2 The Gratitude We Need
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Unit 1Warming up: Listen to a conversation and mark the following statements T(true), F(false) or NG(not given).1.The doctor has not called yet to tell themabout the woman’s being pregnant.2.The woman is more excited about having ababy than the man is.3.Both of the speakers are looking forward toteaching their child to be a loving person. Understanding short conversations.1. A. She’s much too cold and distant.B. She’s not loving toward her own family.C. She’s loving, but doesn't know how toshow it.D. She’s never expressed her love to him.2. A. Her father is much too tough.B. Her father is crazy about guns.C. Her father has provided for the family.D. Her father is admirable.3. A. Love requires one not to give up on aperson.B. Her brother’s nature keeps him from lovingothers.C. Her parents have reasons for not quittingon her brother.D. She always gets a second chance to do thingsright.4. A. Let them know they are important to her.B. Make sure they have enough money.C. Buy them only what’s necessary.D. Go and see them more often.5. A. What we can learn from love.B. What love means.C. How we can find love.D. How our ideas of love began.6. A. The importance of learning about love.B. The people we love in our lives.C. The age we find love in our lives.D. The gratitude we owe our parents.7. A. The man returns home late every day.B. The man doesn't understand the woman.C. The man doesn't love the woman anymore.D. The man loves the woman though he is lateagain.8. A. Shared all the love she had.B. Stayed with them and helped.C. Said she was disappointed in her daughter.D. Felt happy to look upon her children.9. A. Teacher and student.B. Mother and son.C. Father and daughter.D. Grandmother and grandson.10. A. Wife and husband.B. Employer and employee.C. Father and daughter.D. Mother and son.Understand a long conversation.1. A. The woman’s attitude toward herchildren.2. B. The impact of parent s’relationship ontheir child.3. C. Things a parent can learn about becomingloving.4. D. The differences between the woman andher parents.5. A. She doesn't care about her kids.6. B. She acts unlike other parents.7. C. .She treats her kids rudely.8. D. She leaves her kids alone.9. A. To be polite to others.10.B. To act lovingly toward others.11.C. To raise children with good discipline.12.D. To follow her parents’ example.13.A. Her children worry too much.14.B. Her children are able to show love.15.C. She knows enough about parenting.16.D. She has taught her kids about beingloving.17.A. Brother and sister.18.B. Father and daughter.19.C. Mother and son.20.D. Husband and wife. 21.Understanding a passage.1. A. Becoming a happy, successful, and lovingparent.2. B. Raising children to be happy,successful, and loving.3. C. Trying different methods of parenting.4. D. Child-raising at different times inhistory.5. A. The best way to raise children.6. B. The importance of being happy.7. C. The need for different parentingmethods.8. D. The goals they have for a child.9. A. Because all methods have positive andnegative points.10.B. Because parents succeed in differentareas of parenting.11.C. Because parents have different ideasabout a child’s nature.12.D. Because parents show different examplesof success.13.A. He will be more loving toward the child.14.B. He will tend to take more control.15.C. He will give the child more room.16.D. He will encourage the child to succeed.17.A. Parenting that includes lessons in loveguarantees success.18.B. Different methods should be triedbecause they all have positive and negative points.19.C. Children have a better chance to becomeloving if they’re loved.20.D. Successful parenting will make yourchild the person you want him to be.Understanding a radio program: Complete the following sentences with the word groups provided. Each word group will be used no more than once. Note: There are two extra word groups.New words:jerk 莽撞的人 newsletter通讯,简报toxic 有害的Word groups:about what she has about acceptanceas a writer protective of his familypretty good you just want morea journalism degree1 The speaker is a lifelong liberal with ___________________________________________ while her husband doesn't care for journalists.2. The speaker thinks that lives are ___________________________________________ for most of us, though we are told to demand more from lives.3. The speaker says she is a happy person mainly because she is honest with herself ___________________________________________ .4. When you are unhappy, you should ask yourself whether it is because you don't have what you need, or because ____________________________________.5. One of the good points about the speaker’s husband is that he is _________________________________Supplementary Listening: A long