there have been many times in my life in which God has influenced me and the things and people around me. there have been both highs and lows.  my family has suffered and overcome because of prayer.  i am a firm believer in miracles and the power of prayer.  i came through a public school system, not a private school, and feel that the fact helped me to become closer to God.  i met a variety of people in school and became close to few of them.  My closest friends were a group of Christians (all different denominations) which i thought was wonderful.  i still talk to them today but since we are spread throughout the country we do not remain as close as we were then.  being friends with them allowed me to understand more about other belief systems.  I believe that God is forgiving and accepting, because of this i dont feel like it is my place to judge anyone on anything. 
    one thing that makes me feel closest to God is rain, especially thunder storms.  i think they are extremely powerful and they calm me down.  i think i feel that way because of those first few seconds when the sky clears and is so beautiful and open.  but im not sure.  i also love the feel of the rain and wind.  i was one of those kids who refused to come in out of the rain, but never got sick.  which is a blessing. 
    I think im rambling, so im gonna stop now

God Bless
Laura