Reflections
of a Parent

I
gave you life...
but cannot live it for you.
I
can teach you things...
but I cannot make you learn.
I
can give you
directions...
but I cannot be there to
lead you.
I
can allow you
freedom...
but I cannot account for it.
I
can take you to
church...
but I cannot make you
believe.
I
can teach you right
from wrong...
but I cannot always decide
for you.
I
can buy you beautiful
clothes...
but I cannot make you
beautiful inside.
I
can offer you advice...
but I cannot accept it for
you.
I
can give you love...
but I cannot force it upon
you.
I
can teach you to
share...
but I cannot make you
unselfish.
I
can teach you
respect...
but I cannot force you to
show honor.
I
can advise you about
friends...
but cannot choose them for
you.
I
can advise you about
sex...
but I cannot keep you pure.
I
can tell you the facts
of life...
but I can't build your
reputation.
I
can tell you about
drink...
but I can't say "no" for
you.
I
can warn you about
drugs...
but I can't prevent you
from using them.
I
can tell you about
lofty goals...
but I can't achieve them
for you.
I
can teach you about
kindness...
but I can't force you to be
gracious.
I
can warn you about
sins...
but I cannot make you moral.
I
can pray for you...
but I cannot make you walk
with God.
I
can tell you how to
live...
but I cannot give you
eternal life.
I
can love you with
unconditional love all of my
life...
and I will.

Author:
Unknown