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During 2006, I made a trip to Canberra for a medical school interview. My plan was I would book a place to stay after getting there, however when I arrived, a large conference was taking place and every single youth hostels and affordable lodging were fully booked.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I thought the possibility of just sleep at the airport – but quickly found the local airport, not like the one back home, does not operate around the clock. Not knowing how to proceed and getting a bit desperate, I boarded a bus into town and began walking in the direction of the casino, reasoning it was a place to spend the evening in a place that was open through the night. This was not ideal in the ideal condition for acing a crucial interview the next day, however, being a cash-strapped student, I couldn’t afford.

Our society requires more people like that woman.

I must have looked lost because a woman saw me loitering in downtown and inquired whether I needed help. I shared the story of my accommodation crisis and immediately she offered I could crash on the floor of her dormitory at the local university – an ideal turn of events, given that my the important interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided some food: one sandwiches she brought back her part-time job. This gave me a hot shower and a protected spot to rest to sleep.

Looking back, it’s clear to me the enormous leap of faith she took as a woman allowing a man who was a complete stranger stay in her room. Back then I operated under my own unawareness and not even thinking to the potential danger. As a dad now, I am astonished she did that – yet incredibly thankful.

I never did go to ANU, and I lost touch with her again, but her act remains etched in my mind her amazing act of generosity. My sincere desire is that life has rewarded her act of kindness tenfold. The world needs more folks who show such kindness.