Living Life with an Open Heart Can Unveil Unexpected Experiences

by Joanie

I recently returned from an experience I never anticipated being part of and one I will never, ever forget! 

50 veterans. 1 flight to Washington, DC. 12 monuments + memorials. 49 friends + family members + me. 

And it’s all because 17 years ago I met a stranger who continues to be part of my life today.  

In Seattle, there is a small city lake, called Green Lake. Monday through Friday, Phil would walk the 2.8-mile loop clockwise. I, on the other hand, would make my daily journey counterclockwise. A delightfully cute golden retriever, Jake, by my side. 

It started out as a simple, “Hello – may I give your dog a cookie?”  “Yes, of course”, I would reply. This became a routine, but it was never routine for Jake. My sweet pup would anticipate meeting Phil and his treats every day. He would see Phil from hundreds of feet away and run as if it was the best day ever. 

The years passed and Phil and I became friends. In fact, he became more than a friend. Phil became part of our family, joining us at Thanksgiving and Christmas and other events throughout the year. 

 Then two weekends ago I found myself on a trip to Washington, DC, with Puget Sound Honor Flight. It was one of the most meaningful trips I have ever taken. (If you don’t know about Honor Flight, click on the link and learn more.)

Experiencing those few days with Phil was beautiful. The organization made it a special event for all the vets and recognized them for their service. These were veterans who had served in Vietnam, Korea and Afghanistan.

As we were on the plane flying home to Seattle, Phil told me that the first time he was thanked for his service was a couple of years ago by a mutual friend. Now he has been thanked and honored appropriately and, together, both of our lives have been changed. And it’s all because two people opened their hearts in a chance meeting at a park, that turned into a lifelong friendship.