I remained responsible for my own choices, but I no longer felt that I had to think through every problem in complete isolation.
I checked with the station staff about the charging facilities and the latest departure information. I made sure my bag was secure and considered what I would do if the delays continued until morning.
Those were small actions, but they helped me move from worrying about every possible outcome to dealing with the situation one step at a time.
The stranger's presence had made the waiting feel less lonely, but it had also encouraged me to pay attention to the things I could still do.
I could conserve my phone battery. I could ask staff for reliable information rather than relying on rumors. I could look for a safer and more comfortable place to wait. I could contact someone when I had enough power.
None of these steps guaranteed an easy journey, but they gave me a clearer plan.
