Dear Friar Lawrence,
I am writing this letter to urge you to consider renouncing the marriage of Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet. Marriage is a definite decision. Marriage is a choice you make after having thought it through, understanding the possible consequences to come. You know as well as I, that this marriage will only end in chaos and heartbreak. Because, as you said before, "these violent delights have violent ends." How can you be so sure that this love Romeo speaks of is true? Just yesterday Romeo was doting over Rosaline, but one look and a small exchange has convinced him he is in love with the daughter of Capulet. They are young, and the concept of romance and love is so new and joyful to them. Any emotions they feel are bound to be blown out of proportion. They are caught up in the excitement now, making hasty and impulsive decisions, but when it settles, Romeo and Juliet will realize their feelings may have changed. And even if it is true love, one day is too fast. With marriage comes responsibility and freedom that neither are accustomed to. Give their relationship time, and when it proves to be undying love, then consider marrying the two. Let Romeo and Juliet fall in love with each other for who they truly are, not for the person they fell in love with after a brief encounter and a kiss.
You believe this wedding will unite the Capulets and Montagues, and that may be so. But what if it's not? Hate for the other runs deep in each family. Capulet, Montague, their wives, and their kin will not rejoice at this marriage but frown upon it. The Capulets and Montagues won't suddenly forget their feud that has lasted generations and become one family, and it would be unreasonable to expect them to. Hate and love may be polar opposites but they are both strong and overwhelming. One marriage between their children will not bring peace to the tension and disputes, but elevate them. Verona's citizens are irritated by the constant quarrel and the families are in a precarious situation with the prince. By marrying Romeo and Juliet, you may bring them more harm than good. It would not come as a shock to me if the families disowned their children. And living with the knowledge that you were responsible for Romeo and Juliet being estranged from their families would not be easy.
So I strongly advise you to not condone the rash and immature choices being made by these teenagers. Refuse to wed Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet, not out of spite, but because you know how much damage it could cause.
Sincerely,
Isa Iiams
