Dear Pastor,

I have been living abroad for the past few months and my life has been a living hell. My mom died, so I had to live with my dad, my stepmother and my sisters from Jamaica too.

At home they wake us up to do laundry and dishes while her kids sleep in bed. We always go to church on Sundays, but they want us to stop. They are very ungodly. They argue everyday using expletives which annoys me the most. I want to live for Jesus because He has done so much for me. I am a 'straight A' student at college, but when we are at home we never get to study often because she is always working us out and turning the music up loud.

She always says Jamaicans are depraved. I hate it when she says that because I'm Jamaican. She acts as if she is English while she is burning her bridges behind her. She wants us to date drug heads and when we don't go for the boyfriend thing, she says we are going to have 10 kids. Last month I was so mad because she called me ...and dog, but I told her I leave everything in God's hands.

My dad never listens. He always takes up for her, but I know God made everything happen for a wise reason and purpose and we will get out soon. They pressure us to get jobs because they are running from their responsibilities. I know other people are in worse positions than I am, so I'm giving thanks.

Pastor, please pray that my parents change their ways and pray for me and my sisters as we continue to live for God while we pray for you.

S. W, England, United Kingdom

Dear S. W.,

I really appreciate your letter. You have a good attitude, but your father needs to take time to talk to you all and listen to your complaints. Perhaps he is scared that she would leave him. She has no right to insult you and your siblings. Some people feel they have the right to say nasty things about Jamaicans. What a foolish woman. While she is saying nasty things about Jamaicans, she is sleeping with your dad. He is Jamaican too.

Do your very best in school. Don't get into any arguments with your stepmother. It won't be long before all you children become adults and can be on your own. Continue to go to church. Let your stepmother see that you are different. My prayers are with you.

Pastor