🔗 Share this article

During 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for a medical school interview. My plan was I would book accommodation after getting there, however when I arrived, a major event was taking place and all the youth hostels and budget accommodation were fully booked.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, I considered perhaps I could just sleep at the terminal – but soon learned Canberra airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate around the clock. With no idea how to proceed and growing worried, I boarded public transport and found myself drifting in the direction of the casino, reasoning it was a place to spend those hours somewhere that was open 24/7. Admittedly, this plan in the best shape for nailing the admissions interview the next morning, however, being a cash-strapped student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

We could all use more folks like that woman.

It seems I seemed lost since a young woman noticed me walking aimlessly through the city center and wondered if I was OK. I shared my situation and right away she offered I was welcome to sleep on the floor in her student dorm at ANU – which was perfect, considering that was where my medical school interview was scheduled for the next day. She even offered some food: one of the sandwiches she had taken home her evening job. I was able to use a hot shower and a protected spot and safe to spend the night.

Looking back, I can appreciate the enormous leap of faith she accepted being a woman letting a guy she had only just encountered sleep on her floor. In those days I was in my male privilege bubble and did not consider to the potential danger. As a dad now, I am astonished she took that chance – and remain very grateful.

I never did go to the Australian National University, and I lost touch with the student afterwards, but I’ve never forgotten her selfless deed of generosity. I hope karma has returned her generosity many times over. Our society requires more individuals who show such kindness.