I once had a friend that was diagnosed with terminal cancer, and the news that he might only live up to six months was a great shock to him, his family, and his friends. However, in spite of the
dire1 prognosis, he was
initially2 determined3 to look into all available treatments that might cure or extend his life. I think that when you find yourself in such situations, you tend to look up every possible avenue for hope of preserving your life.
As the months progressed and his health grew worse, I noticed an unexpected change in attitude that came over him. He had also been a
jovial4 person with an upbeat personality, but rather (than) give in to discouragement and self-pity, he took comfort his faith in God and humanity. His conversations focused on others rather than himself, and he
spoke5 of the afterlife as something he was prepared for, believing that his deceased ancestors, including his mother and father, were there waiting for him.
During the last few months, weeks, and days of his life, he was
kindly6 cared for by family, friends, his loving wife, who looked after both his physical and emotional needs, and workers from a local hospice came to the home to help regulate his medication and provide any other needed support. He didn't complain about his fate, and he willingly allowed others to serve him, realizing they were the
benefactors7 of something more.
Indeed, one might ponder why God allows death and suffering in our world, but for me, such experiences taught me to value family more and kindness for others. You often can't learn these important attributes in the lap of luxury, and perhaps, such an experience is the greatest and final gift the terminally ill can give those left behind.
1. Which word best describes the man's initial reaction right after he found out that he had been diagnosed with cancer?
A. shock
B. anger
C. self-pity
2. What did the man do after he first learned of his illness?
C. He researched cancer treatments.
3. After several months with the disease, what was the man's main source of
consolation10?
A. his family and friends
B. his belief in God
C. his doctors' encouragement
4. Who was mainly responsible for checking on and adjusting the man's medications in the home?
A. relatives
B. his wife
C. a hospice
5. According to the story, what can we learn from such difficult and emotional experiences?
A. All people will face death, and thus, we must prepare for it spiritually.
B. Our characters can be strengthened by such adversity.
C. Families provide the best support system during such a crisis.
正确答案：
1. shock
2. He researched cancer treatments.
3. his belief in God
4. a hospice
5. Our charcters can be strengthened by such adversity.
