A Parent Can Only Do So Much

Published on April 29, 2010 by Tami Axtell

This is a simple poem from the heart of a parent (author unknown) telling the difference between what they can and can't do as a parent...children ultimately must decide the character of their life.

I gave you life
but I cannot live it for you.

I can teach you things
but I cannot make you learn.

I can give you directions
but cannot always be there to lead you.

I can allow you freedom
but 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 lovely clothes
but I cannot cannot make you lovely inside.

I can offer you advice
but cannot accept it for you.

I can give you my love
but I cannot force it on you.

I can teach you to share
but I cannot make you unselfish.

I can teach you respect
but I cannot force you to honor.

I can advise you about your friends
but I cannot choose them for you.

I can teach you kindness
but I cannot force you to be gracious.

I can love you as a son/daughter
but I cannot place you in God's family.

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.

--Author Unknown