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During the year 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. I assumed to arrange accommodation upon arrival, yet when I arrived, a major event was in town and all the 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, does not operate 24 hours. Not knowing how to proceed and feeling increasingly desperate, I boarded a bus into town and started wandering in the direction of the casino, reasoning I might spend the evening in a place that was open all night. That wouldn’t put me at my peak to succeed at an interview the next morning, yet, as a cash-strapped student, I couldn’t afford.

The world needs more people like that woman.

It seems I seemed out of place because a woman noticed me loitering in the city and inquired whether I needed help. I recounted the story of my accommodation crisis and immediately she said I was welcome to sleep on the ground in her student dorm at ANU – which was perfect, as that’s where the important interview would take place the next morning. Generously, she also provided me some free dinner: one of the sandwiches she had taken home her evening job. I had access to warm shower facilities and a secure location to rest to sleep.

Looking back, it’s clear to me the enormous leap of faith she took as a young woman letting a guy 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. As a dad now, I’m amazed she took that chance – yet very grateful.

I didn’t end up go to ANU, and I didn’t meet her again, but I’ve never forgotten her selfless deed of kindness. It is my wish life has returned her good deed tenfold. Our society requires more people with such compassion.