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Back in 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an admissions interview for medical school. I figured to book lodging when I arrived, yet upon reaching the city, a big convention was taking place and all the youth hostels and budget accommodation were completely sold out.

Hailing from the city-state of Singapore, I thought perhaps I could bed down in the airport – only to discover the local airport, not like the one back home, does not operate all night. Unsure of quite what to do and growing worried, I caught public transport and began walking near a gaming venue, thinking I might spend the evening in an establishment operating 24/7. That wouldn’t put me in the best shape for nailing the admissions interview the following day, but as a broke student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

Our society requires more individuals like that woman.

Apparently, I appeared out of place because a woman spotted me loitering in the city center and wondered if I was OK. I explained the story of my accommodation crisis and immediately she offered I could sleep on the floor of her dormitory at the Australian National University – an ideal turn of events, considering that was where the important interview was the following day. Generously, she also provided me some free dinner: one stuffed baguettes she brought back her evening job. I had access to the bathroom and a secure location to rest to spend the night.

With hindsight, I can appreciate the significant risk she undertook as a woman letting a man she’d just met stay in her room. At that time I was in my own unawareness and not even thinking to the potential danger. Now, as a father, I am astonished she took that chance – and remain deeply appreciative.

Ultimately, I did not attending the Australian National University, and I never saw that kind stranger again, but her act remains etched in my mind her amazing act of kindness. It is my wish the universe has returned her generosity tenfold. The world needs more people who show such kindness.