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 serious illness, he was initially determined 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 way for hope of saving your life.
As months went on and his health grew worse, I noticed an unexpected change in attitude that came over him．He had also been a happy person with a cheerful personality, but rather than give in to discouragement and self-pity, he took comfort in God and humanity. His talks focused on others rather than himself, and he spoke of the afterlife as something he was prepared for, believing that his concerned ancestors, including his mother and father, were there waiting for him.
During the last few months, weeks, and days of his life, he was kindly cared for by family, friends, his loving wife, who looked after both his physical and emotional needs, and workers from a local hospice （安養(yǎng)院） came to the home to regulate his medication and provide any other needed support. He didn't complain about his fate, and he willingly allowed others to serve him.
Indeed, one might think 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(屬性) in the lap of luxury(優(yōu)裕舒適的環(huán)境), and perhaps, such an experience is the greatest and final gift the illness can give those left behind.
1.Which word can best describe the man's initial reaction as soon as he was diagnosed with cancer?
A. Satisfied B. Surprised
C. Terrified D. Confused
2.What did the man do after he first learned of his illness?
A. He was operated on immediately
B. He retired from his job
C. He researched cancer treatments
D. He felt sad, doing nothing
3.What was the man's main source of comfort after several months with the disease?
A. His family and friends
B. The care from others
C. His doctors’ encouragement
D. His belief in humanity
4.What did the author learn from his friend’s story?
A. Giving more respect to the family and friends
B. Extending life as possible
C. Caring for yourself and enjoying luxury
D. Getting comfort from God
5.What does the author mainly want to tell?
A. All people will face death, and thus, we must prepare for it spiritually
B. Our characters can be strengthened by such an unpleasant situation
C. Families provide the best support system during such a crisis
D. People should help those who have got serious illness
