I slipped my wedding suit out of the wardrobe and an envelope fell onto the floor.
Sleep eluded me all night. A tiny misstep could have turned my whole life upside down, and the thought kept me on edge.
Tomorrow Im to marry my fiancée, Evelyn. Ive always thought she was the perfect partner. Every man fantasises a bit about the wedding day. I kept wondering whether Id made the right choice. What if Im wrong? What if, in time, our marriage turns out to be a disaster? Will Evelyn and I be able to stay faithful to each other for the rest of our lives? Can we keep respect and love alive forever?
Before I realised it, the night had deepened. I got out of bed, splashed water on my face and poured a mug of tea.
Theres still a lot to do today. Soon my friends and family will arrive at my flat. My best mate, David, is coming over. Hes been married for years and will surely have the right words for a moment like this. Perhaps he can calm my nerves.
I fetched the wedding suit again and the envelope hit the floor with a soft thump. Nothing was written on it, which left me puzzled.
Inside was a letter. Who could have sent it, and why?
I set the suit aside, sat on the bed and began to read. The handwriting looked familiar. At the top it read: Read this before you marry.
It was from my mother. Why would she write me a note now? Was there something in it that might stop me from going through with the wedding?
Anxiety crept in, but I forced myself to read on. The letter said:
My son, youll soon be married. Im delighted youve found such a wonderful bride.
Know that marriage isnt just a celebration; it carries great responsibility. The road ahead will have its bumps and setbacks, but if you and Evelyn truly love each other, youll overcome them.
Marriage means youre prepared to walk the whole way hand in hand. Never forget that, as a man, youre expected to be the head of the household. In many ways, your familys wellbeing will rest on your shoulders.
Avoid quarrels with your wife, especially over money. No amount of pounds can replace a loving partnership. Dont argue about how she spends her cash.
Remember that Evelyn is the best person for you and that she needs your support. When she feels that, shell move mountains for you.
Mutual respect and understanding are the foundation of any family. If youre angry, its wiser to be alone for a while, because anger can make you say things youll later regret, making any resolution far 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 finest.
I hope Evelyn sees it the same way.
Love your wife, think of us and your father. Well always be with you.
Mum.
The letter reminded me that a marriage built on trust, humility and a steady heart outlasts any fleeting worryso Ill walk into the wedding with confidence, knowing the true strength of a partnership lies in the love we choose to nurture every day.
