YEARS ago, a very rich man and his young son shared an interest in collecting art. They traveled around the world, collecting priceless works of art by famous artists like Picasso, Van Gogh and Monet.
The man became very lonely and sad. When war broke out, the son left to serve his country. After a few weeks, the old man received a letter saying his son had died while taking another soldier to a hospital.
One day, a soldier visited the old man and gave him a painting – it was a portrait of his son.
Though the world would never consider it a great work, the painting was important to the man.
The painting of his son became the old man’s most valuable item. He told his neighbors it was the greatest gift he had ever received. The following spring, the old man became ill and passed away.
All of the old man’s paintings would be sold at an auction. The auction began with a painting that was not on any of the buyers’ lists ... it was the painting of the old man’s son.
“Who will open the price at $100 ?” the auctioneer asked. Moments passed and no one spoke or raised their hand. Someone said: “Who cares about that painting? Let’s get on to the good ones.” More voices followed in agreement. “No, we must sell this one first,” replied the auctioneer. “Now, who will take the portrait of the son?”
Finally, a good friend of the old man spoke: “Will you take $10 for the painting? That’s all I have.” “Will anyone go higher?” called the auctioneer. After more silence he said: “Going once ... going twice ... sold!” The auctioneer looked at the crowd and announced that the whole auction was over. “According to the father’s will, whoever takes the son’s portrait gets the whole collection,” the auctioneer said.
Because of the father’s love, whoever took the son got it all.
1.Both the man and his son were interested in.
A. collecting artwork B. selling paintings
C. drawing famous artists D. reading stories about famous artists
2.The letter said the son.
A. left to serve his country B. was safe
C. was sent to a hospital. D. had died.
3.At the auction, the painting of the man’s son.
A. was popular B. was sold for $100
C. was sold for $10 D. wasn’t sold
4.The story wanted to tell us .
A. artwork is valuable B. a father’s love is priceless
C. don’t look down at small works of art D. nobody knows what will happen next
E.Ask your friends to introduce you to their friends
Are you a shy person? Does the thought of having a conversation make your stomach turn? That’s OK. Everyone is a little shy. This article may help you overcome (克服) your shyness.
1. This seems clear – the best way to meet people is to actively look for places out where you can meet people! Go to the dance party at your school or the Christmas get-together. Try to meet at least one person by the end of the night.
2. Even though this may sound strange – stand in front of a mirror or close your eyes, and then imagine yourself talking to someone – it is very helpful.
3. Making new friends is a great way to overcome shyness. Although that may sound useless, it really isn’t.
4. For example, if you like art, you can consider painting something for a party. It will be easier to make you feel comfortable. On the other hand, don’t be afraid to discover some new interests.
5. Take a moment to look at yourself. Are you the kind of person who wears dark clothes? This makes you very unapproachable (不可親近的). Wear brighter clothes. Go from wearing black, brown, and blue to wearing green, yellow and oranges. Remember, you don’t always have to change your look. You can just simply make your expression more friendly. Let people know that it’s OK to talk with you.