This week had its many ups and downs. I actually experienced the rewards and punishments from God. I felt so unlucky and depressed on Monday because everything bad was happening to me: my grades were dropping, there were struggles between friends, and more pressure from school. Although blaming God is wrong, that was all I could think to do. After everything I had been through that day, I just wanted someone to blame and take my anger out on. I regretted it the moment I said it and immediately repented and prayed that my faith would be stronger and that I would have the courage to face my worldly problems. I realized that I only turn to God during bad times and not as much during good times. I resolved myself to think about God all the time, through good or bad, and to always be grateful with what I have. After the prayer on Monday, my whole week started to get better. I had felt the amazing feeling of God's grace and his forgiveness. I have learned to be more thankful and brave. Every emotional experience shapes me as a person and my faith. Without any true experiences, no one can really grow to have the best faith. -Josh
