DO YOU HAVE A PROBLEM? IS SOMETHING BOTHERING YOU? WRITE TO: TELL ME PASTOR, DR. AARON DUMAS, P.O. BOX 188, KING STREET, KINGSTON. FOR PERSONAL REPLIES PLEASE INCLUDE A STAMPED, SELF ADDRESSED ENVELOPE. TELEPHONE: 9291667/8

Dear Pastor

I read your column on a daily basis and I respect your no nonsense advice. I am writing to ask if you would pray for me, please. I am a 22-year-old UK girl of West Indian parentage. My father is Jamaican. I am currently in university and have great ambition. I also work part-time, pretty much supporting myself and I don't mind as this allows me to be independent which is something I always want.

I consider myself an attractive woman with a big heart. Although I am not to everyone's taste, I have often been referred to as very beautiful. I recently came out of a relationship with a Jamaican guy who hurt me badly. I am over him as well as I have forgiven him and know that these things will happen and it was not intentional.

Hurtful

I fell for another Jamaican guy who seemed to just play games which was also very hurtful as I really liked him, especially as I was scared to let my guard down. I know I went out of my way to be so nice to him. I am very attracted to Jamaican/West Indian men and I haven't been put off dating them as no man, regardless of their culture/background is perfect. And I know that these two guys were exceptions.

I know my studies are my first priority and feel blessed to be given the chance to work towards my dreams, but at times I really cannot help but feel very lonely. As much as I push it to the back of my head, it creeps up on me. I know love is something that happens when it is supposed to, but I can't help the feeling and wish for it to go away.

What's wrong?

Sometimes it eats at me, especially when I see friends or even people on the road in happy relationships. I am not jealous of them. I wish them nothing but the best, but I wish so badly for myself that I could have the same. I often wonder what is so wrong with me.

I thought that most guys would love a girl who is not only independent, attractive and loving, but also has a great personality and pretty easy going with a love for fun. I know I am not perfect, but I definitely know I am not a bad person.

In fact nothing gives me more pleasure than to put a smile on the faces of the ones I care about. I would like someone to like me for me and for it to be reciprocated. I am not someone who feels the need to date multitudes of guys.

I will continue to work hard and look at the bright side of life, but I ask you sincerely to pray for me as it would mean a lot to me. Many thanks and may God continue to bless your work.

N.J., USA

Dear N.J.,

You are a very intelligent girl and you spoke from your heart. You are not pretending to be a saint. I admire your spirit and I promise with the help of God to pray for you. And I promise with the help of the Holy Spirit to remember you in my prayers.

Pastor