Reflections

I gave you life,

 but cannot live it for you.

I can give you directions,

  but I cannot be there to lead you.

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 about alcohol & drugs,

but I can't say "No" for you.

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 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