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