December 31, 2014

Mary B. (2003)

God has blessed my life tremendously over the past year, especially over the summer while I was in Germany.  First and foremost he blessed me with being able to go on the trip.  Once again, thank you to everyone who donated cans and bottles and prayed for my travels;  it was greatly appreciated.  German teenagers have very different lifestyles than American teenagers, especially me.  With the drinking age being 16, the majority of their fun is going to bars.  The last weekend I was there, they had a party for the American students.  Of course, there was drinking, smoking, and a lot of fun.  Before going I was very leery and unsure, but I started thinking of is as a learning experience.  I knew I was not going to drink, but I knew I would still have a good time.  I prayed a lot before going.  Throughout the night, I was reminded of why I was so glad I grew up without the influence of alcohol in my life.  Now at college, I am very thankful for the experience in Germany.  Every weekend at college there are huge parties that also make me mad, but my eyes are more opened to it.  Though it is bad and not right, I don’t get as mad about the drinking.

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Kimberly W. (2013)

In this time of Advent, as well as throughout the year, it is only with the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ that we can truly be prepared.  In our most trying times, we turn to The Lord for guidance, support, and understanding.  Without him, our lives would be empty and hopeless.  With him we find fulfillment, hope, strength, and unending love.  With him we are prepared for anything.