Dear Pastor,

I am a 27-year-old male incarcerated in the United States. I am having a problem. My family and friends all turned their backs on me. I still have a lot of time left to serve. I was sentenced to 14 years and have done seven.

Before I was incarcerated, everyone used to call me when they needed money or anything. I helped them and sent money to Jamaica when my family and friends needed help. All I ask of them is to send me a letter every now and then.

My first son's mother doesn't even write me, and I am hurt about it. I have been thinking that whenever I am free I will turn my back on everyone. The only person I have is my mother.

I need your advice. Do you believe that I should give up on everyone? Is there a way I can make things better with my friends and family?

K.G.

Dear K.G.,

I am sure your folks have not abandoned you. They know you are in prison, but perhaps they are struggling to make a living and perhaps unable to find money to buy envelopes and stamps to send you a letter. I am not making excuses for them, but that is the reality of life. It doesn't make any sense getting angry because you do not hear from your relatives. You can still trust the Lord and look forward to your release, although that is far away. Perhaps they may see your letter published and write to you.

Pastor