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Back in the year 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for an interview at a medical college. I figured I would book accommodation upon arrival, yet upon reaching the city, a big convention was in town and all the backpackers hostels and affordable lodging had no vacancies.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, I considered perhaps I could bed down in the terminal – only to discover Canberra airport, not like the one back home, does not operate around the clock. Unsure of how to proceed and feeling increasingly desperate, I boarded public transport and began walking in the direction of a gaming venue, reasoning I might spend the evening in an establishment that was open through the night. This was not ideal at my peak to succeed at the admissions interview the next morning, however, being a broke student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

We could all use more folks like that woman.

I must have looked confused as a young woman spotted me loitering in the city center and wondered whether I needed help. I recounted the story of my accommodation crisis and without hesitation she offered I was welcome to sleep on the ground in her student dorm at the Australian National University – which was perfect, as that’s where my interview was scheduled for the next day. She went further by offering a meal: a leftover sandwiches she brought back her evening job. This gave me a hot shower and a secure location and safe for the evening.

With hindsight, I can appreciate what a big chance she took as a young woman allowing a male stranger who was a complete stranger crash at her place. At that time I operated under a bubble of male privilege and not even thinking to the potential danger. Now, as a father, it astounds me she took that chance – yet very grateful.

I didn’t end up study at ANU, and I never saw that kind stranger again, but her act remains etched in my mind that incredible gesture of human compassion. It is my wish the universe has repaid her act of kindness many times over. The world needs more folks who show such kindness.