Hi, Blessedchild,
You received a lot of good advice. Let’s see if we can put it in order and set some priorities - I am a retired nursing instructor and this may be to the point.
The only “F” that is going to make a difference is the one you give yourself before the Throne of God when you are judged. The consequence of that failure are immediate, most severe and are eternal. Now, that is failure.
For these human struggles of ours - set one long term goal for yourself. And, then apply yourself so that in everything you do you see yourself working toward this goal. Now, this is what separates the one’s who succeed from the guys on the corner that just look at the tops of their shoes and say, “I could have done that…” while their voice trails off.
After you have set your goal - give yourself the time to complete it! Each one of has 168 hours per week (24 x 7) evenly divided into seven days. Make a table and identify each and every hour. Then in each hour cell, write down what you will need to do to fulfill your real goal… not getting that final “F”! Then look at your family responsibilities. Then look at your physical responsibilities (eating, sleeping, working, going to school etc) Now look at all of those empty cells you have left - all of this can be devoted to study … but, that is not realistic. The rule of thumb is that for every 1 hour of class time you need to have at least 2 and sometimes 3 (depending on the course and how well you can retain the content) hours of study per week. It looks like more time will be needed for this course you are doing poorly in.
Finally, talk to your Instructor and find out what he thinks would be helpful. The semester just started, so I am guessing this was your first test. My guess is that you have the time to pull your grades up - but, only if you work at it and not drop the ball - again.
There is a lot to life - and discouragement happens to everyone. You have a certain amount of control here in that you determine how much you are going to study and the grade tends to be just a reflection of the amount of successful study time you have given this course. Whining about this sub-standard grade is not the answer. And, blaming God totally misses the point. When asked how much God loves you - He held out His Hands - and they were nailed to the Cross. When you are inclined to whine and blame God - I suggest you hold on to a crucifix and pray.
Now, get your priorities straight, set your goal, make your weekly-table - and do the work you need to do to pass this course.
God bless
It would be awful if you didn’t even have that chance.
