On a day in 1996, South African entrepreneur Peter was invited to President Mandela's home to discuss a business cooperation project with the government.
Peter arrived punctually at 10:30 AM. To his utter surprise, the person waiting for him outside the parking lot was none other than President Mandela himself, aged 78.
After the car stopped, Mandela warmly greeted Peter and his driver, Dumi, and led them into the house. According to Peter's company etiquette, drivers were not supposed to stay in the host's home for long. Consequently, Dumi drank a glass of water and quietly excused himself, returning to the car to wait for Peter.
The conversation between Peter and Mandela was pleasant. The deal was quickly settled, and the two then slowed down to chat. When it was time for lunch, Mandela did not announce the start of the meal. The chef came in to remind him a few times, but Mandela asked him to wait a bit longer. Peter found this confusing but was too polite to ask why.
Time flew by, and it was past 1:00 PM. "Peter, I originally thought you were accompanied by two people," Mandela said.
"Oh, no, I came alone," Peter replied immediately.
"Then what happened to the other gentleman? I mean Dumi."
"Oh, Dumi is just my driver. He is waiting in the car."
Upon hearing this, Mandela immediately stood up and walked out. Peter followed closely. He watched as Mandela walked straight to the parking lot and stood in front of the car. He gently tapped on the driver's window. After the window was rolled down, Mandela leaned down and said to Dumi inside: "Excuse me, I would like to invite you to join us for lunch. Is that okay?"
This was completely unexpected for both Peter and Dumi, and it was an invitation Dumi could not refuse. When the three of them returned to the room, Mandela immediately signaled the chef to serve the food. Peter suddenly realized why Mandela had been delaying the meal all along—Mandela had been waiting for Dumi to return.
It was indeed a delayed lunch, but it left a lasting impression on Peter, and especially on Dumi, the driver, who was deeply grateful and would never forget this moment.
How a person treats the "small figures" around them reveals whether they are truly a great leader. To win the sincere obedience and follow of others, especially those in less powerful positions, one must rely on genuine respect—respect that comes from the heart.
