could anyone paraphrase this two sentences for me?

Well, I think it's written pretty succinctly already, and I'm not sure what the point of paraphrasing is if you have to do each sentence individually. But since I'm assuming that's the assignment:

Writing doesn't just help you learn, it helps you grow. When you write about a topic, it gives you insight on past experiences. Writing forces you to examine your beliefs. It requires that you reflect on your values.

I would really paraphrase it this way though:

Writing doesn't just help you learn, it helps you grow. When you write effectively about a topic, you gain insight in to your experiences and are forced to examine your beliefs and reflect on your values.

He's saying he was in in a mood where he even found miserable weather somewhat pleasing......presumably because it reflected his gloomy state.

i see thanks a million

You are welcome.