Dear Pastor,

I love reading your column and listening to your programme. I have a problem. I have a boyfriend and he is such a gentleman. He treats me well and we have a good relationship. The problem is that he lives in a garrison community in St. James. He lives alone and he wants me to spend the nights with him. The few times I did, I stayed up the whole night trembling with fear from the continuous sounds of gunshot.

He understands that I'm scared. He says all I have to do was be in the house before dark and I will be ok. He says that he will be there to comfort me when I'm scared. He also believes that with time I will get used to it like everyone else in the area. He is unable to move out due to financial difficulties.

Pastor, what should I do? Should I leave the one I love or should I be brave and follow his instructions when I'm there? Do you think I will get used to it?

M. G., Jamaica

Dear M. G.,

You should let your boyfriend know that you are not comfortable staying at his home. If he loves you, he will not force you to stay there.

Pastor