I TOOK THE TRAIN TO CLEAR MY HEAD—AND SAT

A Chance Encounter

I wasn’t supposed to be on that train. Heartbroken after a failed relationship, I nearly returned to my ex. Instead, I grabbed a random ticket, needing space to breathe. That’s when I saw him—a golden retriever, sitting upright like he belonged there.

His gaze met mine—not curious, but knowing. “He’s very social,” his owner said. But it felt like more. The dog, Buddy, padded over and rested his chin gently on my knee. “Buddy doesn’t usually do that,” the man murmured. It felt like comfort I didn’t know I needed.

An Unexpected Invitation

Before the train ride ended, Buddy’s owner, Sam, invited me to join them at a cabin near Lake Crescent. “We’re heading to a cabin near Lake Crescent for the weekend. No pressure. Just… fresh air.” I hesitated. “You barely know me.” But he smiled and said, “Buddy seems pretty sure about you.”

So I went.

A Weekend of Healing

The cabin was peaceful—trees, a quiet lake, and no expectations. Sam shared how he’d lost his wife, how Buddy had helped him heal. “He’s got a sixth sense for people who need company,” Sam said.

I opened up too—about losing myself in a toxic relationship. Sam listened and gently said, “Sometimes walking away is the bravest thing you’ll ever do.”

A New Beginning

Before I left, Sam gave me a note: “Courage doesn’t always roar… it’s the quiet voice… saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.’” Back home, I began writing again. Months later, I saw Buddy and Sam volunteering at a local shelter.

I joined them—and never stopped.

Healing came, quietly but surely. And it all started with a golden retriever who rested his head on my knee.