Parking Space #4: The Lesson a Parking Ticket Taught Me | by Mohsen Nouri | Nov, 2025
Parking Space #4: The Lesson a Parking Ticket Taught Me
It was 11 PM, and heavy rain poured down as I hurriedly guided my car toward the multi-story parking garage. My meeting had run late, and all I wanted was to get home.
Mr. Rezaei, the parking attendant, stood under the shelter, making space for me with a wave. The rain had washed over his face, yet his usual smile remained intact.
“Running late again, Doctor?” he asked, handing me the parking slip.
The Tension
That same night, as I was about to drive out of the garage, I left my briefcase on the roof of the car and forgot about it. Inside that bag, along with my personal items, were the confidential blueprints for our company’s new project.
The next morning, I realized my bag was missing. I searched the entire parking area, but it was nowhere to be found.
I found Mr. Rezaei at the control desk. Before I could say a word, he pulled my bag from his cabin and said, “Last night, I saw you left it on your car and forgot. I waited for you to return, but it seemed you were in a hurry, so I kept it safe for you.”
The Turning Point
When I opened the bag, everything was in its place—even the pen I was always misplacing. I tried to offer him some money, but he raised his hand and said, “We have more dignity than that, Doctor.”
It was in that moment I understood how Mr. Rezaei, with his modest salary, had maintained such grace and integrity. I later learned his son was ill, and every night after his shift, he went straight to the hospital. Yet, he had never complained or told anyone.
The Resolution
That day, I decided our company would treat its employees differently. I offered Mr. Rezaei a position as the head of our security team. Today, three years later, he is one of the most trusted members of our organization.
Moral of the Story
Sometimes, the most profound life lessons come from those you least expect. Honor and integrity never go out of style.
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