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During the year 2006, I traveled to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. I assumed I would book lodging upon arrival, yet upon reaching the city, a large conference was happening and all the youth hostels and budget accommodation were completely sold out.

Coming from the city-state of Singapore, I thought the possibility of bed down in the terminal – but soon learned the local airport, unlike Singapore’s, does not operate around the clock. With no idea quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I caught a city-bound bus and began walking near the casino, reasoning I could pass the evening in a place operating through the night. That wouldn’t put me in the ideal condition 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 people like that woman.

Apparently, I appeared lost since a young woman noticed me walking aimlessly through the city and inquired if I was OK. I explained my situation and without hesitation she suggested I could sleep on the ground in her student dorm at the Australian National University – a perfect solution, considering that was where my interview was scheduled for the next day. Generously, she also provided some food: one of the filled rolls she had from her work shift. I was able to use warm shower facilities and a secure location and secure for the evening.

With hindsight, I now understand the significant risk she undertook as a young woman inviting a guy who was a complete stranger crash at her place. At that time I operated under my male privilege bubble and did not consider to such safety concerns. As a dad now, it astounds me she did that – and remain deeply appreciative.

I never did study at ANU, and I didn’t meet her again, yet her memory has stayed with me her amazing act of kindness. It is my wish karma has rewarded her good deed many times over. The world needs more individuals like that woman.