This sounds like something Dr. Phil might say. I don't watch him very often, but of course he says: "How is that working for you?"
I have spent a great deal of time in my life frustrated with the "realization" (in my mind) that I could do a lot better job than others do at controlling their lives. Sometimes it is real obvious destructive behavior or something very blatantly not good for them. I have found that even in these more extreme cases, my strong judgments, opinions or advice have been of very little help in resolving the problem.
Now, I am not against parents "owning their children's very breath until they are 18" or so, as Judge Judy says. We have a strong responsibility as parents to do our level best to first of all model and then train our children in the things we really believe are in their best interests.
But I am learning the value of "shutting up" with people, praying for wisdom for them and for myself, and leaving them to their thought out choices. I still fret, vent and blow it at times, but I do find that overall, it works pretty well for me and for them. The people who have helped me most have listened, loved me and mainly supported me. With their backing, I eventually wrestle through to wanting to do my best to do the right thing. It sounds simple and uncomplicated, but of course, it is not.
"Love wins", as a new friend said to me recently. I am not perfect so I am sure it will help me if they will hopefully give me the same grace, love and space in return.
In the meantime, I found a great verse the other day: "Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16). At least one Friend promises to give me that if I turn to Him.
