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During the year 2006, My journey took me to the Australian capital for a medical school interview. My plan was to book a place to stay after getting there, but upon reaching the city, a big convention was in town and all the youth hostels and cheap hotels were completely sold out.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, the idea crossed my mind the possibility of just sleep at the airport – only to discover that airport, not like the one back home, does not operate 24 hours. With no idea what my next move should be and feeling increasingly desperate, I caught a bus into town and began walking towards the casino, thinking I might spend those hours in an establishment operating all night. This was not ideal in the best shape to succeed at the admissions interview the next morning, however, being a cash-strapped student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

We could all use more folks with such compassion.

It seems I seemed confused as a woman saw me walking aimlessly through the city center and asked if I was OK. I recounted my situation and right away she suggested I could crash on a spare mattress of her dormitory at the Australian National University – an ideal turn of events, considering that was where my medical school interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided a meal: one of the sandwiches she brought back her work shift. I was able to use a hot shower and a secure location and safe for the evening.

In retrospect, I now understand the significant risk she accepted being a woman allowing a guy she’d just met sleep on her floor. Back then I existed within my male privilege bubble and not even thinking to the potential danger. As a dad now, I’m amazed she offered that help – yet deeply appreciative.

I never did attending that university, and I didn’t meet that kind stranger again, but I’ve never forgotten her amazing act of human compassion. I hope the universe has repaid her good deed abundantly. We could all use more individuals with such compassion.