2 . It has been difficult to sit on the bench most of the time, watching my team from the sideline. I always _______ why I am not good enough to be on the floor. After endless hours of work and devotion, _______ myself through drill after drill, the last thing I want is to be a cheerleader. The feeling of being _______ is sometimes too much and drives me to _______ on the spot. I often feel as though my _______ are wasted and my time is eaten away, devoted to _______ . It is heartbreaking to be a spectator(观看者) for the game I love, knowing that no one has enough faith to give me the chance to _______ on the floor. Tears well up (涌出), but I _______ them back. I shouldn't be so _______ over something so silly.

Away from the game, it's easier to put my thoughts together, rather than letting my______________ drive my reasoning. I consider ____________ I am where I am. I have played basketball my whole life. I have a strong ____________ for the sport and always have. There is nothing like the ____________ of playing: the swish (嗖嗖声) of the net, the sweat rolling off my cheeks, even the bruise (青肿) are battle wounds worn ____________ after every game.

Even if I don't play much, I participate in every game. I am part of a team of girls who ____________together like a family. I am there for them, ____________ they are for me.

Should I move on? Or should I stay with my team and continue playing basketball ____________great passion just a little longer? The ____________ isn't difficult when I consider the joy that being a part of a team ____________ me - not just any team, but my team. I love basketball and my teammates. When I think about that, my ____________ from the bench really isn't so bad after all

3 . A Few Active Listening Guidelines

Listening is probably the most important element of interpersonal communication. Our

ability to listen affects the quality of all of our relationships, and not just at home with our family and friends――it can also affect our relationships and interactions(交流) on the job, as well as the effectiveness and quality of our work。

Listening is not something that comes naturally or easily for most of us.    1    Active listening means the difference between simply hearing, and listening with the intention to truly understand. It is a subtle but important distinction.

1. Give focused attention

Try to minimize outside disturbance. Turn down the noise, and put down or step away from what you're doing if possible.    2    Don't watch the clock, keep moving your hands or go over your to-do list for later.

2. Keep eye contact

Direct eye contact shows your attention and intention to listen.    3    Be reasonable, but try not to let your eyes wander to whatever is going on around you.

3. Reflect back

Restate, but don t repeat word for word. Paraphrase (解释) what you think the other part Is saying with responses such as: "What I'm hearing is ."or"Let me see if I'm following you……"    4    

4. Respond appropriately.

    5    Share your thoughts, comprehension and fee lings in a clear, but respectful and considerate manner even if you disagree.

Active listening is a model for good communication. Remember that listening is not just to gather information and share ideas, but also to gain viewpoints and understanding. It takes practice to develop active listening skills, and it's a habit that has to be strengthened. Remind yourself that the goal of conversation is not merely to trade words, but to truly understand what the other party is saying and to be understood in turn.