大学英语218452.docVIP

一、 [1] When I was growing up, I was embarrassed to be seen with my father [N]. He was severely crippled and very short, and when we would walk [N] together, his hand on my arm for balance [N], people would stare. I would be ashamed of the unwanted attention. If he ever noticed or was bothered, he never let on. [2] It was difficult to coordinate our steps—his halting, mine impatient [N]—and because of that, we didnt say much as we went along. But as we started out, he always said, “You set the pace [N]. I will try to adjust to you. ” [3] Our usual walk was to or from the subway, which was how he got to work. He went to work sick [N], and despite [N] nasty weather. He almost never missed a day, and would make it to the office even if others could not. It was a matter of pride for him. [4] When snow or ice was on the ground, it was impossible for him to walk, even with help. At such times my sisters or I would pull him through the streets of Brooklyn [N], N.Y., on a childs sleigh to the subway entrance. Once there, he would cling to the handrail until he reached the lower steps that the warmer tunnel air kept ice-free [N]. In Manhattan [N] the subway station was the basement of his office building, and he would not have to go outside again until we met him in Brooklyn on his way home. [5] When I think of it now, I marvel at how much courage it must have taken for a grown man to subject himself to such indignity and stress. And I marvel at how he did it—without bitterness or complaint. [6] He never talked about himself as an object of pity, nor [N] did he show any envy of the more fortunate or able [N]. What he looked for in others was a “good heart”, and if he found one, the owner was good enough for him. [7] Now that I am older, I believe that is a proper standard by which to judge people [N], even though I still dont know precisely what a “good heart” is. But I know the times I dont have one myself. [8] Unable to engage in many activities, my f