🔗 Share this article

During the year 2006, I traveled to Canberra for a medical school interview. I assumed I would book a place to stay after getting there, but upon reaching the city, a big convention was in town and all the backpackers hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.

Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, I considered maybe I could spend the night at the airport – only to discover Canberra airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, closes 24 hours. Not knowing quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I boarded a city-bound bus and started wandering near the casino, thinking I could pass the night in an establishment that stayed open through the night. That wouldn’t put me at my peak for acing the admissions interview the following day, but as a broke student, I couldn’t afford.

The world needs more individuals who show such kindness.

Apparently, I appeared out of place since a young woman spotted me walking aimlessly through the city and inquired if I was OK. I recounted my predicament and without hesitation she suggested I could sleep on a spare mattress of her dormitory at ANU – an ideal turn of events, considering that was where my interview was scheduled for the next day. She even offered a meal: one filled rolls she had from her evening job. This gave me warm shower facilities and somewhere safe and safe for the evening.

Looking back, I can appreciate what a big chance she accepted as a young woman inviting a male stranger she had only just encountered sleep on her floor. In those days I existed within a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious to the potential danger. Today, as a parent, it astounds me she did that – and remain deeply appreciative.

Ultimately, I did not attending that university, and I didn’t meet her again, but her act remains etched in my mind that incredible gesture of kindness. My sincere desire is that life has repaid her act of kindness tenfold. Our society requires more individuals like that woman.