Tucked by a shimmering lake and surrounded by evergreens. Over quiet walks and fireside meals, I told Sam my story. He listened gently. “Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is walk away,” he said. Buddy barked softly, as if in agreement. By the time I left, something had shifted.

Sam handed me a note with a quote: “Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes it’s the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.’” I returned home—not fully healed, but lighter. I began writing again. Then one day, I saw Sam and Buddy on a shelter’s volunteer post. I went. Buddy ran to me like I’d never left.

I started volunteering too. In helping others, I began to find myself again. Months later, Sam asked me to join him on another retreat—this time, I said yes without hesitation. Looking back, I realize Buddy wasn’t just a dog.

He was a guide in golden fur. He taught me that healing begins when we let others in, trust the moment, and keep showing up. Sometimes, all it takes is a quiet presence, an open heart, and a wagging tail to lead us home.