My stepfather treats me well

Dear Pastor,

I am a 20. Iam living with my parents. I do not carry the name of my father. I carry the name of my stepfather. My father got my mother pregnant and went away. She did not know that she was pregnant. By the time she realised what had happened, my father left for America and she did not know where to find him

I am her only child. When she met my stepfather, he had two children before. I wish I knew my father, but I accept my stepfather as my father. He is a good man, but strict. He has never beaten me. When my mother would hit me, my stepfather would quarrel.

I have a boyfriend, but he does not know that my stepfather is not my real father. Do you think I should tell him about my background? Please for your advice.

P.L

Dear P.L.,

I believe that you should not do anything that may embarrass your mother.

You are very fortunate to have had a stepfather who loves you and has taken care of you. I am sure he is proud of you. I am sure when your mother called you 'White Rum' and 'Red Stripe', he doesn't like it. Perhaps she does so when you do something that she is displeased about and she is trying to remind you that you were conceived under liquor. Don't worry my dear, don't let that bother you.

I hope your boyfriend will treat you well and that he will eventually marry you.