The Secret Behind the Last Door🔊

Once upon a time, in the sleepy town of Windfall, tucked between royal blue waters and emerald green forests, there lied a mysterious mansion. Living in the mansion was an eccentric old man, named Mr. Murdoch, who was both loved and feared. The mansion was infamous for its one hundred doors which held a mysterious allure for the villagers. Every door beckoned to the tantalizing mystery, bewitching everyone who belonged to Windfall. However, no one knew what was behind the doors, except Murdoch himself.

It so happened that the curious young lad, Thomas, the blacksmith's son, could not resist the allure of Murdoch's mansion. So, one day, when the whole town was immersed in the grand harvest festival, little Thomas ventured towards the mansion. The mansion doors were ajar. As he entered, he was mesmerized by the intricate and finery architecture. The marble tiles, mahogany furnishings, golden chandeliers, and adorned fireplaces made him feel he was in a palace. Murdoch's power and wealth were apparent at every corner.

Thomas, full of courage, ventured further into the mansion, opening each door one by one. Most of them revealed opulent rooms filled with old, noble relics. Some doors led to more doors. Some doors even led to flights of stairs, all leading to more doors. After some hours of exploration, he reached the final door, the hundredth door. Blinking with anticipation, he placed his hand on the knob, only to hear a familiar, gruff voice.

'My mansion is open to all, but that door isn’t.' Murdoch stood behind him, his face shrouded in shadows and lines of age and wisdom. Despite the fear gnawing at him, Thomas asked, 'What's behind this door, sir?' Murdoch smiled gently at him, 'Only those pure of heart will know.'

Years rolled down, and the mystery of the last door became folklore. Thomas grew up, but the mystery had consumed him. Even after Murdoch's demise, no one dared to open the door. The mansion was turned to a museum showcasing Murdoch's achievements, but the last door was roped off, a sign reading, 'Do Not Disturb.'

One day, the now grown-up Thomas received a letter. It was Murdoch's Last Will, bequeathing the mansion to him. Thomas heart thumped, the unquenchable thirst for discovering the secret roared once more. Rushing to the mansion, he waded through the crowd murmuring in surprise, went straight to the last door, and opened it.

The room was empty, save for a large mirror standing in the middle. Thomas entered curiously, examining the mirror. Reflecting himself into it, he saw not only his physical appearance but also his journey, his acts of kindness, his compassion, and his love for the little town of Windfall. Then he understood Murdoch's words. The door only revealed what was inside a person’s heart. It was indeed a magical mirror revealing the true self.

For Thomas, the door had finally revealed its secret. He smiled at his reflection, feeling proud, knowing he was a person pure of heart. He closed the door behind him, leaving the room as it was, deciding to keep the mirror a secret. Yet, he let the people of Windfall open the door, allowing them to learn and grow from whatever they see in the mirror.

The story of the last door does more than linger in the town of Windfall. It grows, it teaches, and it guides. Each person who opens the door comes out a little wiser and nobler, contributing to the kindness and warmth of Windfall, making it truly the heart of the world.