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During 2006, I made a trip to the Australian capital for an interview at a medical college. My plan was I would book lodging after getting there, but when I arrived, a large conference was happening and every single backpackers hostels and budget accommodation were completely sold out.

As a visitor from Singapore, I considered perhaps I could bed down in the airport – but soon learned the local airport, unlike Singapore’s, closes around the clock. Unsure of quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I boarded a city-bound bus and started wandering in the direction of a gaming venue, reasoning I could pass those hours in an establishment that stayed open 24/7. That wouldn’t put me at my peak for acing an interview the next morning, however, being a student on a tight budget, luxury accommodation was impossible.

Our society requires more folks like that woman.

It seems I seemed confused as a female student noticed me wandering around downtown and inquired if I was OK. I explained the story of my accommodation crisis and without hesitation she suggested I could crash on the floor of her dormitory at the local university – which was perfect, considering that was where my interview would take place the next morning. Generously, she also provided some food: one of the stuffed baguettes she brought back her part-time job. This gave me a hot shower and a secure location and safe for the evening.

In retrospect, I now understand what a big chance she undertook as a woman allowing a guy who was a complete stranger crash at her place. Back then I existed within a bubble of male privilege and was oblivious to the potential danger. Now, as a father, it astounds me she took that chance – and remain incredibly thankful.

Ultimately, I did not attending that university, and I didn’t meet that kind stranger again, but I’ve never forgotten her amazing act of generosity. I hope the universe has returned her generosity tenfold. Our society requires more folks with such compassion.