conversation.1. A. He is looking for help with his job.2. B. He is buying things at a store.3. C. He is ordering a drink.4. D. He is ordering food.5. A. In a German restaurant.6. B. In the home of the man’s mother.7. C. In a place selling beers.8. D. In a store in Germany.9. A. A cold German beer.10.B. A friendly person to talk to.11.C. A new wallet.12.D. A job that pays better.13.A To pay others for the work they do.14.B. That one should do his job well.15.C. To think about others first.16.D. That being nice has rewards.17.A. When she gets things for free.18.B. When she gets money from others.19.C. When she finds money on the floor.20.D. When she finds something she lost.Understanding a passage.1. A. Knowing the truth about a relationship.2. B. Living as the victim of violence.3. C. Hearing how many people are beaten.4. D. Finding a husband who is truly gentle.5. A. Between and million.6. B. Between and million.7. C. Between and million.8. D. Between and million.9. A. Men are often cruel in a relationship.10.B. Men might act violently toward a womanhe meets with.11.C. Most women go to the hospital when hurt.12.D. Most women aren’t honest aboutviolence.13.A. 31% B. 25%14.C. 26% D. 37%15.A. Because she is afraid of her partner.16.B. Because she loves her partner.17.C. Because of social prejudice. 18.D. Because she believes her partner lovesher.Compound dictation.Who doesn't love being in love A true love listens to you talk about work, lets you havethat last 1) of pie, and (usually) remembers to take out the trash.He is ready to forget all kinds of 2) . And he always thinks you’re3) , even without makeup.Scientists have long been keen to prove that love gives us health 4) too. Researcher can’t say for sure that a lover is more important than a loving family or warm friendship when it comes to 5) .But they are learning more about how a romanticpartner makes us stronger, with health gains that 6) from faster healing and bettercontrol over illnesses to living longer.The benefits of love are 7) and measurable. A study last year from the University of Pittsburgh found that women in good marriages have a much lower risk of heart diseasethan those in high-stress relationships. The National Love and Health Study 8).. The study shows that married people live longer,9) ,and even get pneumonia less frequently than singles. A new study from the University of Iowa alsofound that cancer patients with 10) were better able to fight off cancer. It seems that love helps people strengthen their immune systems.。
2017年4月高等教育自学考试全国统一命题考试英语(二)试卷(课程代码00015)本试卷共8页,满分100分,考试时间150分钟•考生答卷前必须将自己的姓名和准考证号写在答题卡上。
必须在答理卡上答,写在试卷上的答案无效。
第一部分:阅读判断(第1〜10题,每题1分,共10分)下面的短文后列出了10个句子,请根据短文的内容对每个句子作出判断:如果该句提供的是正确信息,选择A;如果该句提供的错误信息,选择B;如果该句的信息文中没有提及,迭择C,在答题卡相应位置上将答案选项涂黑。
The Thinking Habit That Changed My LifeI remember one evening three years ago, when my life was very different.1 was overweight. I was deeply in debt. I was a smoker. I felt hopeless and couldn’t change anything.Then I looked up at the sky and thought what a miracle life is. AndI resolved to list the good things in my life. I had a wonderful wife.1 had five amazing children. I could sec and appreciate the beauty of the world around me. The list went on, but you get the idea. Even when things seemed terrible for me, actually I was OK.That night I resolved to be grateful for what I had, and for the people in my life. I started the habit of gratitude. Now many people consider it unimportant. I'm here to tell you that it's very important. It changes lives.Now I appreciate my wife Eva more. I feel good about having her in my life. And we have deepened our relationship. I also appreciate my kids more. Instead of criticizing them, I tend to notice their loveliness, curiosity and humor.to others around me, at work and everywhere else, because instead of seeing the faults in everyone, I see the good, and am grateful for them.I need less,because instead of thinking about what I don't have, I am grateful for what I do have. Each and every moment becomes cause for gratitude, and life becomes easier.Without the habit of gratitude, we tend to complain and see the bad in people and things. We can't change that at once, but you can do something. For example, you can start with a small action. Really feel the happiness that something o someone is in your life, or take a moment to make a list of the things in your life that you're thankful for.was unhappy with my life three years ago.A. TrueB. FalseC. Not Givendrank every day and couldn't stop it.A. TrueB. FalseC. Not Givenwas unable to support my family.A. TrueB. FalseC. Not Givenevening I came to a new understanding of my life.A. TrueB. FalseC. Not Givenpeople value the habit of gratitude nowadays.A. TrueB. FalseC. Not GivenI have a closer relationship with my wife.A. TrueB. FalseC. Not Givenam now more strict with my kids.A. TrueB. FalseC. Not Givenlike making friends with people around me.A. TrueB. FalseC. Not Givennow try to see the good in others.A. TrueB. FalseC. Not Givensmall action doesn't work to change one’s bad habit.A. TrueB. FalseC. Not Given第二部分:阅读选择(第11〜15题,每题2分,共10分)阅读下面短文,请从短文后所铪各题的4个选项(A、B、C、D)中选出1个最佳选项,并在答题卡相应位置上将该项涂黑。
