The Last Day of Autumn🔊

In the quiet town of Northbridge, which lay covered under the golden leaves of maple trees, was a mysterious little house. Hidden behind a canopy of scarlet vines, it stood detached from the rest of the world. Its foundation made of sturdy cedarwood, the house belonged to an old man named Mr. Kenneth, or Ken as the town's folk fondly referred to him. He was known far and wide for his love for nature and all its beings. His house resembled a sanctuary, a haven for countless local flora and fauna. A storyteller by heart, Mr. Kenneth had countless tales stored up his sleeve that he would reveal over a warm cup of freshly brewed tea.

The stories of Mr. Kenneth were not just any tales; they were a delicate weave of humanity and nature, narrating their intricate cohabitation. Each one of them held a fascinating glitter of truth, challenging the realms of reality and fiction. One story, in particular, has remained etched in the hearts of the town's children, the tale of the Last Day of Autumn.

It was the last day of Autumn, and the golden hues of leaves were gently transitioning into the bleak grays of winter. The wind, although brisk, carried a sweet melody that echoed through the woods and into the ears of its inhabitants. But, this symphony was interrupted by a shrill cry of distress that pierced through the otherwise serenity of the town, and countless pairs of eyes turned towards its source - a tiny, lonely leaf, clinging desparately to its home, a mighty maple tree.

Its siblings had bid it farewell, descending one by one, leaving it behind. The leaf was frightened. Its attempts to hold onto the sturdy branches of its mother were futile against the relentless Autumn wind. It cried out for the tree, the wind, the sun, anyone to hear its plea, but nature remained indifferent.

Just when the leaf had resigned its fate, accepting the inevitability of the season's change, Mr. Kenneth happened to pass by. Hearing the cry of the forlorn leaf, he was touched. Feelings of empathy surged within him. He gently reached out and said to the leaf, 'You have lived a beautiful life. Now, it's time for you to return to the earth, contribute to its richness so that new life may sprout when spring arrives. There's no need to be afraid.'

The words of comfort eased the leaf's worries. With a final gust of wind, it let go, embarking upon its journey towards the ground. As it descended, it seemed to dance in the rhythm, merging with the symphony it once feared.

With tears sparkling in his eyes, Mr. Kenneth continued his walk, leaving behind the solitary maple tree and its last off-spring. He found solace in having eased one life's transition into another form. He marvelled at the beautiful yet ruthless cycle of nature.

This fable became a regular part of Mr. Kenneth's storytelling repertoire. A tale that spoke about the fleeting nature of life and the beauty in end and renewal. It taught the children of Northbridge not to fear change but to embrace it, for it was but a stepping stone to a new beginning.