Dear Pastor,

I am a student at a high school. I am 17 years old and I am in grade eleven. I am taking CXC examinations. I want to become a Christian in the new year but I am having so many conflicts with my relatives. I am living with my aunt and two other cousins. My aunt does not like me and I know why but I can't really say it.

My mother died 13 years ago and my father doesn't care about me.

Please tell me what to do. I can't go on like this. They know I don't have any parents and they do not even try to help me. They don't love me as guardians. I cry myself to sleep every night, so please help me.

S.B.

Dear S.B.,

I am sorry to hear that your mother died and you have been struggling a lot, and that those around you do not give you the impression that they love you. However, I am happy that you are attending school. I wish you well as you take your exams. I know it's a real challenge for students who are not very comfortable at home to prepare for exams. I trust that you will be able to use the library to study and as you study, believe that nothing is impossible and that God can help you to pass the subjects you will take.

Sometimes, people give the impression that a student has to be brilliant to do well. No, you do not have to be brilliant or, as people say 'bright'. You have to be determined to do well, have confidence in yourself, study hard and not waste time. Another thing is that you must keep your mind on your future goals. If you want to be a nurse or a doctor or whatever, you have to begin to prepare yourself from now.

I will be praying for you. Make sure that you are not rebellious. Show respect to your aunt and to others and make sure you keep in touch with me. If anyone is willing to help you financially, I will contact you.

Pastor