I snatched my wedding suit from the oak wardrobe and, with a sudden clang, an envelope slipped onto the floor.
Sleep abandoned me that night. A single misstep could have turned my whole life upsidedown, and the dread gnawed at me.
Tomorrow Im to marry my beloved, Felicity. Ive always thought of her as the perfect woman. Every man imagines his wedding day as a flawless picture, but the doubts keep circling. What if Im wrong about my choice? What if, in time, this marriage crumbles? Can Felicity and I stay true to each other for the rest of our lives? Will we ever truly respect and love one another?
By the time the first light crept through the curtains, the thoughts were still racing. I swung my legs out of bed, splashed cold water on my face and gulped down a black coffee.
The day ahead was a whirlwind. Soon my friends and family would be pouring into my Kensington flat. My oldest mate, David Clarke, was due to stop by. Hes been married for years and, I hoped, could find the right words to steady my nerves before the ceremony.
I lifted the suit again, and the envelope thudded to the carpet. It bore no address, no namejust a plain, unassuming flap. My curiosity tightened like a knot.
Inside was a letter. Who could have written it, and why now?
I set the suit aside, sank onto the bed and began to read. The handwriting was unmistakably my mothers. At the top it read: Read this before you wed.
It was from Mum. What could she possibly want to tell me? Was there something in here that might stop me from going through with the wedding?
A wave of anxiety washed over me, but I forced myself to keep reading. The words unfolded:
James, youre about to get married. Im delighted youve found such a wonderful bride.
Remember, marriage isnt just laughter and celebration; its a heavy responsibility. The road ahead will be littered with challenges and setbacks, but if you and Felicity truly love each other, youll rise above them all.
Marriage means committing to walk the whole journey together. Never forget that as a husband youre the head of the household; in many ways, the wellbeing of your family rests on your shoulders.
Avoid quarrels over money. No amount of cash can replace the love you share. Dont argue about how Felicity spends her own £the real wealth is in trust, not in pounds.
Know that Felicity is your greatest support. When she feels that, shell move mountains for you.
Mutual respect and understanding are the foundations of any home. If anger strikes, step away. In fury youll say things youll later regret, and the damage can become impossible to repair.
Never give your wife a reason to doubt you. Jealousy erodes a marriage faster than any storm.
There are many women in the world, but never forget yours is the best.
I want Felicity to feel the same.
Love your wife, think of us, and remember your fathers teachings. Well always be with you.
Mum.
