Thank God for my daughter-in-law

Dear Pastor,

I am living in New York. My story is the opposite of what other people have said to you. My daughter-in-law is living with me for 14 years. My son brought her home 14 years ago, and believe me, Pastor, we have never exchanged any unkind words to each other.

She is the best daughter-in-law one could ever ask for. I thank God for her every day. We have no problem. We never argue. I have never stood in her way. She has never disrespected me. She has taught her children good manners. I would not trade her for anyone else.

Pastor, with the rent situation in America, most people have to move in with in-laws, sisters, cousins and friends to cut cost. It is hard. Some of us can't really return to Jamaica because we wouldn't have anywhere to live, or we have a condition that needs medical attention. So pastor, in some cases it is not easy.

M

Dear M.,

I am happy to hear that your daughter-in-law and you have a very good relationship. She is in love with your son, and living in your house. Congratulations to you because you have not gotten in her way. And the young woman is so very comfortable. You are happy with her. And she has trained her children well. They respect you.

It is true that many young people have had to return to their parents' home even after graduating from college because rent is very high and they are not in a position to pay the rent. Americans have been told that it would take longer to purchase a home because the interest rate has gone over seven per cent; the highest it has been over many years. So young people who were eager to leave their parents' home are going back to their routes and assisting in paying the bills.

Yes, it is also true that many Jamaicans who may wish to come home cannot do so because they have nothing to come to; nothing in Jamaica. They sold out everything and turned their backs on Jamaica. They have nothing good to say about their country.

I want to thank you for your wisdom. May the good Lord bless your home and bless this young couple. Let me hear from you again.

Pastor