I was never supposed to be on that train. After a painful night outside my ex’s apartment, I bought a random ticket just to escape. That’s when I met Buddy—a calm golden retriever who walked up and rested his head on my leg. His owner, Sam, was surprised. “He never does that.” But Buddy stayed, like he knew I was breaking.
I found myself quietly telling Buddy everything—my heartbreak, my shame, how lost I felt. Sam then invited me to a cabin by Lake Crescent. “No pressure,” he said. “Buddy seems to like you.” Maybe it was exhaustion, maybe it was the dog’s quiet comfort—but I said yes.
The weekend was peaceful. I opened up to Sam, who listened with kindness. “Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is walk away,” he told me. When I left, I felt lighter. He handed me a note: “Courage doesn’t always roar… Sometimes it’s the quiet voice saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.’”
Back home, I began to heal. I started writing again. Then one day, I saw Sam and Buddy on a shelter’s volunteer post. I went. Buddy ran to me like no time had passed. I started volunteering too—and in helping others, I found myself again.
Months later, Sam invited me on another trip. This time, I said yes without hesitation. Looking back, I know Buddy wasn’t just a dog—he was a quiet guide who reminded me that healing starts when we let love in, one moment at a time.