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Back in the year 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. I assumed to arrange a place to stay after getting there, however upon reaching the city, a major event was taking place and all the backpackers hostels and budget accommodation had no vacancies.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, I thought perhaps I could just sleep at the terminal – only to discover the local airport, not like the one back home, does not operate all night. Not knowing what my next move should be and getting a bit desperate, I boarded public transport and found myself drifting in the direction of the casino, reasoning I might spend the evening in a place operating all night. This was not ideal in the ideal condition for nailing an interview the following day, yet, as a broke student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

The world needs more folks who show such kindness.

It seems I seemed out of place as a woman saw me walking aimlessly through the city center and asked if everything was alright. I recounted the story of my accommodation crisis and without hesitation she said I was welcome to sleep on the ground of her dormitory at the Australian National University – which was perfect, given that my the important interview would take place the next morning. Generously, she also provided some food: a leftover filled rolls she had taken home her work shift. I was able to use a hot shower and a protected spot and safe to sleep.

In retrospect, I can appreciate the significant risk she took as a woman letting a man she’d just met sleep on her floor. In those days I was in my male privilege bubble and was oblivious about things like that. Now, as a father, I’m amazed she did that – yet very grateful.

I never did 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 kindness. I hope life has returned her good deed abundantly. We could all use more folks with such compassion.