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During 2006, I traveled to the Australian capital for an interview at a medical college. I figured to book a place to stay when I arrived, however when I arrived, a big convention was taking place and all the budget hostels and cheap hotels were fully booked.

As a visitor from Singapore, I thought perhaps I could spend the night at the airport – but quickly found that airport, in contrast to Changi Airport, closes all night. Not knowing how to proceed and growing worried, I hopped on a city-bound bus and started wandering in the direction of a gaming venue, believing I could pass the night somewhere operating through the night. This was not ideal in the best shape for nailing an interview the following day, however, being a broke student, luxury accommodation was impossible.

Our society requires more individuals like that woman.

Apparently, I appeared out of place because a woman saw me walking aimlessly through downtown and asked if everything was alright. I shared my situation and immediately she said I could crash on the ground in her student dorm at ANU – an ideal turn of events, considering that was where my interview was the following day. She went further by offering a meal: one of the sandwiches she had from her evening job. I was able to use a hot shower and a protected spot and secure for the evening.

Looking back, I now understand the significant risk she undertook as a woman inviting a guy she’d just met crash at her place. At that time I existed within my own unawareness and was oblivious about things like that. Today, as a parent, I’m amazed she did that – yet very grateful.

I never did go to ANU, and I didn’t meet that kind stranger again, yet her memory has stayed with me that incredible gesture of generosity. It is my wish karma has returned her act of kindness abundantly. Our society requires more individuals with such compassion.