🔗 Share this article

Back in 2006, My journey took me to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. I assumed to arrange accommodation when I arrived, however when I arrived, a big convention was in town and every single youth hostels and budget accommodation had no vacancies.

As a visitor from Singapore, I thought the possibility of just sleep at the airport – but soon learned that airport, unlike Singapore’s, does not operate 24 hours. Not knowing how to proceed and getting a bit desperate, I hopped on a bus into town and started wandering near the casino, thinking it was a place to spend the night in a place operating through the night. That wouldn’t put me at my peak to succeed at the admissions interview the next day, yet, as a student on a tight budget, luxury accommodation was impossible.

We could all use more folks who show such kindness.

I must have looked confused because a woman noticed me wandering around the city and inquired whether I needed help. I explained the story of my accommodation crisis and without hesitation she said I could sleep on the floor in her student dorm at ANU – a perfect solution, given that my my medical school interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided some food: a leftover filled rolls she had taken home her work shift. I was able to use the bathroom and somewhere safe and secure to spend the night.

Looking back, I can appreciate what a big chance she accepted being a woman letting a male stranger who was a complete stranger sleep on her floor. At that time I existed within a bubble of male privilege and not even thinking about things like that. Now, as a father, I am astonished she took that chance – but still incredibly thankful.

Ultimately, I did not go to that university, and I didn’t meet the student afterwards, but her act remains etched in my mind her amazing act of kindness. It is my wish life has repaid her act of kindness many times over. Our society requires more folks with such compassion.