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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 after getting there, yet upon reaching the city, a major event was taking place and every single backpackers hostels and cheap hotels were completely sold out.

Hailing from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind maybe I could spend the night at the terminal – but quickly found that airport, not like the one back home, closes around the clock. With no idea quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I hopped on public transport and started wandering towards the casino, believing it was a place to spend the evening in a place that stayed open 24/7. That wouldn’t put me in the best shape for nailing an interview the next day, however, being a broke student, I couldn’t afford.

We could all use more folks with such compassion.

I must have looked out of place because a female student spotted me loitering in downtown and asked if everything was alright. I shared the story of my accommodation crisis and immediately she suggested I could crash on the floor in her student dorm at the Australian National University – which was perfect, given that my my interview would take place the next morning. She even offered a meal: a leftover filled rolls she brought back her evening job. I was able to use the bathroom and a protected spot to rest to spend the night.

Looking back, I now understand the enormous leap of faith she undertook as a young woman letting a guy she had only just encountered stay in her room. In those days I was in my male privilege bubble and did not consider about things like that. As a dad now, it astounds me she took that chance – but still deeply appreciative.

I didn’t end up study at the Australian National University, and I didn’t meet that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of kindness. I hope karma has returned her good deed tenfold. Our society requires more folks like that woman.