I took my wedding frock coat out of the wardrobe and an envelope slipped onto the carpet.
I lay awake all night, worrying that one small twist could change my whole future.
Tomorrow Im to wed my fiancée, Eleanor. I think shes a perfect match, and every man daydreams about the wedding day. Still, I kept wondering: what if Im wrong? What if the marriage turns out to be a disaster? Will Eleanor and I stay faithful to each other for the rest of our lives? Can we keep respect and love alive forever?
Before I realized it, dawn was breaking. I rose from the bed, splashed cold water on my face and poured a mug of tea.
Theres still a lot to do today. Soon my friends and relatives will be gathering at my flat. My best mate, David, will drop by. Hes been married for years and will surely have the right words for such a moment. Perhaps his advice will calm my nerves.
I fetched the frock coat again and the envelope fell to the floor. It bore no return address, which surprised me. Inside was a letter. Who could have written it and why?
I set the coat aside, sat on the edge of the bed and began to read. The handwriting looked familiar. At the top it read: Read this before you marry.
The note was from my mother. Why would she send it now? Was there something in it that might stop me from going ahead?
A knot of anxiety tightened, but I forced myself to read on. It said:
My dear son, youre about to marry. Im delighted youve found such a wonderful bride.
Remember that marriage is more than joy and celebration; it carries great responsibility. The road ahead will have its bumps and setbacks, but if you and Eleanor truly love each other, youll get through them together.
Marriage means committing to walk the whole journey hand in hand. Never forget that, as a man, youll be the head of your household, and in many ways your familys wellbeing will rest on you.
Avoid quarrels with your wife, especially over money. No amount of pounds can replace a loving partnership. Dont argue about how she spends her earnings.
Know that Eleanor is the right person for you and that shell need your support. When she feels that, shell be able to move any mountain for you.
Mutual respect and understanding are the foundation of a happy home. When anger rises, its better to step away, for harsh words spoken in fury are hard to take back and make solving the problem much harder.
Never give your wife cause for jealousy. If she begins to doubt you, that doubt can linger for a long time.
There are many women in the world, but never forget that yours is the best.
I hope Eleanor shares this view.
Love your wife, think of us and remember your fathers guidance. Well always be with you.
Mum.
With my mothers words echoing in my mind, I realised that a lasting marriage rests on responsibility, respect and steady loveprinciples that will guide me through every chapter of life.
