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Back in the year 2006, I made a trip to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. I assumed to book accommodation when I arrived, but once I got there, a major event was happening and all the backpackers hostels and budget accommodation were fully booked.

As a visitor from Singapore, I considered the possibility of spend the night at the airport – but quickly found the local airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, closes 24 hours. Not knowing how to proceed and feeling increasingly desperate, I caught public transport and started wandering in the direction of the casino, thinking it was a place to spend those hours in a place that stayed open through the night. Admittedly, this plan in the ideal condition for nailing an interview the following day, however, being a cash-strapped student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

Our society requires more folks who show such kindness.

Apparently, I appeared out of place as a young woman saw me loitering in downtown and inquired whether I needed help. I recounted the story of my accommodation crisis and right away she said I was welcome to sleep on the ground in her student dorm at the Australian National University – which was perfect, as that’s where my medical school interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided some food: one of the stuffed baguettes she had from her evening job. This gave me warm shower facilities and a secure location and safe to spend the night.

Looking back, it’s clear to me the significant risk she took being a woman letting a male stranger who was a complete stranger stay in her room. At that time I operated under my own unawareness and was oblivious to the potential danger. Now, as a father, I am astonished she took that chance – yet incredibly thankful.

Ultimately, I did not attending the Australian National University, and I lost touch with that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me her amazing act of generosity. My sincere desire is that karma has returned her good deed many times over. The world needs more folks with such compassion.