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During the year 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. I assumed to arrange lodging after getting there, but once I got there, a major event was taking place and every single youth hostels and affordable lodging had no vacancies.

Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind the possibility of spend the night at the terminal – only to discover that airport, not like the one back home, closes around the clock. Unsure of quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I boarded public transport and started wandering near the casino, reasoning I could pass those hours in an establishment that was open 24/7. This was not ideal in the best shape to succeed at a crucial interview the next morning, but as a broke student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

We could all use more individuals like that woman.

It seems I seemed out of place because a woman saw me loitering in the city center and asked whether I needed help. I shared the story of my accommodation crisis and immediately she offered I could crash on the floor in her student dorm at the Australian National University – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where the important interview would take place the next morning. She even offered some food: a leftover sandwiches she brought back her part-time job. I was able to use a hot shower and somewhere safe and safe for the evening.

In retrospect, I can appreciate what a big chance she undertook as a woman allowing a male stranger she’d just met sleep on her floor. In those days I was in a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious to the potential danger. As a dad now, it astounds me she offered that help – yet incredibly thankful.

I never did go to the Australian National University, and I lost touch with her again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of generosity. My sincere desire is that life has rewarded her good deed abundantly. The world needs more folks with such compassion.