🔗 Share this article

During 2006, I made a trip to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. I figured I would book lodging when I arrived, but upon reaching the city, a large conference was in town and every single backpackers hostels and budget accommodation were completely sold out.

As a visitor from Singapore, I considered maybe I could bed down in the airport – but quickly found Canberra airport, unlike Singapore’s, closes around the clock. Not knowing quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I boarded a city-bound bus and found myself drifting towards the casino, believing I could pass the night somewhere that was open all night. This was not ideal in the best shape for nailing an interview the following day, yet, as a student on a tight budget, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

Our society requires more individuals with such compassion.

Apparently, I appeared confused since a female student saw me loitering in the city center and wondered if everything was alright. I shared the story of my accommodation crisis and immediately she suggested I was welcome to sleep on a spare mattress of her dormitory at ANU – a perfect solution, given that my the important interview was the following day. She even offered some food: a leftover sandwiches she had taken home 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 the enormous leap of faith she undertook as a young woman allowing a male stranger who was a complete stranger sleep on her floor. Back then I was in my male privilege bubble and not even thinking to the potential danger. Now, as a father, it astounds me she offered that help – and remain deeply appreciative.

I never did study at that university, and I lost touch with that kind stranger again, but I’ve never forgotten her amazing act of kindness. My sincere desire is that life has rewarded her good deed abundantly. The world needs more people like that woman.