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Back in the year 2006, My journey took me to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. I figured to arrange lodging when I arrived, however when I arrived, a big convention was happening and all the youth hostels and cheap hotels were fully booked.

Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, I considered maybe I could bed down in the terminal – but soon learned Canberra airport, not like the one back home, is not open around the clock. With no idea quite what to do and growing worried, I caught a city-bound bus and began walking towards the casino, thinking it was a place to spend those hours somewhere that was open through the night. Admittedly, this plan in the ideal condition to succeed at a crucial interview the following day, but as a cash-strapped student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

Our society requires more folks like that woman.

It seems I seemed confused because a woman noticed me loitering in the city and inquired whether I needed help. I recounted my situation and immediately she suggested I could crash on the floor of her dormitory at the local university – which was perfect, as that’s where the important interview would take place the next morning. She went further by offering some food: one stuffed baguettes she had from her part-time job. I was able to use warm shower facilities and somewhere safe and safe to sleep.

With hindsight, I now understand the enormous leap of faith she took being a woman letting a man she had only just encountered crash at her place. At that time I operated under my male privilege bubble and was oblivious about things like that. Now, as a father, it astounds me she offered that help – and remain deeply appreciative.

I never did study at ANU, and I lost touch with that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of human compassion. My sincere desire is that the universe has repaid her generosity tenfold. Our society requires more folks who show such kindness.