Tell Me Pastor

Praying for death

Dear Pastor,

I have two children whose father was killed last year by gunmen.

Since then my life seems to be going down hill. I am working, but my salary is nothing to match my bills. My bills are mounting, I am talking about rent, light, school fees, etc.

I am suffering from depression and the children are depressed too. It hurts to see them in the state that they are in knowing that when their dad was alive they used to be well taken care of. They are nine and ten, a girl and boy.

They are in need of counselling because they are saying things like "Mom, I don't want to live anymore. I want to die."

Sometimes they are in danger and when I try to talk to them they become very aggressive. They are displaying a 'don't care' attitude towards life and it is really worrying me. At times I try to comfort them, but I break down. The girl is a straight-A student and what scares me is that she will not get a proper education with my financial status. They have the potential and I don't want them to go to waste. Can you refer them to a counsellor?

No will

Pertaining to their welfare the case is before the Administrative General because their father did not write a will. But as you know that will take awhile to come through.

I am desperately in need of immediate financial help to keep them in school as the girl will be taking GSAT next year.

At times when I sit and think about my financial status, I think negative things. I know I have to be strong for them, but what can I do now? With tears in my eyes I am begging for help please.

C. C.,

St. Catherine, Jamaica

Dear C. C,

I am sorry to know that the father of the children was killed and I am also sorry to hear that you are having financial problems. But I am wondering why the relatives of the children's father are not helping you.

I am sure that they know that you are having financial problems. Is it that they think that everything is alright? You should tell them what is going on and appeal to them for help.

Are you not connected to a church? Some churches have programmes to assist persons like you. Churches help with food, school fees, etc. Where do the children attend Sunday school and church? Speak to their minister.

Concerning counselling, the children may need to see a child psychologist but a trained family counsellor can help them too. Check one out.

Pastor.