I am a 17-year-old girl. My problem is that my mom and I were best friends and I used to tell her everything. But, since lately, she's getting really 'stuck up'. She hates my boyfriend, who she approved of initially. But, because it seems as if I'm sharing my secrets and talking more to him about my life, it gets her upset. I still share with her but sometimes she tells me I talk too much or she thinks I am talking nonsense.

Now, she insists that I date other guys and when I do, she talks badly about my boyfriend. I have never lied to my mom about anything that has to do with my personal life. Now, she's leaving me with no other choice.

If I talk to her about stuff, she makes a big fuss. She used to be down-to-earth and I used to be able to share with her but, as I get older, things are different. I can't tell her where I am going. I hate this because I'm still a good kid. I'm still abstaining from sex and I'm doing well in school. No one knows me like my mom, so she knows I'm being good.

So, why is she punishing me for telling her the truth? Why is she cloaking me up now that I am two years away from adulthood? I don't want to lose her trust, so please help me understand. I don't know if it's the generation gap kicking in, as I'm 17 and she's 49. She has always managed to keep up with the generation. She is all I have and I am all she has.

Pastor, please, give me your best advice. Thanks in advance.

J.C., St Ann, Jamaica

Dear J.C.,

I appreciate your letter. I wish more young people would have the type of rapport that you have with your mother. I congratulate both of you. And, I must ask you to continue to trust your mother.

I believe your mother is becoming concerned about the young man you described as your significant other. She could be getting scared, as you are growing older and getting closer to the guy. She would prefer to see you date other guys also.

Dating other guys is really not a bad idea. It is never wise for a young girl to date one man.

Perhaps, your mother thinks that you are in a hurry to settle down with this man and you are denying yourself a bigger and brighter future. I wish you had stated what type of work this young man does.

Pastor