To my unborn child

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 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,
but I cannot force you to love me the same