I pulled my wedding tuxedo from the cedar wardrobe and an envelope slipped onto the polished floor with a soft thud.
Sleep fled me the entire night. A single misstep could have unraveled everything, and the thought twisted my gut into knots.
Tomorrow Im to wed Eleanor. Ive always pictured her as the perfect partner, the kind of woman every bloke dreams of marrying. Yet doubt gnawed at me: What if Im wrong about this choice? What if, after the vows, our marriage crumbles? Can Eleanor and I stay faithful to each other for the rest of our lives? Will we ever truly respect and love one another?
Before I knew it, the shadows of doubt had deepened into night. I threw back the covers, splashed cold water on my face, and gulped a strong cup of coffee.
Theres still a mountain of things to do. Soon my friends and family will swarm the house. My best mate, David, will be theremarried for years, seasoned enough to hand me the right words before such a monumental day. Perhaps his calm will be the anchor I need.
I retrieved the tuxedo again, and the envelope lay there, blank on its front, an odd mystery that made my eyebrows rise.
Inside was a letter. Who could have written it, and why?
I set the tux aside, perched on the edge of the bed, and began to read. The handwriting was unmistakably familiar. The opening line read, Read this before you tie the knot.
It was from my mother. Why now? Would this paper hold something that might stop me from walking down the aisle?
A wave of anxiety surged, but I forced myself to keep turning the pages. The words were stark and earnest:
My son, youre about to get married. Im proud youve found such a wonderful bride.
Know that marriage isnt just about joy and celebration. Its a weighty responsibility. The road ahead will be littered with hurdles and setbacks, but if you and Eleanor truly love each other, youll overcome them all.
Marriage means youre prepared to walk the whole journey hand in hand. Never forget youre the man of the house, the head of the family. In many ways, your familys future hinges on you.
Dont let arguments over money tear you apart. Money can never replace the love you share. Avoid quarrels about how she spends her pound.
Remember, Eleanor is the best thing in your life, and shell need your support. When she feels that, shell move mountains for you.
Mutual respect and understanding are the bedrock of any family. If youre angry, step awaytemper can make you say things youll regret, and it only makes fixing the problem harder.
Never give your wife a reason to be jealous. If doubt creeps in, it can linger for years.
There are many women in the world, but never forget yours is the one you cherish most.
I want Eleanor to feel the same.
Love your wife, think of us and your father. Well always be with you.
Mum.
