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Back in the year 2006, I traveled to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. I figured I would book a place to stay upon arrival, however when I arrived, a major event was taking place and all the budget hostels and affordable lodging had no vacancies.

Hailing from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind perhaps I could just sleep at the terminal – only to discover the local airport, not like the one back home, is not open around the clock. With no idea quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I boarded public transport and began walking near a gaming venue, reasoning I could pass the night in an establishment that was open all night. This was not ideal in the best shape to succeed at an interview the following day, however, being a broke student, I couldn’t afford.

Our society requires more people with such compassion.

I must have looked lost since a woman saw me walking aimlessly through the city center and wondered if I was OK. I recounted the story of my accommodation crisis and immediately she offered I was welcome to sleep on a spare mattress at her university residence at ANU – a perfect solution, given that my my medical school interview was scheduled for the next day. She went further by offering some food: one of the filled rolls she brought back her work shift. This gave me warm shower facilities and somewhere safe and safe for the evening.

With hindsight, I now understand what a big chance she undertook as a young woman allowing a man who was a complete stranger stay in her room. At that time I operated under a bubble of male privilege and did not consider to such safety concerns. Today, as a parent, I’m amazed she took that chance – and remain incredibly thankful.

I didn’t end up go to that university, and I didn’t meet that kind stranger again, but I’ve never forgotten that incredible gesture of kindness. It is my wish the universe has repaid her generosity abundantly. Our society requires more folks like that woman.