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During the year 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for a medical school interview. I assumed to book lodging when I arrived, yet once I got there, a big convention was happening and every single budget hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.

Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, I thought maybe I could bed down in the terminal – but quickly found that airport, not like the one back home, closes all night. Unsure of how to proceed and getting a bit desperate, I boarded public transport and found myself drifting near the casino, believing I might spend the night in an establishment that stayed open 24/7. This was not ideal in the ideal condition for nailing a crucial interview the next morning, however, being a cash-strapped student, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

We could all use more folks like that woman.

Apparently, I appeared out of place since a woman noticed me walking aimlessly through the city center and asked whether I needed help. I recounted my predicament and immediately she suggested I was welcome to sleep on a spare mattress of her dormitory at the local university – a perfect solution, as that’s where the important interview was the following day. She went further by offering a meal: one stuffed baguettes she had taken home her evening job. I was able to use the bathroom and a secure location to rest for the evening.

Looking back, I can appreciate the significant risk she accepted as a young woman allowing a male stranger she’d just met stay in her room. At that time I existed within my own unawareness and not even thinking to such safety concerns. Today, as a parent, I am astonished she did that – yet deeply appreciative.

I didn’t end up go to that university, and I didn’t meet her again, but her act remains etched in my mind that incredible gesture of generosity. I hope the universe has rewarded her good deed tenfold. The world needs more individuals like that woman.