Dear Pastor,

I am 22 years old living with my babyfather and our two-year- old son. I found out that I am pregnant and I want to do an abortion, but my spouse doesn't believe in that. I just feel like I am not ready for another child. It's too soon. I went on an interview for college September coming. I don't believe in it either, but it's the same thing happened with my first child and I can't afford for the same thing to reach me again. In fact, I just started working.

The doctor told me I was six to eight weeks. I was shocked to death. We were using condom all along until he decided we should stop since we are living together and were not sleeping with anyone else. AIDS is one thing, but it seems we forget about babies. He says either I carry the pregnancy or we separate. But I am willing to take that risk because I have my future to think about and this is going to put a pause right now, again. Yes, I would love to have another child, but not right now. I missed out a lot on my education while I was pregnant before and besides I just want what is best for us. I just wish he would understand.

Please, pastor, help me.

E., Portland, Jamaica

Dear E.,

I cannot encourage you to have an abortion. It is unfortunate that you and this man stopped using the condom. Anything can happen when people don't use contraceptives. Have your baby. You will eventually get to college, but you will get there at a later date.

Pastor