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Back in the year 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an interview at a medical college. My plan was to arrange a place to stay after getting there, however once I got there, a major event was happening and all the budget hostels and budget accommodation had no vacancies.

Coming from Singapore, I thought perhaps I could spend the night at the terminal – but soon learned the local airport, not like the one back home, is not open 24 hours. With no idea how to proceed and getting a bit desperate, I boarded a city-bound bus and began walking near a gaming venue, thinking I might spend the evening in a place that stayed open through the night. This was not ideal in the ideal condition for nailing an interview the following day, yet, as a cash-strapped student, I couldn’t afford.

We could all use more folks like that woman.

It seems I seemed out of place since a female student spotted me loitering in the city center and asked if I was OK. I shared my situation and right away she suggested I could sleep on a spare mattress at her university residence at ANU – a perfect solution, given that my the important interview was the following day. She even offered some food: one of the stuffed baguettes she brought back her evening job. This gave me warm shower facilities and a secure location to rest for the evening.

With hindsight, I can appreciate what a big chance she took as a woman inviting a man who was a complete stranger stay in her room. Back then I existed within my male privilege bubble and did not consider about things like that. Now, as a father, I am astonished she offered that help – yet very grateful.

I didn’t end up attending ANU, and I didn’t meet her again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of generosity. It is my wish karma has repaid her generosity tenfold. We could all use more individuals who show such kindness.