A Woman Named Lisa and Her Angel Golden Retriever

Sometimes, the universe places us exactly where we need to be. What began as a rainy Sunday in Mill Creek turned into a powerful reminder about connection, faith, and holding space for one another.

An Unexpected Encounter

It was raining in Mill Creek on Sunday, and I had planned to start my taxes. But a break in the drizzle led me to the Mill Creek Nature Preserve for a walk. As I was sitting there, I saw a beautiful golden retriever come around the corner. At first, I couldn’t see a human with the dog, but then, about 20 feet behind him, his owner appeared. I could feel an energetic connection with the dog, as though he was drawn to me. I energetically invited him to come closer, and he did. He started walking faster towards me. His owner, Lisa, finally caught up with him as he was loving all over me. She said, “Oh, my gosh, he doesn’t usually do that!” I said, “It’s ok. I made eye contact with him and invited him in. He knew it was ok.” What struck me most were his eyes—so loving, so kind—that I can’t get them out of my mind. It was as if our souls were connected in that instant, a silent knowing that transcended words.

Lisa’s Story

I talked to Lisa for at least 15 minutes. I mostly listened. I learned that Lisa was going through a divorce after 27 years of marriage. Her husband still lived in the house, as did two of their three sons. One was in an apprenticeship program, and I felt the other had special needs, as Lisa mentioned caring for an adult son. The third son was a senior at Western in Bellingham. She shared how hard it was for everyone in the house. Her husband had been hurt on the job, and the pain medications had exacerbated his long-time drinking
problem.

At one point, Lisa said, “Oh my gosh, you are a complete stranger. I can’t believe I am telling you all this. I’m sorry.” She held back tears as she continued. I told her, “It’s okay. You need to talk. I am here for you. Go ahead.” Lisa shared her struggles and fears of possibly losing her house of 27 years. How could she ever afford it? She couldn’t refinance to buy him out and continue to live there. She worked for a non-profit, which she loved, and we talked about GRATITUDE and how much she appreciated her work.

Lisa had a strong faith in God. She is a Christian and believes her faith will get her through this. I had a citrine stone in my pocket, and I felt compelled to offer it to her. She declined, saying, “Oh, no, but thank you. God is my rock.” I shared with her that the citrine was given to me the day before while shopping for stones. I had been told it was the Happy Stone. She smiled.

Reflections from the Heart

Two things that I cannot get out of my thoughts:

First, I feel her dog was her Angel. He knew that she needed me. He knew that she needed to talk to a complete stranger about what she was going through. He knew that I could be neutral without judgment. He knew that I had somewhat different spiritual beliefs than she did. But he also knew it
would be ok. She needed me.

Second, and the one that is really tugging at my heart right now, is that two complete strangers were brought together by synchronicity, faith, God, Spirit, or the Universe – whatever you choose to call it. We had different views and beliefs, but we were kind and curious with each other. We honored each other’s differences. I held space for Lisa from a place of love. As Lisa poured out her heart, I realized that her angel wasn’t only her dog—it was this moment of connection, guided by something larger than both of us.

I am so grateful that I experienced this encounter. It’s been sitting on my heart. So much gratitude for being called to be there for her.

A Gentle Invitation

How can you hold space for someone else? How can you hold space for yourself? How can you be there for yourself? Be in your truth. It’s magical when you can be all of you and share that with others, from a place of LOVE, not fear.

When we lead with love, the universe always finds a way to bring us together.