Epiphany sundries

How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

Prayer of a Mother

I gave you life, but cannot live it for you

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

I can give you directions, but I cannot 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 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 honour

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 the facts of life, but I can't build your reputation 

I can tell you about drink, but I can't say “no" for you

I can warn you about drugs, but I can't prevent you from using them

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 warn you about sins, but I cannot make you moral

I can love you as a child, but I cannot place you in God's family 

I can pray for you, but I cannot make you walk with God 

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