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Back in the year 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. I assumed to arrange a place to stay after getting there, yet upon reaching the city, a large conference was taking place and every single backpackers hostels and affordable lodging were fully booked.

Hailing from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind perhaps I could bed down in the terminal – but quickly found Canberra airport, unlike Singapore’s, does not operate 24 hours. With no idea what my next move should be and getting a bit desperate, I boarded public transport and started wandering in the direction of a gaming venue, reasoning I could pass the evening in an establishment that stayed open 24/7. This was not ideal in the best shape for nailing a crucial interview the next morning, however, being a cash-strapped student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

We could all use more folks who show such kindness.

I must have looked confused since a woman saw me walking aimlessly through the city center and wondered if everything was alright. I recounted my predicament and immediately she offered I could sleep on a spare mattress in her student dorm at the local university – a perfect solution, as that’s where the important interview was scheduled for the next day. She even offered a meal: a leftover filled rolls she brought back her work shift. This gave me the bathroom and a secure location and safe for the evening.

With hindsight, I now understand the significant risk she undertook being a woman allowing a guy who was a complete stranger crash at her place. In those days I existed within my own unawareness and did not consider about things like that. Now, as a father, it astounds me she did that – yet incredibly thankful.

I never did go to the Australian National University, and I never saw her again, but her act remains etched in my mind that incredible gesture of kindness. It is my wish the universe has rewarded her good deed many times over. Our society requires more individuals with such compassion.