When it comes to expressing gratitude for the life we lead,our parents often stand at the forefront of our thoughts.They are the ones who have nurtured us,guided us,and supported us through the various stages of our lives.Here is a detailed composition on the life of our parents and the gratitude we owe them.The Sacrifices of Our ParentsOur parents have made countless sacrifices for us,often going unnoticed.From the moment we were born,they have been there to provide us with everything we need.They have worked tirelessly to ensure that we have a comfortable life,often putting our needs before their own.The early mornings,the late nights,and the weekends spent working extra hours are all testaments to their dedication.The Importance of EducationOne of the most significant contributions our parents make to our lives is their emphasis on education.They have encouraged us to learn,grow,and explore the world around us. They have attended parentteacher meetings,helped with homework,and supported our academic aspirations.Their belief in the power of knowledge has shaped our understanding of the world and our place in it.Teaching Life LessonsBeyond academics,our parents have taught us invaluable life lessons.They have shown us the importance of honesty,kindness,and respect.They have guided us through difficult times,helping us to understand that failure is a part of life and that it is through these challenges that we grow stronger.Cultivating Our Interests and PassionsOur parents have always been our biggest cheerleaders,encouraging us to pursue our interests and passions.Whether it was a love for sports,music,art,or any other hobby, they have been there to support us,providing the resources and encouragement needed to excel.The Unconditional LovePerhaps the most significant aspect of our parents lives that we should be grateful for is their unconditional love.They have loved us without judgment,accepted us for who we are,and have always been there for us,no matter what.This love is a constant source ofcomfort and reassurance.The Role of GratitudeGratitude is a powerful emotion that can transform our lives and the lives of those around us.By expressing our gratitude to our parents,we not only acknowledge their contributions but also strengthen our bond with them.It is important to let them know how much we appreciate their efforts,their sacrifices,and their love.Ways to Show GratitudeShowing gratitude can take many forms.It can be as simple as saying thank you,writing a heartfelt letter,or spending quality time with them.It can also involve helping with household chores,listening to their stories,or just being there for them when they need us. ConclusionIn conclusion,our parents have played an integral role in shaping who we are today. Their life,filled with sacrifices and dedication,deserves our utmost respect and gratitude. By acknowledging their contributions and expressing our thanks,we not only honor them but also enrich our own lives with a deeper sense of appreciation and love.Let us make it a point to show our gratitude to our parents,for they are the foundation upon which our lives are built.。
We Need GratitudeA.J.CroninOn a fine afternoon in New York, I got into a taxi. From the driver's expression and the way he slammed in his gears, I could tell that he was upset. I asked him what was the trouble. "I've got good reason to be sore," he growled. "One of my fares left a wallet in my cab this morning. Nearly three hundred bucks in it. I spent more than an hour trying to trace the guy. Finally I found him at his hotel. He took the wallet without a word and glared at me as though I'd meant to steal it.""Not a cent. But it wasn't the dough I wanted..." he fumbled, then exploded, "If the guy had only said something..."Because his helpful, honest act had not been appreciated, that cabdriver's day was poisoned, and I knew he would think twice before rendering a similar service. The need for gratitude is something we all feel, and denial of it can do much to harm the spirit of kindness and cooperation.During World War II a mother in Cincinnati received a letter from her son in the army in which he spoke of a woman in a village in Normandy who had taken him into her home when he was wounded and hungry, and hidden him from the Germans. Later on, unhappily, the boy was killed in the Ardennes offensive. Yet the mother was moved by an irresistible intention. She saved up for