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Back in 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for a medical school interview. I assumed to arrange a place to stay when I arrived, but upon reaching the city, a big convention was happening and all the budget hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.

Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, I thought the possibility of just sleep at the airport – but soon learned the local airport, not like the one back home, is not open all night. Unsure of quite what to do and getting a bit desperate, I hopped on a bus into town and found myself drifting in the direction of a gaming venue, reasoning I could pass the evening in a place that stayed open all night. Admittedly, this plan at my peak for nailing the admissions interview the following day, however, being a student on a tight budget, luxury accommodation was impossible.

Our society requires more folks like that woman.

Apparently, I appeared confused because a female student noticed me wandering around the city and inquired whether I needed help. I recounted my situation and immediately she offered I could crash on a spare mattress in her student dorm at ANU – which was perfect, given that my the important interview would take place the next morning. She even offered some food: one of the sandwiches she had taken home her work shift. I had access to a hot shower and somewhere safe and safe to spend the night.

In retrospect, I can appreciate the significant risk she took being a woman letting a guy she’d just met sleep on her floor. In those days I existed within my own unawareness and was oblivious to the potential danger. Today, as a parent, it astounds me she took that chance – yet deeply appreciative.

Ultimately, I did not go to that university, and I never saw the student afterwards, yet her memory has stayed with me her amazing act of human compassion. My sincere desire is that life has rewarded her act of kindness abundantly. Our society requires more folks who show such kindness.