From early on, I was passionate about creating a life I loved. With nothing but a huge curiosity for parts unknown, unwavering faith, and just plain good luck(!), I found myself in diverse businesses, from medical and media to the wild world of fashion.

Yet, simmering under the glossy surface was the feeling that the grit and color of life was passing me by. After a few years of intense soul-searching, I decided to banish my fears of the vast unknown, taking a flying leap into my next life chapter. I tell people that it was in that moment that my life really began.

I was free to explore the glittering nights of Hong Kong and the charming wooden tea houses of Kyoto. I could toast a New Year in London’s Annabel’s, escape to the gem-like harbor of Portofino, chase marlin in Cabo San Lucas, or swim on a whim with gentle manta rays in Bora Bora.

I first discovered Hachikō during a stop at Tokyo’s Shibuya Station. Surrounded by enthusiastic tourists, right next to the famous Shibuya Crossing (like New York City’s Times Square), Hachikō was the picture of poise and dignity. In that crowded plaza, something started to stir within me: It was that edgy excitement you feel when your life is about to shift in a cosmic way.

And then I learned his story…

Hachi was a wise old soul. Zen-like and focused, Hachi didn’t bark or play with other dogs. When frisky canines bounded up to Hachi at a park, he would stand very still as if to indulge the inconsiderate stranger.

He simply loved people and listened intently when they talked. Hachi once even stared down my crusty attorney. Rattled, he finally said, “That dog is not a dog.” Hachi himself didn’t think he was a dog.

In Hachi’s calm presence, there was perfect peace.

Invited to a fairy tale wedding in Provence, I was a guest in a gorgeous villa in the hillside village of St. Paul de Vence. My dear friend wanted me to stay just a little longer. But I really missed Hachi. The thrill I had once felt when jetting about had begun to fade.

Every experience began to melt into the next; cities and scenery collided into a colorful blur. Too much movement was dizzying, and I longed to be anchored in one place.

I wanted to consume life in slow, conscious bites. My true love was Hachi, and his gentle, loving demeanor was drawing me home.

Although I’ve met some intriguing characters throughout my travels, nobody mesmerized me the way that this curious pup could. Hachi had presence.

One day I was sorting through old music when Tony Bennett’s voice came on singing “Tender is the Night.” As it played, Hachi inched closer and closer to the speakers, laying down right in front to listen. He was crazy for Tony. He never did that for any other singer.

I had just bought a home in the middle of the South Pacific. A few months later, two companies contacted me, wanting to finance the Hachi film. But I was loving my new island life, enjoying my acre of land, exotic flowers, beautiful fruit trees and those forever sea views.

For me, paradise on earth looks and feels like freedom. A deal was struck, and everything was handled remotely, without me ever needing to leave the isolation of my tropical retreat.

We found the perfect train station in the small town of Woonsocket, Rhode Island. Our director, Lasse Hallstrom, a friend of Richard’s – was a stroke of good fortune for us. It wasn't until the night before filming that I first met Lasse. I introduced myself, and was so flustered that I offered him a seat in his own office! Lasse graciously laughed it off. From that moment on, I wasn't just a fan – I was in awe of this classy man and his immense talent.

Besides the positive energy generated by the script and the cast, being surrounded by gorgeous dogs and sweet puppies was a daily delight.

At the wrap party, a member of our union crew – a formidable looking guy – came over to me. He said, "I've worked on many sets over the years but this was something special." I’ll always remember his kind words.

Everywhere I go, I meet people who have fallen in love with Hachi: from a hidden cafe in Mallorca, to a London hotel – even during a taxi ride in Malaga. I once met a rather distinguished gentleman who cruises the world with his favorite DVD’s – including Hachi!

Seeing the enthusiasm Hachi generates is a surprise and a delight, and the main reason I’ve created this virtual community for Hachi fans. This platform is designed to introduce Hachi to new fans while also creating space to honor his life and legacy.

Today, Hachi’s compassionate message passes on every time the movie plays anywhere in the world, and through Hachi books and music that bring him closer to our hearts.