two years, crossed the Atlantic and located the village referred to by her son. After many inquiries, she found the woman who had sheltered her son—the wife of an impoverished farmer—and pressed a package into her hand. It was the gold wristwatch her son had received on his graduation, the only object of real value the boy had ever possessed. The mother's act of gratitude so touched people's hearts that it has become something of a legend in and around the village. It has done more than fine speeches to foster good feeling toward Americans.Gratitude is the art of receiving gracefully, of showing appreciation for every kindness, great and small. Most of us do not fail to show our pleasure when we receive hospitality, gifts and obvious benefits, but even here we can perfect our manner of showing gratitude by making it as personal and sincere as possible. Recently, when touring in southern Italy with my wife, I sent to a friend in Connecticut several bottles of a local wine which had taken our fancy. It was a trifling gift, yet to our surprise, instead of the conventional letter of thanks, we receive a phonograph record. When we played it, we heard our friend's voice speaking after dinner, describing how he and his guests had enjoyed the wine and thanking us for our thoughtfulness. It was pleasant to have this unusual proof that our gift had been appreciated.Gratitude is sometimes more than a personal affair. My son, studyingmedicine at McGill University, told me of a patient brought into hospital in Montreal whose life was saved by a blood transfusion. When he was well again he asked: "Isn't there any way I can discover the name of the donor and thank him?" He was told that names of donors are never revealed. A few weeks after his discharge he came back to give a pint of his own blood. Since then he has returned again and again for the same purpose. When a surgeon commented on this splendid record of anonymous service, he answered simply: "Someone I never knew did it for me. I'm just saying 'thanks'".It is a comforting thought that gratitude can be not merely a passing sentiment but a renewal which can, in some instances, persist for a lifetime. A husband who recalls appreciatively some generous or unselfish act on his wife's part, or a wife who never forgets the gifts her husband has given her, does much to keep the domestic wheels spinning smoothly. W.H. Hudson, British author and naturalist, has written: "One evening I brought home a friend to share our usual evening meal. Afterward he said to me:‘you are fortunate to have a wife who, despite ill health and children to look after, cooks such excellent meals.' That tribute opened my eyes and taught me to show gratitude for my wife's day-to-day heroism, which I had hitherto taken for granted."It is, above all, in the little things that the grace of gratitude should be most employed. The boy who delivers our paper, the milkman, the mailman, the barber, the waitress at a restaurant, the elevator operator —all oblige us in one way or another. By showing our gratitude we make routine relationships human and render monotonous tasks more agreeable.A patient of mine in London who worked as a bus conductor once confided to me, "I get fed up with my job sometimes. People grumble, bother you, haven't got the right change for their tickets. But there's one lady on my bus morning and evening, and she always thanks me in a particularly friendly way when I take her ticket. I like to think she's speaking for all the passengers. It helps me to keep smiling."Arnold Bennett had a publisher who boasted about the extraordinary efficiency of his secretary. One day Bennett said to her, "Your employer claims that you are extremely efficient. What is your secret?" "It's not my secret," the secretary replied. "It's his." Each time she performed a service, no matter how small, he never failed to acknowledge it. Because of that she took infinite pains with her work.Some persons refrain from expressing their gratitude because they feel it will not be welcome. A patient of mine, a few weeks after his discharge from the hospital, came back to thank his nurse. "I didn't come back sooner," he explained, "because I imagined you must be bored to death with people thanking you.""On the contrary," she replied, "I am delighted you came. Few realize how much we need encouragement and how much we are helped by those whogive it."Gratitude is something of which none of us can give too much. For on the smiles, the thanks we give, our little gestures of appreciation, our neighbors build up their philosophy of life.一个晴朗的下午,我在纽约上了一辆出租车。
