Dear Pastor,

I enjoy reading your column and I see how you give constructive advice. I am having a bit of a problem. I have been collecting liquor. Most of my collection is from my family and friends living in Jamaica or visited Jamaica. Whenever I have company over I give them a glass or two, or at times they even get a small bottle.

My problem is I have a cousin that I believe is an alcoholic. Whenever he comes over he expects to drink all he can. Before my liquor was being stored, you couldn't tell there was any liquor in the house. I now have a wine cabinet and it's on display, you cannot help but see it. My problem is that I do not want to take all my liquor out to hide because my cousin is coming over. I do not think in the comfort of my own home I should hide my belongings. But at the same time I cannot give my cousin my liquor to take home or more than two glasses.

I need to know how I can tell him without him getting offended. I do not want you to get the idea that I'm a mean person but who goes to someone's home and does not have any conscience?

Please tell me what to do. Thanks in advance for your advice.

M.B., Florida, U.S.A.

Dear M.B.,

Why should it be difficult to tell your cousin that you cannot allow him to take away your liquor or to limit the amount he drinks at your house? You are weak. It shouldn't concern you whether he becomes upset or calls you mean.

He should bring his own liquor whenever you are having parties or family get together. That is the right thing to do. In fact, if you know that he is an alcoholic you shouldn't encourage him to drink at all. So, put your foot down, be firm. Before he comes back to your house let him know that no one, absolutely no one is going to be allowed to drink freely at your house anymore.

Pastor