Dear Pastor,

I read your column quite often and I am now seeking your advice. I am 15. I am a grade 10 student. I am literally sick in the days. I feel like taking my own life because things are so messed up. I live with my extended family. My father hates me and hurts me badly. One night I came home and saw my younger sister. I lifted her up and she began crying and clawing at me. I put her down and she fell. My father squeezed my throat and even cut me. I stepped on his feet and squeezed his testicles. He let me go and I ran. He threw a stone weighing about three pounds and hit me on my foot.

He curses me daily and calls me names. Whenever I try talking to my mother, she calls me Satan and evil. Sometimes she ignores me. I don't want to be absent as I will not get any notes because I don't have any friends. I get good grades sometimes. I am so stressed because of that man.

Once when my sister was extremely young, my father told me that he would kill me if I ever played with her. I was only allowed to wash the clothes that she urinated and defecated on. Now that she is three years old, she is calling me stink. Nothing has changed. My father tells her not to play with me because I am corrupt, bad mind and a whore. Whenever she calls me names, no one tells her to stop. They don't even buy personal items for me such as clothes and shoes. If you know of anyone having these things to offer, please consider me. I really need help.

Kingston, Jamaica

Dear,

You do not wish to let anyone know who you are but I do have your name, address and number. I am really moved by your letter and I will do my best to provide you with some clothes and other necessities. My prayers are with you. I believe that you are going to do well. Keep courage. You will hear from me. I am not prepared to say anything about your parents. Be strong.

Pastor