Bill Gates, once the wealthiest individual globally, was asked if anyone surpassed him in wealth. He replied, "Indeed, there is someone wealthier than me." He then recounted a story from a time before he gained wealth and fame. While at a New York airport, he encountered a newspaper vendor. Wanting to purchase a paper, he realized he had no money and decided against it, returning the paper to the vendor.

He explained his lack of funds, and the vendor generously offered the newspaper for free. Gates accepted the offer. A few months later, he found himself at the same airport, again without change to buy a newspaper. The vendor once more offered the paper at no cost. Gates initially declined, explaining his financial situation. The vendor insisted, saying, "You can have it; I'll cover it from my profits. It won't affect me." Gates accepted the newspaper.

Nearly two decades later, after achieving fame, Gates remembered the vendor and set out to find him. After a month and a half of searching, he succeeded. He asked the vendor if he recognized him, to which the vendor replied, "Yes, you're Bill Gates." Gates then asked if the vendor recalled giving him newspapers for free.

The vendor confirmed, saying, "Yes, I remember. I gave you newspapers twice." Gates expressed his desire to repay the vendor's kindness, asking what he wished for in life, promising to fulfill it.

The vendor responded, "Sir, how do you think you can match my help by doing this?" Gates inquired further, and the vendor explained, "I helped you when I was just a poor newspaper vendor, and now you're offering help as the richest man in the world. How does your help compare to mine?"

Gates realized that day that the vendor was wealthier than he was in spirit. The vendor hadn't waited for wealth to assist others. Gates concluded that true richness lies in having a generous spirit, valuing a rich mind over abundant wealth.