Dear Pastor,

I am a regular reader of your column. I am 30 years old and my girlfriend is 45. We have been together for three years. She doesn't have any children. She told me the reason why she is not able to keep a man is because she cannot have children and people in her district call her a mule.

I love this woman very much. She takes good care of me. I have one son but his mother and I couldn't get along, so I left her. I would love to marry this woman. I trust and I believe in her.

My grandmother who raised me said I should not marry her because I am going to need more children. I am going to need them, especially when I get old, so I am writing for your advice.

D., Clarendon

Dear D.,

If you love this woman, marry her. I know you respect your grandmother, but she has to learn not to choose for you. You can always adopt a child. Therefore, consider your happiness and the woman's happiness and plan the wedding.

Pastor