Mom wants me abroad, dad wants me to stay

Dear Pastor,

I am a regular reader of your column. I thank you for the guidance that you have given to young people and older folks, too. I am 18. I am out of high school, but I am getting ready to go back to school. I am living with my father. My mother is abroad. She was trying to get me to study abroad, but my is father against it because he would have to send the money to me to pay my tuition. My father wants me to stay in Jamaica and get a student loan. It would be easier for him. I am the only girl for my father and my mother. When it comes to me, my father and my mother don't always agree. I love them both. I want to be a paediatrician. I hope to start university next year.

V.M.

Dear V.M.,

I am glad that you have parents who care. It's not bad when parents have verbal fights over their children. They don't hate each other. They argue until they reach consensus. You will get to college and they will pay for your studies. It seems to me that your father is going to win the argument. He has some strong points. It is likely that you can get a student loan and pay for your education. If you were to study broad he would have to buy US dollars and pay for your studies in that currency. I also believe that your father wants you around for a while. However, they should allow you to have an input into the plan. After all, you are the one who will be attending school. I am glad you have a very good relationship with your parents, especially your father. I wish you well. Continue to make wise decisions.

Pastor