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Back in the year 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. I figured to arrange a place to stay after getting there, but when I arrived, a large conference was happening and every single youth hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.

Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, I thought the possibility of spend the night at the airport – but soon learned the local airport, not like the one back home, is not open 24 hours. Unsure of quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I boarded a city-bound bus and started wandering towards a gaming venue, reasoning I might spend the night somewhere operating all night. That wouldn’t put me at my peak for acing a crucial interview the next morning, yet, as a cash-strapped student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

Our society requires more folks who show such kindness.

It seems I seemed confused as a young woman spotted me walking aimlessly through the city center and inquired if I was OK. I explained the story of my accommodation crisis and right away she suggested I could sleep on the ground of her dormitory at the local university – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where my interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided some food: one stuffed baguettes she brought back her work shift. This gave me warm shower facilities and a protected spot and secure to spend the night.

In retrospect, I now understand the enormous leap of faith she undertook as a woman letting a male stranger who was a complete stranger sleep on her floor. At that time I operated under my own unawareness and not even thinking about things like that. Now, as a father, I am astonished she did that – but still very grateful.

I never did go to that university, and I never saw the student afterwards, yet her memory has stayed with me her amazing act of human compassion. I hope life has rewarded her generosity many times over. The world needs more folks like that woman.