What is the significance of Tim driving to the border of Canada but not crossing?

Tom was going to be a "consciences objector" and flee to Canada. We used to call them "draft dodgers". Ironically he just stays at the boarder butt on the American side. He doesn't become a fugitive after all and, after a few days of thinking, decides to ship out.

He was going to dodge the draft, but his experiences with Elroy at the lodge give him the opportunity to think and change his mind.

THat should read "conscientious objector".