Dear Pastor,

I am a young woman in my early 20s who is in my final year of college. I get very good grades, so much so that I belong to my university's honours society. I am also involved with various school groups.

The problem is I recently found out that I am pregnant, and now I believe perhaps my life is over. The father of the child is equally intelligent and a wonderful person and we have been together for about three years. He is also very kind and understanding, so I know eventually, if not at first, he will come to accept the situation.

However, I know my parents, especially my mother will not. I know she will demand that I have an abortion, but I cannot bring myself to do so. Nor will my boyfriend allow this.

Dreams on hold

I know this will put my dreams on hold for a while, but I am determined to not let this drag me down. I will be successful. How do I stand up to my mother on this? I have always allowed her to more or less run my life. But I feel this time should be different. I await your professional advice.

Please, pray for us.

N.M., New York, USA

Dear N.M.,

Well, I hope that you will be respectful to your mother even as you tell her that you are pregnant.

Tell her that your are sorry to disappoint her by becoming pregnant, but you hope that she would continue to love you as her daughter as much as you continue to love her. Ask her for moral support.

If you find it difficult to speak to your mother in person, write her a letter.

Pastor