I was running away from my broken heart when Buddy found me. Exhausted and empty, I’d boarded a train with no plan – until a golden retriever locked eyes with me across the platform and changed everything.
Buddy’s owner Sam joked that his dog never approached strangers, yet there he was, leaning against me like we were old friends. When they invited me to their cabin retreat, I surprised myself by saying yes.
Those quiet days in the woods gave me space to breathe again. Buddy seemed to know exactly when I needed comfort, resting his head on my lap during my darkest moments. Sam’s quiet companionship reminded me what healthy connection felt like.
Back in the city, I followed Buddy’s example by volunteering at the shelter. Caring for animals helped me rediscover my own worth. That random train ride didn’t just take me away from my pain – it led me toward healing, one paw print at a time.
