🔗 Share this article

Back in the year 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for an interview at a medical college. I assumed I would book lodging upon arrival, but when I arrived, a big convention was happening and every single backpackers hostels and budget accommodation had no vacancies.

Hailing from Singapore, I considered the possibility of bed down in the terminal – but quickly found Canberra airport, unlike Singapore’s, is not open around the clock. With no idea quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I boarded a bus into town and started wandering towards the casino, reasoning it was a place to spend those hours somewhere that was open 24/7. This was not ideal in the best shape to succeed at an interview the following day, yet, as a student on a tight budget, luxury accommodation was impossible.

The world needs more individuals like that woman.

It seems I seemed confused because a young woman saw me walking aimlessly through the city center and inquired if I was OK. I recounted my predicament and right away she suggested I could crash on a spare mattress of her dormitory at ANU – which was perfect, given that my the important interview would take place the next morning. She even offered some food: a leftover stuffed baguettes she had taken home her part-time job. I had access to warm shower facilities and a secure location to rest to spend the night.

In retrospect, I can appreciate the significant risk she took as a woman allowing a man she’d just met sleep on her floor. Back then I existed within my own unawareness and did not consider to the potential danger. As a dad now, I’m amazed she took that chance – and remain very grateful.

I didn’t end up study at that university, and I didn’t meet her again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of generosity. It is my wish the universe has returned her good deed tenfold. The world needs more individuals with such compassion.