Keys Into Acceptance

By: G

Graphics by: Marcus D. Agustin

Staring at the newly lodged door in my room, my curiosity grows each passing second. I can't recall this being here at all; it stands out from all the interiors yet flashes a calming color. I looked around, confused, and picked up an ornate key on the floor.

The wooden boards creaked as I approached the doorknob, I slowly tried to open it with the key. It didn’t work.  Frustration quickly arises within me, staring at this mysterious door. I walked away after investigating it and stepped into the world with a strange heaviness weighing me down.

I passed by a friend in the hallway, dangling the same detailed key in his lace. I pulled him aside, filled with questions that I had. The words left his mouth like it was whispered underwater, he spoke of it like a puzzle different for each person.

My home felt heavy as soon as I saw that door again, I was drawn. It was pulling me into a trance, pleading to unlock its secrets. Each try ended with the same results; nothing was possible at this point. I pressed on my friend for more answers, yet nothing I tried to do worked. Time passed and I still don’t understand the door’s pull over me.

I was certain, confident, that I could force this door open, but each trial chipped away every hope in my body. Days passed with the door quietly existing even though trying to ignore the door comes with the feeling of emptiness.

Everything felt pointless as it wouldn't change, I’ve learned to accept its existence. The keys still don’t unlock anything. Still, I stared at the door before going out again. As I try to sleep tonight, it pulls me differently. The door was calling me–not like a burden, but like a welcome.

Without hesitation, I grabbed the key and ran towards it. I turn the doorknob beneath my fingers as the key unlocks it for the very first time. I take a step back and stare at the wonders of this door.