During the year 2006, I made a trip to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. I assumed to arrange lodging when I arrived, but once I got there, a big convention was taking place and every single backpackers hostels and cheap hotels had no vacancies.
Coming from Singapore, I thought perhaps I could bed down in the airport – but soon learned Canberra airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, is not open 24 hours. Unsure of what my next move should be and getting a bit desperate, I boarded a bus into town and found myself drifting towards a gaming venue, thinking I could pass the night in an establishment operating all night. Admittedly, this plan in the best shape to succeed at a crucial interview the following day, but as a broke student, I couldn’t afford.
The world needs more individuals who show such kindness.
Apparently, I appeared confused as a female student noticed me walking aimlessly through the city center and wondered if everything was alright. I shared the story of my accommodation crisis and immediately she said I could sleep on a spare mattress in her student dorm at the Australian National University – an ideal turn of events, considering that was where my interview would take place the next morning. She even offered a meal: one of the stuffed baguettes she had from her part-time job. I had access to warm shower facilities and a protected spot and secure for the evening.
With hindsight, it’s clear to me the significant risk she took being a woman inviting a man she’d just met crash at her place. At that time I operated under a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious to the potential danger. Today, as a parent, I’m amazed she offered that help – yet incredibly thankful.
Ultimately, I did not go to that university, and I lost touch with her again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of generosity. It is my wish karma has repaid her act of kindness many times over. The world needs more folks who show such kindness.
