Women keep trying to steal my man

Dear Pastor,

I am having a problem. When I was 16 years old, I had a boyfriend. He was 21.

He lived with his grandmother and I lived with my parents. Our love life started when he asked me if I would wash some clothes for him and my parents told me I could go and do it. I started by washing for him every two weeks. Then his mother wanted me to wash her sheets and offered to pay me. Every week this man gave me $5,000. I was so glad for the money. Then he told me that he loved me and he wanted us to become boyfriend and girlfriend. I didn't have any objection to that. He told me that would be private between us and I agreed.

He went away on the farm work programme and I really missed him. He sent me money and when he returned, he brought me many things. I am now 24 years old and we have one child together. Other girls are trying to take this man away from me because I am small in body and I do not curse and carry on. Even my best friend offered herself to him and I had to tell her that she is worse than a whore because she knows where this man and I are coming from.

This man would like to marry me. My mother says I should not let her down - I should just work hard and be true to him. What do you say?

Initial Withheld

Dear Writer,

This young man was very fortunate to have you wash his clothes. He did not take you as a maid; perhaps he considered you as a friend with benefits.

But the relationship developed rapidly and both of you became lovers. I am glad that this man takes good care of you and I hope that he will continue to do so. Make sure you go back to school and please, ignore all those who would like to take him away from you. I wish both of you well.

Pastor