I pulled my wedding frock coat from the wardrobe and an envelope slipped onto the carpet.
I lay awake all night, turning the thought over and over. A tiny twist of fate could have altered the course of my life, and the worry settled deep in my chest.
Tomorrow I am to marry my beloved, Blythe. To me she feels like the perfect partner, and I suspect most men imagine the same fairytale before the altar. Yet I cant stop asking myself: what if Ive chosen wrongly? What if, in time, our marriage proves to be a failure? Will Blythe and I be able to stay true to each other for the rest of our days? Can we keep respect and love alive forever?
Before I knew it the morning had broken. I swung my legs out of bed, splashed water on my face and poured a mug of tea.
There is still a mountain of tasks to tackle today. Soon my friends and family will be arriving at the house. My oldest mate, David Clarke, is due to drop by. Hes been married for years and Im certain hell have a few steady words to share before such a momentous occasion. Perhaps his calm will help steady my nerves.
I fetched the wedding coat again, and this time an envelope landed on the floor with a soft thud. Nothing was written on the front, and a wave of surprise washed over 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 felt familiar. The opening line read: Read this before you wed.
It was from my mother, Margaret. But why now? Was there something in the note that might stop me from going through with the wedding?
A nervous flutter rose in my chest, yet I forced myself to keep reading. The letter continued:
My son, you are soon to be married. Im delighted you have found such a wonderful bride.
Know that marriage is not only about joy and pleasure. It carries a great responsibility. The road ahead will have its obstacles and setbacks, but if you and Blythe truly love each other, youll overcome them together.
Marriage means you are prepared to walk the whole journey with your beloved. Never forget that, as a man, you are the head of the household. In many ways the wellbeing of your family will rest on your shoulders.
Avoid quarrels with your wife, especially over money. No amount of pounds can replace a loving heart. Do not argue about how she spends her earnings.
Remember that Blythe is the right person for you and she needs your support. When she feels that, she will be able to move mountains for you.
Mutual respect and understanding are the foundation of any family. When anger rises, its wiser to step away, for in fury you may say things youll later regret, making resolution much harder.
Never give your wife a 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 Blythe feels the same.
Love your wife, think of us and of your father. We will always be with you.
Mum.
