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Back in 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for a medical school interview. I figured to arrange a place to stay upon arrival, yet when I arrived, a major event was in town and every single youth hostels and cheap hotels were completely sold out.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, I thought maybe I could bed down in the terminal – only to discover that airport, unlike Singapore’s, does not operate all night. Not knowing quite what to do and growing worried, I boarded a bus into town and began walking near a gaming venue, thinking I could pass those hours somewhere that stayed open 24/7. Admittedly, this plan in the best shape for acing an interview the next day, however, being a student on a tight budget, I couldn’t afford.

We could all use more people like that woman.

It seems I seemed out of place as a woman saw me wandering around downtown and inquired whether I needed help. I explained the story of my accommodation crisis and immediately she said I could sleep on the ground of her dormitory at the Australian National University – a perfect solution, considering that was where my interview was scheduled for the next day. She even offered a meal: one of the sandwiches she had taken home her part-time job. I was able to use a hot shower and somewhere safe and safe for the evening.

In retrospect, I can appreciate the significant risk she took as a woman inviting a man who was a complete stranger stay in her room. In those days I operated under my own unawareness and did not consider about things like that. Today, as a parent, it astounds me she offered that help – but still deeply appreciative.

Ultimately, I did not attending the Australian National University, and I never saw her again, but I’ve never forgotten her amazing act of generosity. I hope life has repaid her good deed tenfold. We could all use more folks like that woman.