It started as a regular Monday morning. Bill got out of bed and was heading to the shower when his body suddenly went stiff as a board and he fell backward, hitting the floor. I rushed to his side and called 911. Despite the quick arrival of fire and ambulance teams, their attempts at CPR were unsuccessful.Days later, I began making funeral arrangements, choosing a nearby funeral home managed by Paul, someone I knew well. He guided me through the planning and execution of the arrangements. When his role was over, he shared profound advice: "After many years in this business, I've seen too many women become reclusive after their husbands' deaths. Good friends extended invitations that they declined because they were grieving (悲痛). Before long, people stopped making the effort to include them. So if people invite you to do things, please make an effort, even if it is just to make a brief appearance. JUST DO IT!"I was tested almost immediately. A friend had sent an invitation for her birthday party, just two weeks after Bill's death. It felt too soon, but Paul's advice echoed in my mind: just make an appearance.On Saturday, I decided to go. Arriving at the party, I greeted the host. After getting a glass of red wine, I mingled. Many expressed their condolences, and I caught up with familiar faces, even sharing a few laughs over funny stories. As I finished my wine, I realized I had stayed for almost ninety minutes, longer than planned. I felt like Cinderella at the ball as I say goodbye and drove home.Reflecting on the evening, I recognized that while it hadn't been easy, I had a good time. This would be my new normal. As more invitations arrived, I often considered whether to accept, but Paul's advice kept me saying "yes." I knew that if someone else faced loss, I could help them avoid isolation by paying it forward.
(1)
What happened in the author's home on a Monday morning?
A . Her husband slipped and died.
B . Her husband called 911 for a house fire.
C . Her husband left for a business trip.
D . Her husband had an unexpected accident.
(2)
What does the author mean by saying "I felt like Cinderella at the ball"?
A . She was excited and eager to socialize.
B . She wanted to leave early like Cinderella.
C . She felt out of place and uncomfortable.
D . She felt magical and got a new experience.
(3)
What lesson does the author want to convey in the last paragraph?
A . Isolation is the best way to grieve.
B . Wisdom from Paul should be shared.
C . It's better to forget about the past.
D . Social events are improper after a loss.
(4)
Which of the following is the best title for the text?
A . The Dark Side of Loss
B . The Power of Friendship
C . A Journey Towards Healing
D . The Day Everything Changed
答案: D
D
B
C