我们要感谢别人的作文英语Gratitude is a virtue that we should all cultivate in our lives. It is important to express our appreciation to others for their kindness, support, and help. In this essay, I would like to discuss the importance of gratitude and how we can express it to others.Firstly, gratitude is important because it helps us to build strong relationships with others. When we express our appreciation to others, we show them that we value and respect them. This can help to strengthen our relationships with them and create a sense of trust and loyalty. In addition, expressing gratitude can also help to improve our own mental and emotional well-being. Studies have shownthat practicing gratitude can lead to increased happiness, better sleep, and reduced stress levels.Secondly, there are many ways that we can express gratitude to others. One of the simplest ways is to say "thank you". Whether it is for a small favor or a biggesture, expressing gratitude verbally can go a long way in showing our appreciation. Another way to express gratitude is through acts of kindness. This could be as simple as offering to help someone with a task or sending athoughtful message or gift. Finally, we can also express gratitude through writing. Writing a thank-you note or letter can be a meaningful way to express our appreciation and show someone how much we value them.In conclusion, gratitude is an important virtue that we should all strive to cultivate in our lives. Expressing gratitude to others can help to strengthen our relationships, improve our own well-being, and create a sense of positivity and kindness in the world. I encourage everyone to take the time to express their appreciation to others and to cultivate a mindset of gratitude in their daily lives.。
读后续写09 脱险类(火灾、洪水、迷路篇)(解析版)读后续写中会遇到火灾,水灾,森林迷路等内容的故事,如果涉及到对生命造成了一定的威胁的情节,我们就把这种类型的文章归为“脱险”型。
在往年高考真题中,曾经就考过三次:拍摄北极熊遇险;父子骑马迷路;骑车游玩遇狼脱险。
一、思维导图第一步:救人之前(恶劣环境+负面情绪)1、恶劣环境(1)一到晚夏,池塘就会被绿色的起泡浮渣覆盖。
有时候,池塘里冒出一阵强烈的难闻的味道。
In late summer, the pond would be covered by a green and bubbly scum(起泡的浮渣). Sometimes a strong, unpleasant smell rose from it.(2)在池塘中间,冰面忽然露出了一条裂缝。
In the middle of the pond, the ice gave way with a sudden crack.(3)空气里弥漫着浓厚灼热的味道。
A thick burning smell filled the air.2、负面情绪:害怕(1) Watching the shore in the distance, I felt powerless(无力的) as if we were broken tiny boats at the mercy of strong waves.(2) Exhausted and cold, the thought that we might die here flashed across my mind,which made me quiver with an uncontrollable terror/horror/fright(难以控制地发抖)(4)Looking at the vast sea, I felt a sense of fear surging through my whole body (在身体涌动)1、.挣扎努力(1)Tom looked thoughtful(若有所思)(2)“We need to think out a way!” I muttered (喃喃自语), scratching my head.(绞尽脑汁)(3)...,We swam tooth and nail(全力以赴地).2. 救人有关的惊险场面描写(1) The next thing I knew I was hanging on to the edge of a hole in the ice by arms outstretched on the ice. From my shoulders down I hung in icy water.(2) I tried to climb out of the hole, but when I got a knee on the ice, it broke like window glass(像玻璃一样破裂). (浙江省十校联盟考试续写2020.10)(3)As the coat became completely wet, it dragged me down(把我拖下水). I was tired of the struggle and rested with my arms stretched out on the ice.(浙江省十校联盟考试续写2020.10)3.实施救援的过程(1)“帮我把西蒙斯弄下车!”诺伍德对惊慌失措的朋友们大声喊道。
►第04讲脱险类(讲义)_____________________________________________________________________读后续写中会遇到描写森林迷路、地震、水灾、火灾等内容的故事,如果涉及到对生命造成一定威胁的情节,我们就把这类文章归为“脱险型”。
在近年高考真题中,如2023年浙江卷1月蜂鸟脱困;2020年浙江卷1月遇到北极熊;2018年浙江卷6月森林遇险。
如何续写好此类文章呢?清代袁枚《随园诗话》中说过,“文似看山不喜平”,就提出过写文章好比观赏山峰那样,不喜欢平坦,喜欢起伏。
而读后续写中,情节的跌宕起伏就是一种极好的提升文章整体水平的手法。
这种转折即由“负”变“正”;或由“正”变“负”。
最终体现正能量的结局,就是由“正”变“负”。
【写作步骤】一恶劣环境来铺垫1.The water was deep and running fast from a big rainstorm the night before.前天晚上下了一场大暴雨,水又深又急。
2.The water twisted and turned him, scraping him against the rocks as he was carried along. Water gushed into his mouth and up his nose.水流不停地扭动着他,旋转着他,把他蹭在岩石上。
水灌进他的嘴里,没过了他的鼻子。
3. What's worse, he didn't have any food or water with him, let alone his cell phone or other supplies.更糟糕的是,他没有任何食物和水,更不要说他的手机和其他日用品。
4. The sky is overcast, darkened with gloomy cloud s.天空阴沉,乌云密布。
节约粮食活动英语作文80词篇 1Last week, our school organized an activity to advocate saving food. It was a really eye-opening experience for all of us! When I was in the school cafeteria, I saw a lot of food being wasted by my classmates. Some just took too much and couldn't finish it, while others threw away food carelessly. How could they do this? Food is so precious!Then, we participated in a campaign in the community to spread the knowledge and methods of saving food. We told the residents that every grain is the fruit of hard work. We should cherish it! We also shared some practical tips, like buying just the right amount of food and making good plans for meals.This activity made me deeply realize that saving food is not only about being thrifty but also about respecting the efforts of farmers and caring for our environment. Let's all take action and make saving food a habit! How important it is to do so!