His Speech

Good evening. Thanks for celebrating Seth and Julie’s wedding. 

My name is Martin Gold. I am proud to be both the brother and Best Man to Seth. “My speech is going to be like a mini-skirt; it is big enough to cover the essentials and short enough to hold your attention.” 

This anonymous quote limits me to five minutes. 

My Mum said as a child of five years, I questioned why the space on her lap became smaller. Lying my head on Mum’s belly, I swear you kicked me in the head with your puny feet, Seth. At the hospital, I sat in a chair and held you. Admittedly, I would rather have held a cool toy. At three, you biked after me around the neighbourhood, until you crashed. You didn’t thank me for my heroism! I carried you a mile home while you sobbed your leg was broken. Dad, the doctor in our family, examined your leg and only noted insignificant chicken scratches.You howled in indignation, realising I had left your bike at the scene of the crash. (Shake head.) From being my pesky little brother, you matured to my friend and support. (I growl!) Seth, as a teen you ratted on me for breaking curfew. Now, I realise you were only protecting me.

Two years ago, Seth, you phoned me about Julie. If I had been given a five pound note for every time you said “Julie,” I would be extremely wealthy. Obviously, you were smitten by Julie. You loved her halo of blonde hair, beauty, humour and compassion. Apparently, my gormless brother was lost on his college campus, and Julie kindly escorted him to class!!! 

J.G.Holland, the American novelist, wrote, “The most precious possession that ever comes to a man in this world is a woman’s heart.” Seth won Julie’s heart and he is a better man for loving her.    

Please join me in raising your glasses to the Newly Weds. Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Seth Gold.

*************

Martin smiled, readjusted his bow tie and tucked his notes into his tuxedo.