🔗 Share this article

During the year 2006, My journey took me to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. I figured to book a place to stay after getting there, but once I got there, a big convention was taking place and all the budget hostels and budget accommodation were fully booked.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I thought perhaps I could spend the night at the terminal – only to discover that airport, not like the one back home, is not open 24 hours. Not knowing what my next move should be and growing worried, I caught a city-bound bus and started wandering in the direction of the casino, believing I could pass those hours somewhere that was open all night. This was not ideal in the ideal condition for acing an interview the following day, yet, as a student on a tight budget, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

The world needs more individuals like that woman.

It seems I seemed lost as a woman saw me wandering around the city center and asked whether I needed help. I recounted my situation and without hesitation she suggested I could crash on the ground of her dormitory at the Australian National University – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where my medical school interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided a meal: one of the stuffed baguettes she had from her part-time job. This gave me a hot shower and a secure location and secure to spend the night.

In retrospect, I now understand what a big chance she undertook being a woman letting a man she had only just encountered sleep on her floor. At that time I was in my male privilege bubble and did not consider about things like that. As a dad now, I’m amazed she offered that help – yet incredibly thankful.

Ultimately, I did not attending ANU, and I didn’t meet her again, yet her memory has stayed with me her selfless deed of kindness. It is my wish karma has rewarded her good deed abundantly. The world needs more folks who show such kindness.