.