Chapter 1: Embracing New Beginnings

The journey of love is never a path chosen by others, but rather one we carve out for ourselves.

Joy awoke to a breathtaking sunrise, its orange hues a reminder of the beauty in life. She expressed her gratitude to her late husband, family, and ancestors—a ritual she had adopted nearly a year ago. Stretching, she resolved to take an afternoon nap without excuses, chuckling at her late husband's photo, "Morris, it’s a beautiful morning! I’m promising myself a nap today!"

Morris had once told her during his final moments, “I can't keep my promise, Love.” Joy, amidst tears, replied, “I forgive you, but if I can't find you later, I'll be very upset!” Just moments later, he was gone.

Though losing Morris left a profound wound, it awakened a fierce determination in Joy. She aimed to provide stability for their daughter, Millicent, leading her to pursue further education and take out a daring loan to start a design firm with colleagues. Thus began her new chapter—a tale of resilience shared between a mother and daughter.

Fast forward twenty-eight years, Millicent, now grown, had followed in her mother’s footsteps and secured a position at a notable design firm. She married at twenty-nine but divorced by thirty-three, returning to live with Joy. “Thank goodness!” Joy exclaimed, proud of her daughter yet feeling a sense of complacency creep in.

Nevertheless, when nighttime fell and the stars twinkled above, Joy would often reflect on her solitude, thinking, “It feels like just yesterday Morris was here, yet it also feels like an eternity since… well… I’ve been alone…”

Chapter 2: Navigating Midlife Challenges

As Joy approached her late fifties, she experienced the trials of menopause. Hot flashes and emotional swings became part of her daily routine, leaving her feeling somewhat adrift. Her best friend Neeta often reassured her, “It's just a phase; it will pass!” Yet, Joy remained skeptical, recognizing her tendency to overthink and feel deeply.

The thought of being stuck in a rut troubled her most. “I should be doing more,” she mused, envisioning walks with a partner, hand-in-hand. With Millicent busy pursuing her own life, Joy longed for companionship.

Finally, Joy decided it was time to welcome a dog into her life. She had long envied those who walked their dogs, dreaming of the joy it would bring her.

Cheonsa: A New Companion

A visit to an animal sanctuary stirred a whirlwind of emotions within her. As she gazed into the sad eyes of the animals, one dog caught her attention—a Bernese mountain dog. Instantly smitten, she saw in his proud gaze a reflection of her own heart after Morris’s passing.

On her journey home, she decided on a name—Cheonsa, meaning "angel" in Korean. She hoped this furry companion could fill the void she felt in her life.

The first video showcases the emotional journey behind the decision to stop pet sitting, resonating with Joy's own feelings of loss and longing.

The second video delves into the challenges of being a pet sitter and dog walker, echoing Joy’s desire for companionship and connection.

Reflecting on her new chapter, Joy found herself pondering, “We can’t manufacture a happy ending for everyone.” And though she couldn’t predict what came next, her heart remained open to the possibilities that lay ahead.

With gratitude to those who inspired her along the way, Joy embraced her journey, ready to explore the next adventure with Cheonsa by her side.