Chapter 1: Journey to Switzerland

In January, I had the opportunity to attend a tech conference in Switzerland, where I was both a speaker and a journalist working on a story related to the technology sector. The Swiss winter is known for its cold temperatures, yet it boasts breathtaking scenery. The snow-blanketed landscape serves as a paradise for photographers and offers numerous activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

On my third day at the conference, I was fortunate to secure an interview with a middle-aged woman who previously held an executive role at Amazon and is now the chief operating officer of a tech company valued at over $1 billion. This was my first encounter with her; in fact, I had only learned of her existence the day before. Despite my extensive network in the tech industry, her name was unfamiliar to me.

I was introduced to her through an email from a mutual acquaintance, who recognized my work as a tech journalist and suggested we meet. We convened at a restaurant in the picturesque town of Davos, Switzerland. Due to a lively event happening in the main area, we opted for a quieter spot at the back of the restaurant.

Once seated, she ordered two cups of fresh espresso, and from our vantage point, we were treated to a stunning view of the Swiss Alps. The ambiance was delightful, and she was approachable and easy to converse with. Our discussion lasted about an hour, yet it felt far shorter.

During our conversation, I mainly inquired about her career journey, her tenure at Amazon, and her current role in a billion-dollar company. I was genuinely impressed by her enthusiasm and intelligence regarding technology. Among the many women I met at the conference, she certainly stood out. At the end of our interview, she requested my email and Telegram contact.

The following day, I received a message from her indicating that she had a gift for me, and I would soon receive an email notification regarding it. Initially, I assumed it would be something modest. To my astonishment, the gift was valued at $10,000.

I was utterly speechless. It is an understatement to say that her kindness left me in awe. I have never received such an extravagant gift, especially from someone I had just met. I still ponder the reasons behind her generosity—perhaps she was simply being kind, or maybe she found our discussion meaningful. Regardless of the motivation, I am truly thankful for this extraordinary experience. Sometimes, life's most remarkable moments are the ones we least expect.

Chapter 2: Reflections on Generosity

As I continue to reflect on that day, I realize the profound impact of unexpected gestures. They remind us of the inherent goodness in people and the potential for meaningful connections, even with those we have never met before.