Dear Pastor,

I am 15 years old and I am in love. I was raped by my stepfather late last year and through all my struggle and pain, there was no one there for me. I met and fell in love with a guy about three weeks ago. He really shows me that he loves me. He calls me every day to find out how I am doing. He has even gone as far as calling me his wife. I really appreciate him. Whenever I call and ask him about other women, he tells me that there is no other woman and that I am his wife.

My problem is that after what my stepfather did to me, I don't think I would want a man because he might do the same thing to me. Please give me your advice because I really love this man, but I am afraid.

K.S., St. Catherine, Jamaica

Dear K.S.,

I cannot encourage a 15-year- old girl to go steady with a man. The truth is you are not yet ready for an intimate relationship. Therefore, you should only socialise with male friends. The young man may mean well but both of you should not become intimate. So, please, tell him that you are not ready for the type of relationship he wishes to have with you.

I regret hearing that your stepfather raped you. You said nobody was there for you. Are you really saying that not even your mother stood with you? I wish you had said more about this matter. Surely, your step-father should have been arrested, charged, tried and sentenced to prison and you should have received therapy. If you did not get counselling, please talk to your pastor or his wife and ask for help. My prayers are with you. Do let me hear from you again.

Pastor