For Mothers

This piece of paper has been on my fridge since both my kids were in preschool until the day we sold our home and became renters. It was one of the handouts among many given by Mrs. Bruno, the principal of the one room preschool in Northport New York. Mrs. Bruno was a beautiful lady inside and out. She loved and treated all the children like her own grandchildren.

The schoolroom was always cluttered with books, toys, art and crafts displays and dress up kits. She made it homely where kids felt at home and loved. One day the church board cleaned it up and made it looked just like any other school. Mrs. Bruno was gone…we didn’t know why.

I’ve kept the handouts she gave and will be sharing some when I find them.

Reflections of a Mother
By Lori Jacob

Reflections of a mother 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 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 the facts of life, but I cannot build your reputation 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 cannot achieve them for you.
I can teach you about kindness, but I cannot 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 love you with unconditional love all of my life…and I will!!