Jamaican Postgraduate Plans Island Wedding With American Boyfriend

A Jamaican-born woman living overseas has written to Pastor saying she is pleased with the direction her life has taken after finding love while pursuing postgraduate studies.

R.W. said her parents left Jamaica when she and her brother were children and raised them abroad. She attended high school in America, completed her first degree in the United States, and is now working towards a postgraduate qualification.

She said she once shared an apartment with another young woman, but that arrangement ended when the roommate moved in with her boyfriend, who is also doing postgraduate studies. R.W. later became involved with the man’s brother, and the two are now living together.

According to her, her boyfriend’s weekend earnings help them cover their expenses. She said they study together, manage their money carefully, and avoid unnecessary spending.

R.W. admitted she had never imagined she would be in love with a white man, but said the relationship has been accepted by both families. She said she had worried that her parents would ask why she became seriously involved with a man before completing her master’s degree.

That concern eased when she brought him home to meet them. Her father, who is a mechanic, got help from the boyfriend on a few vehicles, which made the visit easier. Her mother prepared Jamaican meals, and R.W. said her boyfriend now keeps asking when they will visit again because he wants more Jamaican food.

She also said his parents have welcomed her. His family, she noted, lives in an attractive community and has a beautiful home.

R.W. said she feels grateful to have met him, and the couple intends to marry soon after both complete their master’s degrees. They would like to have the wedding in Jamaica and asked whether Pastor would be able to officiate.

In response, Pastor wished her well and urged her to remain focused on her studies. He said he does not support young students living together, adding that he has seen many such arrangements end badly, often with women bearing the greater hurt.

Pastor said he was glad both families had accepted the relationship. He advised R.W. to make contact when the couple is ready to plan the wedding, so they can be guided on what would be required if they decide to marry in Jamaica.