In a small town tucked between forest and field, Mira lived alone in a cozy, sunlit cottage. Her home was her sanctuary—lined with books, peace, and quiet routines.
But every now and then, relatives would come knocking.
There was her cousin Lena, who always entered with complaints and loud opinions, never once asking how Mira was doing. Then came her older brother Jon, who had perfected guilt like a craft, always reminding Mira of childhood debts that never seemed to expire. And finally, there was Uncle Ray—who visited only when life failed him, each time leaving Mira drained and empty.
One day, Mira read a passage that struck her like a silent gong:
“What you let in changes you. Choose wisely.”
It was from Haruki Murakami.
That day, she stopped answering the door to those who came only to take, hurt, or manipulate.
She didn’t stop loving them.
She simply started loving herself more.
And as her cottage remained quiet and warm, she realized:
Blood might tie us together, but peace chooses who stays.
Moral: Protecting your home is protecting your spirit. Even family must knock—and respect the answer.