篇 2I still remember that remarkable day when I participated in the activity to save food. It was an experience that truly changed my perspective.I went to a farm and witnessed the toil and sweat of farmers as they worked under the burning sun to grow our food. The hard work involved in plowing the land, sowing the seeds, and waiting patiently for the harvest made me realize how precious every grain is.Back at home, I made a detailed plan to save food. I decided to measure the amount of food I needed precisely and never waste a single bite. And I stuck to itstrictly!Friends, think about it! How much effort goes into bringing that plate of food to our table? We should cherish it! Let's act now and make every effort to save food. Don't we have the responsibility to do so?篇 3When I walked into the school cafeteria one day, I was shocked to discover the astonishing amount of food being wasted. Every day, it seemed like a mountain of uneaten meals was being thrown away. This made me wonder how we could be so oblivious to such waste!The reality of global hunger is truly terrifying. There are millions of people out there who don't have enough to eat, while we casually discard perfectly good food. How can this be right? We need to open our eyes and see the harm caused by this waste.Let's take action! We can start by only taking what we can eat and making sure to finish every bite. We can also encourage our friends and classmates to do the same. Remember, every little bit counts! Why not make a change today and start saving food for a better world?篇 4In our modern society, the issue of food conservation has become increasingly significant. Let me share with you some contrasting scenarios that highlight the importance of saving food.In poor areas, people struggle to get enough to eat. They count every grain of rice, knowing that a missed meal could mean a day of hunger. Meanwhile, in the cities, we often see plates piled high with uneaten food in restaurants or buffets. How can such waste exist when others are starving?Remember the times when food was scarce? People cherished every morsel, and a loaf of bread was a precious treasure. But now, in our abundant lives, we take food for granted and throw it away without a second thought.Shouldn't we be more conscious of our actions? Saving food is not just about not wasting; it's about respecting the hard work of farmers and showing compassion for those in need. Let's make a change and always remember the value of every bite we take!篇 5In our daily lives, the act of saving food is not just a simple habit; it holds profound cultural and moral significance. In traditional Chinese culture, respecting and conserving food has always been a cherished value. Think about the ancient farmers who toiled under the sun to bring forth every grain. Their hard work should inspire us to cherish every morsel.Saving food is closely tied to our personal moral cultivation. How can we claim to be virtuous individuals if we waste resources that others have worked so hard to produce? Isn't it a reflection of our lack of gratitude and responsibility when we throw away food carelessly?Let's look at the current situation. In many places, excessive food is wasted at banquets and in restaurants. This not only squanders precious resources but also goes against the moral principles we should uphold.So, let's take action! Every small step we take to save food is a contribution to a better world. Let's make saving food a part of our lives and pass on this valuable tradition to future generations. How wonderful it would be if everyone could truly understand and practice this!。
The Gratitude We NeedOn a fine afternoon in New York, I got into a taxi. From the driver‟s expression and the way he slammed in his gears, I could tell that he was upset. I asked him what was the trouble. “I‟ve got good reason to be sore,” he growled. “On e of my fares left a wallet in my cab this morning. Nearly three hundred ducks in it. I spent more than an hour trying to trace the guy. Finally I found him at his hotel. He took the wallet without a word and glared at me as though I‟d meant to steal it.”“He didn‟t give you a reward?” I exclaimed.