A Letter From a Mother
to Her Child

I can give you life, but I cannot live for you. I can teach you things, but I can't make you learn. I can give you directions,      but I can't always be there to lead you. I can allow you freedom, but I can't account for it. I can take you to the Kingdom Hall, but I can't make you believe. I can teach you right from wrong,      but I can't always decide for you. I can buy you beautiful clothes,      but I can't make you lovely inside. I can offer you Jehovah's advice, but I can't accept it for you. I can give you love, but I can't force it upon you. I can teach you to share, but I cannot make you unselfish. I can teach you respect,      but I can't force you to show honor. I can advise you about sex, but I can't keep you pure. I can tell you the facts of life,      but I cannot build your reputation. I can tell you about drinks, but I can't say no for you. I can warn you about drugs,      but I cannot prevent you from using them. I can tell you about lofty goals,      but I can't achieve them for you. I can warn you about sin, but I cannot make your morals. I can love you as a child,      but I cannot place you in Jehovah's family. I can teach you about Jesus,      but I cannot make Jesus your Lord. I can tell you how to live, but I cannot give you eternal life.