It's Up To You

Author Unknown

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 I cannot always 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 decide for you.

I can give you love, but I cannot force it upon you.

I can teach you to be a friend, but I cannot make you one.

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 grieve about your report card but I canot make you study,

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

I can teach you about sex and the facts of life, but I cannot decide for you.

I can tell you about drinking, but I cannot say “no” for you.

I can warn you about drugs, but I cannot prevent you from using them.

I can teach you about goals and dreams, but I cannot achieve them for you.

I can teach you kindness, but I cannot force you to be kind.


I can warn you about sin, but I cannot make your morals.

I can love you as a [daughter] son, but I cannot place you in God’s family

I can pray for you and your future, but I cannot make you walk with God.

I can tell you how to live, but I cannot give you eternal life.