I pulled my wedding suit from the cedar chest, and an envelope slipped onto the floor with a soft thud.
I lay awake all night, the clock ticking past midnight, worrying that one tiny slip could turn my whole life upside down. Tomorrow Im to marry Eleanor, and I keep picturing her as the perfect partner. Its the sort of day every bloke imagines before the big step, yet the doubts keep crawling in: What if Ive chosen wrong? What if, in a few years, we discover the marriage is a mistake? Will Eleanor and I stay true to each other for the rest of our days? Can we keep respect and love alive forever?
Before I realised it, dawn was breaking. I swung my legs out of bed, splashed cold water on my face and poured myself a mug of strong tea.
Theres still a mountain of tasks to tackle today. Soon my friends and family will be gathering at the house. My best mate, David, is due to stop by. Hes been married for years, so Im hoping hell have the right words to steady my nerves before such a momentous occasion.
When I fetched the suit again, the same envelope was there, blank on the front, which only made me more curious. Inside lay a folded letter. Who could have written it, and why?
I set the suit aside, perched on the edge of the bed and began to read. The handwriting was familiar. At the top it read: Read this before you walk down the aisle.
It was from my mother. I wondered why shed felt the need to send me a note now, and whether it might try to stop the wedding altogether. Anxiety surged, but I forced myself to keep going.
The letter said:
James, my son, your wedding day is almost here. Im delighted youve found such a wonderful bride.
Remember that marriage isnt just about joy and celebration; it carries a great deal of responsibility. Youll face bumps and setbacks along the road, but if you and Eleanor truly love each other, youll weather them together.
Being a husband means walking the whole journey side by side with your partner. Never forget that, as a man, you are the head of the household in the traditional sense, and your familys wellbeing will, in part, rest on your shoulders.
Avoid quarrels with Eleanor, especially over money. No amount of cash can replace a loving heart, and arguing about how she spends her own £ wont help either.
Know that she is the right person for you and that shell need your support. When she feels that, shell be able to move mountains for you both.
Mutual respect and understanding are the foundations of a happy home. If youre angry, its wiser to step away for a while, because in the heat of the moment you may say things youll later regret, making reconciliation far harder.
Never give her a reason to feel jealous. If doubt creeps in, it can linger long after.
There are many women in the world, but yours is the one who matters most.
I hope you share these thoughts with Eleanor.
Love your wife, think of us, and remember your fathers guidance. Well always be with you.
Mum.
