An Story of Unexpected Generosity: The Time a Student Let Me Sleep on Her Dormitory Floor
During 2006, My journey took me to the Australian capital for an interview at a medical college. I figured to arrange accommodation when I arrived, however upon reaching the city, a big convention was in town and all the youth hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.
As a visitor from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind maybe I could bed down in the terminal – but quickly found the local airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, does not operate 24 hours. With no idea quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on a bus into town and started wandering towards a gaming venue, thinking it was a place to spend the night somewhere that was open through the night. Admittedly, this plan in the best shape for nailing the admissions interview the next morning, however, being a broke student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.
Our society requires more people who show such kindness.
I must have looked confused because a young woman saw me loitering in downtown and inquired whether I needed help. I explained the story of my accommodation crisis and right away 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 the important interview was scheduled for the next day. She went further by offering some food: a leftover filled rolls she had taken home her evening job. This gave me a hot shower and a protected spot and secure to spend the night.
With hindsight, it’s clear to me the significant risk she accepted as a young woman allowing a male stranger she’d just met crash at her place. At that time I existed within my own unawareness and not even thinking to such safety concerns. As a dad now, it astounds me she offered that help – but still incredibly thankful.
I never did attending that university, and I never saw that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me her selfless deed of kindness. I hope karma has rewarded her good deed many times over. The world needs more folks with such compassion.
