I gave you life,
But
I 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
I 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 love you with
unconditional love - all of my life.
And I WILL.

- Unknown