A Tale of Surprising Generosity: When a Student Allowed Me to Stay on Her Dormitory Ground
Back in the year 2006, I traveled to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. I figured to book lodging upon arrival, however once I got there, a large conference was happening and every single youth hostels and budget accommodation were fully booked.
As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, I considered maybe I could just sleep at the airport – but soon learned Canberra airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, is not open 24 hours. With no idea what my next move should be and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on a bus into town and found myself drifting near the casino, thinking I might spend the night in a place operating 24/7. That wouldn’t put me in the ideal condition for nailing an interview the next day, yet, as a student on a tight budget, luxury accommodation was impossible.
Our society requires more people like that woman.
It seems I seemed lost because a woman saw me walking aimlessly through the city center and inquired if I was OK. I shared the story of my accommodation crisis and immediately she said I was welcome to sleep on a spare mattress in her student dorm at the local university – which was perfect, considering that was where the important interview was the following day. She went further by offering me some free dinner: a leftover stuffed baguettes she had taken home her evening job. I had access to a hot shower and a protected spot and secure to spend the night.
In retrospect, I now understand the enormous leap of faith she took being a woman allowing a male stranger who was a complete stranger crash at her place. At that time I was in my own unawareness and did not consider about things like that. As a dad now, I’m amazed she took that chance – but still deeply appreciative.
I didn’t end up go to that university, and I didn’t meet that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of generosity. My sincere desire is that karma has repaid her act of kindness tenfold. We could all use more people like that woman.
