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Back in 2006, I made a trip to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. I figured to arrange accommodation upon arrival, yet once I got there, a big convention was happening and all the budget hostels and affordable lodging were fully booked.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I thought the possibility of just sleep at the terminal – only to discover the local airport, not like the one back home, closes around the clock. Not knowing how to proceed and feeling increasingly desperate, I hopped on a city-bound bus and began walking near a gaming venue, believing it was a place to spend the night in an establishment operating 24/7. Admittedly, this plan at my peak for nailing a crucial interview the next morning, yet, as a student on a tight budget, I couldn’t afford.

Our society requires more individuals with such compassion.

It seems I seemed out of place because a woman spotted me walking aimlessly through the city and wondered whether I needed help. I explained my situation and right away she offered I could crash on a spare mattress of her dormitory at the Australian National University – an ideal turn of events, given that my the important interview would take place the next morning. She even offered a meal: a leftover stuffed baguettes she had taken home her work shift. I was able to use warm shower facilities and a protected spot and safe for the evening.

Looking back, I now understand what a big chance she took being a woman inviting a male stranger she had only just encountered sleep on her floor. At that time I was in my own unawareness and was oblivious to the potential danger. Now, as a father, it astounds me she offered that help – but still very grateful.

Ultimately, I did not study at the Australian National University, and I never saw that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of generosity. My sincere desire is that karma has rewarded her generosity tenfold. Our society requires more individuals with such compassion.