“Not a cent. But it wasn‟t the dough I wanted…”he fumbled, then exploded, “If the guy had only said something…”Because his helpful, honest act had not been appreciated, that cabdriver‟s day was poisoned, and I knew he would think twice before rendering a similar service. The need for gratitude is something we all feel, and denial of it can do much to harm the spirit of kindness and cooperation. During World War II a mother in Cincinnati received a letter from her son in the army in which he spoke of a woman in a village in Normandy who had taken him into her home when he was wounded and hungry, and hidden him from the Germans. Later on, unhappily, the boy was killed in the Ardennes offensive. Yet the mother was moved by an irresistible intention. She saved up for two years, crossed the Atlantic and located the village referred to by her son. After many inquires, she found the woman who had sheltered her son-the wife of an impoverished farmer-and pressed a package into her hand. It was the gold wristwatch her son had received on his graduation, the only object of real value the boy had ever possessed. The mother‟s act of gratitude so touched people‟s hearts that it has become something of a legend in and around the village. It has done more than fine speeches to foster good feeling toward Americans.Gratitude is the art of receiving gracefully, of showing appreciation for every kindness, great and small. Most of us do not fail to show our pleasure when we receive hospitality, gifts and obvious benefits, but even here we can perfect our manner of showing gratitude by making it as personal and sincere as possible. Recently, when touring in southern Italy with my wife, I sent to a friend in Connecticut several bottles of a local wine which had taken our fancy. It was a trifling gift, yet to our surprise, instead of the conventional letter of thanks, we receive a phonograph record. When we played it, we heard our friend‟s voice speaking after dinner, describing how he and his guests had enjoyed the wine and thanking us for our thoughtfulness. It was pleasant to have this unusual proof that our gift had been appreciated.Gratitude is sometimes more than a personal affair. My son, studying medicine at McGill University, told me of a patient brought into hospital in Montreal whose life was saved by a blood transfusion. When he was well again he asked:”Isn‟t there any way I can discover the name of the donor and thank him?” he was told that names of donors are never revealed. A few weeks after his discharge he came back to give a pint of his own blood. Since then he has returned again and again for same purpose. When a surgeon commented on this splendid record of anonymous service, he answered simply:”Someone I never knew did it for me. I‟m just saying …thanks‟”.It is a comforting thought that gratitude can be not merely a passing sentiment but a renewal which can, in some instances, persist for a lifetime. A husband who recalls appreciatively some generous or unselfish act on h is wife‟s part, or a wife who never forgets the gifts her husband has given her, does much to keep the domestic wheels spinning smoothly. W.H.Hudson, British author and naturalist, has written:”One evening I brought home a friend to share our usual evening meal. Afterward he said to me:‟ You are fortunate to have a wife who, despite ill health and children tolook after, cooks such excellent meals.‟ That tribute opened my eyes and taught me to show gratitude for my wife‟s day-to-day heroism, which I had hit herto taken for granted.”It is, above all, in the little things that the grace of gratitude should be most employed. The boy who delivers our paper, the milkman, the mailman, the barber, the waitress at a restaurant, the elevator operator-all oblige us in one way or another. By showing our g…ratitude we make routine relationships human and render monotonous tasks more agreeable.A patient of mine in London who worked as a bus conductor once confided to me, “I get fed up with my job sometimes. People grumbl e, bother you, haven‟t got the right change for their tickets. But there‟s one lady on my bus morning and evening, and she always thanks me in a particularly friendly way when I take her ticket. I like to think she‟s speaking for all passengers. It helps m e to keep smiling.”Arnold Bennett had a publisher who boasted about the extraordinary efficiency of his secretary. One day Bennett said to her, “Your employer claims that you are extremely efficient. What is your secret?” “It‟s not my secret,” the secretary replied. “It‟s his.” Each time she performed a service, no matter how small, he never failed to acknowledge it. Because of that she took infinite pains with her work.Some persons refrain from expressing their gratitude because they feel it will not be welcome. A patient of mine, a few weeks after his discharge from the hospital, came back to thank his nurse. “I didn‟t come back sooner,” he explained, “because I imagined you must be bored to death with people thanking you.”“On the contrary,” she replied, “I am delighted you came. Few realize how much we need encouragement and how much we are helped by those who give it.”Gratitude is something of which none of us can give too much. For on the smiles, the thanks we give, our little gestures of appreciation, our neighbors build up their philosophy of life.What difference can gratitude make in people‟s daily life?。