Back in the year 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. I assumed I would book lodging when I arrived, however when I arrived, a large conference was happening and every single budget hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.
Hailing from Singapore, I thought maybe I could just sleep at the terminal – but soon learned the local airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate 24 hours. With no idea what my next move should be and getting a bit desperate, I hopped on a bus into town and began walking near the casino, believing I could pass the night in an establishment that stayed open through the night. This was not ideal at my peak to succeed at the admissions interview the next morning, but as a broke student, luxury accommodation was impossible.
Our society requires more folks who show such kindness.
Apparently, I appeared confused since a woman saw me wandering around the city center and wondered if I was OK. I recounted my situation and immediately she said I could sleep on the ground in her student dorm at ANU – a perfect solution, given that my the important interview was the following day. Generously, she also provided some food: one filled rolls she had taken home her part-time job. I was able to use the bathroom and a protected spot and safe to sleep.
In retrospect, I can appreciate the significant risk she undertook as a young woman allowing a guy she’d just met sleep on her floor. At that time I was in my own unawareness and not even thinking to the potential danger. Now, as a father, it astounds me she took that chance – and remain deeply appreciative.
I never did go to the Australian National University, and I lost touch with that kind stranger again, but her act remains etched in my mind her amazing act of kindness. I hope life has rewarded her generosity abundantly. Our society requires more individuals with such compassion.
