🔗 Share this article

During 2006, My journey took me to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. My plan was I would book accommodation when I arrived, however when I arrived, a big convention was happening and all the youth hostels and cheap hotels were fully booked.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I considered perhaps I could just sleep at the terminal – but quickly found the local airport, not like the one back home, does not operate around the clock. Not knowing what my next move should be and getting a bit desperate, I boarded a bus into town and found myself drifting in the direction of the casino, believing I could pass the night somewhere that stayed open all night. Admittedly, this plan at my peak to succeed at an interview the next day, but as a cash-strapped student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

The world needs more people who show such kindness.

Apparently, I appeared out of place as a young woman noticed me walking aimlessly through the city center and wondered if I was OK. I shared the story of my accommodation crisis and immediately she suggested I could sleep on the floor at her university residence at the Australian National University – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where my medical school interview was the following day. She went further by offering some food: a leftover sandwiches she brought back her evening job. I had access to a hot shower and a protected spot and safe to spend the night.

With hindsight, I now understand what a big chance she took as a woman inviting a male stranger she’d just met stay in her room. Back then I existed within a bubble of male privilege and did not consider about things like that. Today, as a parent, I am astonished she did that – and remain very grateful.

I didn’t end up attending the Australian National University, and I didn’t meet her again, but I’ve never forgotten her amazing act of human compassion. I hope karma has rewarded her generosity abundantly. We could all use more folks with such compassion.