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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 book lodging upon arrival, but when I arrived, a large conference was happening and every single youth hostels and affordable lodging had no vacancies.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I thought perhaps I could just sleep at the airport – but soon learned Canberra airport, unlike Singapore’s, does not operate 24 hours. With no idea quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I caught public transport and began walking near the casino, believing it was a place to spend the night in a place that stayed open 24/7. That wouldn’t put me at my peak for acing a crucial interview the following day, yet, as a broke student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

The world needs more folks like that woman.

It seems I seemed lost because a female student saw me walking aimlessly through downtown and inquired if I was OK. I recounted the story of my accommodation crisis and without hesitation she said I could crash on the ground in her student dorm at ANU – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where my medical school interview was the following day. She even offered a meal: one stuffed baguettes she had taken home her work shift. This gave me warm shower facilities and a secure location and secure to spend the night.

Looking back, it’s clear to me the enormous leap of faith she took being a woman letting a male stranger who was a complete stranger sleep on her floor. At that time I was in my own unawareness and not even thinking about things like that. Today, as a parent, it astounds me she offered that help – yet very grateful.

I never did study at the Australian National University, and I didn’t meet that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me her amazing act of generosity. It is my wish karma has repaid her good deed tenfold. Our society requires more folks with such compassion.