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Back in 2006, I traveled to Canberra for an admissions interview for medical school. I figured to book lodging upon arrival, yet upon reaching the city, a major event was in town and every single youth hostels and affordable lodging were completely sold out.

As a visitor from the city-state of Singapore, I considered maybe I could bed down in the terminal – only to discover Canberra airport, unlike Singapore’s, is not open around the clock. Not knowing quite what to do and growing worried, I boarded a city-bound bus and began walking towards a gaming venue, reasoning I might spend the night somewhere operating through the night. That wouldn’t put me at my peak for acing an interview the following day, but as a student on a tight budget, a pricey hotel was out of reach.

The world needs more people who show such kindness.

Apparently, I appeared lost as a young woman noticed me loitering in downtown and wondered whether I needed help. I explained my predicament and right away she offered I was welcome to sleep on the ground at her university residence at the Australian National University – an ideal turn of events, considering that was where my medical school interview was the following day. Generously, she also provided some food: one sandwiches she had taken home her work shift. This gave me a hot shower and a secure location and safe for the evening.

Looking back, it’s clear to me the enormous leap of faith she undertook as a young woman letting a male stranger she’d just met crash at her place. At that time I operated under my male privilege bubble and was oblivious about things like that. As a dad now, I’m amazed she took that chance – yet very grateful.

Ultimately, I did not study at ANU, and I never saw the student afterwards, yet her memory has stayed with me her selfless deed of generosity. It is my wish karma has rewarded her act of kindness abundantly. Our society requires more individuals with such compassion.