I can give you water
but I can't quench your thirst
I can give you food
but I can't stop your hunger
I can tell you jokes
but I can't make you laugh
I can call you spiteful names
but I can't hurt you
You must eat
You must drink
You must laugh
You must cry
I can't make you happy
I can't make you sad
I can't force you to love me
I can only give you the ingredients
but you must choose to make the meal.
Nobody can affect your spirit, good or bad, unless you allow it. Your peace, your happiness, your love is all within your control. That can be a terrifying thought but it can also be freeing. People's criticism can only upset you if you listen and allow it too. If I pay you a compliment, doesn't mean you will accept and believe it. You are in control of you.