Name: Ashley Kate L.

Lupo Grade & Block: 11 – C

Reflection
1. How do you describe the experience? How do you feel during and after examen?

During the examen, I began to reflect about both the pleasant and unpleasant events in the
past weeks. I also felt that it was important to convey my feelings and longings for the Lord God.
Apart from that, it inspired me to seek for and welcome the movement of God's presence in my
life. And right after completing the examen, I've realized how significant God's presence is, in my
life. The continual doubts I had in him, heavy loads I felt, overthinking, and anxiety began to fade
after the examen as I realized that God did not bestow on me a perfect life, but rather a life filled
with trials to help me grow and become the person he knows will fulfill my need for happiness.

2. Where did I encounter God today/this week? Is God close or far from me?

In my own home, I encountered God. Despite the fact that I did not see him physically project
himself, I felt his all-powerful presence alongside me. Therefore, I can say that he was very close
to me. This week has been stressful for me because I've been concerned about getting low grades,
grades that aren't good enough to be recognized. He was, however, right beside me, encouraging
me in hushed tones that only I could hear. He's become the driving force behind my determination
to persevere and not give up on life; he gives me strength when I'm weak, he urges me to keep
moving forward, and to consider my failures as stepping stones towards my ultimate
transcendence.

3. What has been dominating my mind (thoughts) and heart (feelings/emotions) today/this
week?

Because our school is on a short academic break due to university days, this week has been
rather stress-free for me. Yet, the thought of my grades has left me feeling concerned and
anxious. I'm a grade-conscious person who grew up in an environment wherein I thirst
for academic validation because my grades were all I had. Apart from them, I have nothing to
prove to the world; my grades are the only thing that motivates me to strive harder. That's why,
obtaining low grades deeply affects me. It messes up my dreams and plans for the future.

4. For what/whom am I most grateful to God this day/week?

I am grateful because I am still here, living a life that not many could afford. I am glad to have
a body and a soul that gets a chance to achieve her dreams and aim for transcendence. Also, I
am very thankful for him because as I’ve said, this week has been very worrisome for me, but
because of his great presence, this week has somehow become lesser heavy in my side. It became
bearable because of him and I could not ask for more. With him, I am able to open my eyes and
appreciate my efforts more, I am reminded that whatever I feel is valid, and I am worth more than
my grades.

5. What return can I make for all God's goodness to me?

For all the things that he has done for me, the greatest return I can make is to strengthen my
belief and faith in him. Whatever occurs, I'll put my faith in the Lord's name. I'll continuously strive
to tighten the string that connects me to him so that I don't have any needless questions about
his presence. I'd also like to have a weekly examen as another means to solemnly return to him
since I want to spiritually communicate with him more and be able to converse with him in my own
little bubble.

6. What do I wish to ask God as I continue my journey?

I want him to be my constant companion and source of strength. I am not strong and have
never been strong, which is why I want him to stick by my side and be a source of strength for
me. I know that if I have him by my side, if he continues to lead and encourage me as I navigate
my way through this journey, I will be capable of making it through. And I'd like for him to assist
me in making judgments that will lead me down a path that I won't regret as I become older. A
path that will ensure my happiness and would not make me feel as though my journey was
absolutely meaningless. I also desire for him to open my eyes and help me see the world in a
larger context so that I can maintain my sights on my end objectives.