Tell Me Pastor

Beggar's row

Dear Pastor,

I have been reading your column since I was seven. I am now 20 and I have a problem.

My mother moved my sibling and me to an inner-city community when I was about 15. However, ever since I moved there, the men in the area have been making advances to me. I was not interested. They went as far as saying that if they did not get me, I would have to leave the community.

Rent too high

I got worried and I spoke to my mother about it but things did not change because she could not afford to pay rent in a residential neighbourhood. I decided that I would help her to get out after I left high school.

Eventually, I left high school, but I then I went to university. I then decided that I would help her after I finished school.

When I started university, everyone backed down a little, but this guy kept making rude comments at me whenever I passed him on the road. He stated that he would kill me if he could not have me. I took him seriously, but my mother did not. One night while we were sleeping, he burnt down our (rented) home. We lost everything. We have been battling life ever since.

My little brother is about to take his exams and he does not have any books. We lost our furniture and we do not live anywhere that is stable. I sometimes blame myself for this misfortune. I am asking for Jamaica's help. I am asking if anyone could donate anything to us.

I would really be grateful for your help. Thank you.

T.B.,

St. Andrew

Dear T. B.,

You sent me an NCB account number, but I do not know if your story is authentic. You have alleged that a man in your community destroyed the home in which your family lived. I don't know if that is true. If your accusations are correct, this is clearly a police matter.

May I suggest that you appeal to your member of parliament and the councillor for your area for assistance. You should also ask the minister of your church to assist you through Food For the Poor.

Pastor.