Dear Pastor,

I am an avid reader of your column. I am a 21-year-old college student. I have been involved with a young man, who is my age, for three years. We are both Christians and have decided to wait until we are married to have sex. The issue is I am now residing and attending school in the United States.

My mother has caused a lot of problems for us. Even though I am almost 22, she is always giving me a hard time whenever I want to spend time with him. She constantly watches us. We have not been able to go on an official date. We love each other. I have every intention of returning to Jamaica to be with him. I just don't know how to approach my mother and tell her I want to go out with him.

Distressed College Student, U.S.A

Dear Distressed Student,

You mother should not stand in your way whenever you want to go out on dates with this man unless, of course, she knows something bad about him which she has not told you. You said she is watching you. If she is guilty of doing so, she is being silly. You don't need anyone to watch you because you can do whatever you want, any time and anywhere, because you are not living at home. You are away at school. Your mother has to learn to trust you. And you should respectfully remind her you are a good young woman and can take care of yourself.

I hope you will get to know this young man better, but try your best not to pine over him. Concentrate on your college work.

I wish you well.

Pastor