That massive Midwest storm did more than move an NFL game from Minneapolis to Detroit. It also provided a vivid example of how to treat people.

This storm treated everyone the same. It inconvenienced people regardless of age, status or wealth. Not even NFL players, with their money and fame, could escape the impact.

How many coaches treat their players with that kind if equality? How many of them make their stars the center of their universe, while leaving reserve players as afterthoughts?

Advice columnist Ann Landers once said, “Keep in mind that the true measure of an individual is how he treats a person who can do him absolutely no good.”

This equality has nothing to do with dealing with different personalities, or with motivating people in different ways. No, this equality is something far more basic, and involves appreciating the value and dignity of each person.

Perhaps you’ve heard the story of a question on the final exam at nursing school. It went like this: What is the name of the person who cleans the floors at the end of the day?

This question was designed to underscore the attitude that nurses — and others — should take when dealing with others.

“The deepest principle in human nature is the craving to be appreciated.” said Williams James.

The Midwest storm treated everyone alike, whether the Giants or the Vikings or the people who cleaned the Metrodome roof. Leaders would do well to follow the example.