I TOOK THE TRAIN TO CLEAR MY HEAD—AND SAT ACROSS FROM A DOG WHO KNEW TOO MUCH

I wasn’t supposed to be on that train. After a night of crying outside my ex’s apartment, I booked a last-minute ticket to escape the regret and heartbreak. Onboard, a golden retriever named Buddy caught my eye, sitting confidently with his paw on the table. His owner, Sam, was relaxed, but Buddy’s intense gaze felt like he saw right through me. When he rested his chin on my leg, I poured out my story of betrayal and guilt. At the station, Sam invited me to their cabin by Lake Crescent. Against logic, I agreed.

The weekend was healing—Lake Crescent’s beauty, cozy fires, and Sam’s kindness eased my pain. I opened up about my toxic relationship, and Sam shared his own loss. His words, “Sometimes walking away is the bravest thing,” resonated deeply. Buddy seemed to agree. We hiked, cooked, and laughed, rekindling dreams I’d buried. Sam gave me a quote about courage, a quiet reminder to keep going.

Back home, I started writing again and volunteered at a shelter where Sam and Buddy helped others heal. Months later, I joined them on another trip, trusting my instincts. Buddy wasn’t just a dog—he was a guide, showing me how to find beauty in life’s broken pieces.