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Back in the year 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for a medical school interview. I figured I would book a place to stay after getting there, yet once I got there, a big convention was taking place and every single youth hostels and budget accommodation were completely sold out.

As a visitor from Singapore, I considered maybe I could spend the night at the terminal – but quickly found the local airport, not like the one back home, is not open around the clock. Unsure of quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I caught a bus into town and found myself drifting in the direction of the casino, reasoning I could pass the night somewhere that was open through the night. Admittedly, this plan at my peak to succeed at a crucial interview the next morning, however, being a student on a tight budget, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

The world needs more individuals who show such kindness.

Apparently, I appeared out of place as a young woman spotted me wandering around downtown and asked if everything was alright. I shared my situation and immediately she offered I could crash on a spare mattress at her university residence at the Australian National University – an ideal turn of events, as that’s where the important interview was scheduled for the next day. She went further by offering some food: one filled rolls she brought back her evening job. I was able to use warm shower facilities and somewhere safe and safe for the evening.

In retrospect, it’s clear to me what a big chance she accepted being a woman inviting a male stranger she’d just met crash at her place. Back then I existed within my male privilege bubble and did not consider about things like that. As a dad now, I am astonished she offered that help – but still deeply appreciative.

I never did go to that university, and I didn’t meet her again, but her act remains etched in my mind her amazing act of human compassion. I hope the universe has repaid her generosity tenfold. The world needs more people with such compassion.