An Tale of Unexpected Kindness: When a University Student Let Me Stay on Her Dormitory Floor
During the year 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. My plan was I would book lodging after getting there, but upon reaching the city, a major event was in town and all the backpackers hostels and budget accommodation were completely sold out.
As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind maybe I could just sleep at the terminal – only to discover that airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, is not open 24 hours. Unsure of quite what to do and growing worried, I caught public transport and found myself drifting towards the casino, thinking I might spend the evening somewhere that stayed open all night. That wouldn’t put me in the best shape to succeed at a crucial interview the next day, however, being a student on a tight budget, a pricey hotel was out of reach.
The world needs more folks with such compassion.
Apparently, I appeared lost since a young woman noticed me walking aimlessly through the city center and inquired if I was OK. I explained my situation and without hesitation she said I was welcome to sleep on the floor of her dormitory at the Australian National University – an ideal turn of events, considering that was where the important interview would take place the next morning. Generously, she also provided me some free dinner: one sandwiches she had from her evening job. This gave me the bathroom and somewhere safe and safe to spend the night.
With hindsight, I can appreciate the enormous leap of faith she undertook as a young woman inviting a male stranger she’d just met sleep on her floor. Back then I existed within my own unawareness and was oblivious to such safety concerns. Now, as a father, I am astonished she offered that help – but still deeply appreciative.
I didn’t end up go to that university, and I didn’t meet that kind stranger again, but I’ve never forgotten her selfless deed of generosity. My sincere desire is that the universe has returned her act of kindness tenfold. Our society requires more individuals like that woman.
