Beautiful Birthmarks: The Power of Acceptance
Whenever you hear the word “birthmark (胎记)”, you probably think of one of those black or brown spots you have somewhere on your body. However, for me, it’s completely different — I have them both on my lips and inside my mouth, which make them quite visible and, to me, ugly. When
I was young, these birthmarks kept making me feel extremely awkward and self-conscious (难为情的). As these birthmarks always drew a lot of attention, people often asked me, “What are those black marks on your lips?” When I told people that they were birthmarks, they usually said, “How strange！”
In pictures, I used to hide my birthmarks by pursing (噘起) my lips, so I would not have to deal with people’s questions. As I was growing up, the situation didn’t get any better. In the school, my classmates would always tease me, making me feel hurt and helpless. In society, I often encountered individuals who would inquire about my birthmarks even before they knew my name.
Such experiences left me feeling disheartened. I felt like people judged me by my appearance without considering my personality.
My birthmarks are caused by a genetic condition from my mom’s side of the family. My mom’s mom has birthmarks on her lips, and my mom’s uncle and my uncle have some on their bodies. I used to try to cover them up with makeup, but it never looked good. I even consulted a doctor, wanting to have surgery to remove them. But when imagining the process, I would get nervous and eventually give up.
Whenever I cried to my mom about them, she would always comfort me and say, “Learn to accept them and see them as beautiful birthmarks.” However, it wasn’t easy for me to accept my own birthmarks. Every time I showed my birthmarks, people would look at me with strange eyes. I began to regret why I had given up on the surgery and chosen to accept my birthmarks.
注意：1. 续写词数应为 150 词左右。2. 请按如下格式在相应位置作答。
Paragraph 1:
One day, I met my cousin, who also had a large birthmark on his arm._
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From then on, when I met people, I began to change myself.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________One sunny Sunday morning, Lily woke up to an unusual silence in the house. Normally, the smell of pancakes would float through the air as her mom busied herself in the kitchen, but today there was nothing. Concerned, Lily decided to check on her mom.
She knocked softly on her bedroom door. “Mom, are you okay?” she called out. A raspy voice responded, “I’m not feeling too well, sweetheart. I’ve caught a bad cold. I don’t want you getting sick too. You can fix yourself some toast for breakfast, and I’ll stay in bed.”
Lily felt sympathy for her mom. She must be feeling really under the weather if she couldn’t even make breakfast. Determined to help, Lily decided to take charge of the morning routine. After enjoying her simple breakfast of toast, Lily noticed the sink (洗涤池) was filled with dishes. Without hesitation, she rolled up her sleeves and began washing them, just as her mom usually did. She washed each plate and glass thoroughly until they were shiny, determined to make the kitchen look as tidy as possible.
But Lily wanted to do more to help her mom feel better. Suddenly, inspiration struck. Lily remembered her mom mentioning that she had planned to plant flowers in the garden today. Maybe if she finished the job for her, it would bring a smile to her face. With newfound purpose, Lily put on her gardening gloves and headed outside. As she worked, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction as she carefully planted each flower, imagining her mom’s delight when she saw them producing flowers.
注意：1. 续写词数应为150个左右；
2. 请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
Entering the garden, she noticed that the leaves of some of the plants were turning yellow.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Later that afternoon, feeling a bit better, Lily’s mom stepped into the garden.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________On the walk home from school, my friend, Cherry, happily said, “Tomorrow is Mother’s Day. I’ve been saving up for the past month and plan to buy my mother the perfume (香水) she’s been wanting for so long.” Her excitement made me realize that I hadn’t prepared anything special yet. But I only had a little money left. I began to regret spending so much on snacks every day. “See you next week!” Cherry’s voice pulled me back to reality. We waved goodbye as she went into a perfume shop.
I continued walking along the road, carefully thinking about what gift I should choose. I planned to buy something like flowers or chocolate, but now it seemed like those were way too simple. Therefore, I pushed open the door to a mall (商场) and tried to find the perfect gift. The bright lights illuminated (照亮) the collection of various goods. I picked up a lipstick (口红) but immediately (立即) put it back after seeing its price. I could never afford that! Then I walked into another shop and saw a lovely cup. This cup, besides being beautiful, would also remind my mother to drink water. It’d be a wonderful gift. I picked it up and turned it over to see the price listed, hoping it was not too expensive. But once again, I couldn’t afford it even with all the money that I had. Feeling sad, I continued to wander around the shops. Time flew by quickly, and before I knew it, the sky began to darken, so I had to go home.
Since there was no time or money for me to pick out a gift, I decided to make a simple card. When I finished, the clock on my bedroom wall struck 11 p.m. I held up the card, examining its hardcover, handwritten letters, and the tiny pictures I’d drawn of my mom and me. It’s probably never going to compare to the expensive gifts that my friends bought for their mothers, I thought sadly.
注意：1. 续写词数应为150左右；2. 请按如下格式在相应位置作答。
Soon, morning came, and it was time to give my mother my handmade card.
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“I love this card!” My mother said excitedly.
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I walked all the way home from school with my eyes planted on the ground. It had to be around here somewhere. It had to be.
“Watch out!” someone shouted. I looked back and found it was my lab partner Meheer. I was usually glad to see Meheer. He could always make me laugh, even while we were working in class. But today, nothing could cheer me up.
Meheer jumped off his bike. “What’s wrong?”
“Oh, I lost a necklace (项链) that used to belong to my grandmother. I thought it might havefallen off on the way to school this morning.”
“What does it look like? I’ll help you find it.”
We searched around the path but found nothing.
“There’s always tomorrow,” said Meheer, patting (轻拍) me on the shoulder. “I have a feeling it will turn up.”
“I doubt it,” I said.
Alone, I stood on the front walk for a minute. I had promised my mother I’d be more responsible. What would she think of me now? Slowly, I walked to the front door, pressed the handle, and stepped inside.
My mother was in the kitchen, cutting carrots for her famous vegetable soup. “You’re late,” she said. “You didn’t tell me anything you had after school today.”
“I’m sorry. I guess I should have called.”
“Kari, you may be in the eighth grade now, but I still need to know where you are. I’m responsible for what happens to you.”
That was my mother: never failing in her responsibilities. I, on the other hand, couldn’t even manage the smallest thing.
“So,” she said, “what was it that kept you at school?”
“I lost Grandma’s necklace,” I blurted out (脱口而出). “I’m so sorry. I looked every wherefor it. Mum, please don’t be angry with me. It was an accident.”
My mother stopped cutting and her expression was one I’d never seen before. She said nothing. Then she walked out of the room. Oh, this was worse than I thought. She couldn’t even stand looking at me. A moment later, she reappeared in the doorway. “Do you remember what I said when I gave you the necklace?” I nodded. “You said I was old enough now to be trusted with greater responsibilities.”
注意：1．续写词数应为75左右；
2．请按如下格式作答。
As I brushed away a tear, my mother smiled at me.
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During that hot summer, little Sammy and his sister Marie spent their vacation at their grandparents’ farm. The farm was filled with fun and adventure, but one day, an unfortunate accident occurred. While playing, Sammy accidentally shot his grandmother’s beloved pet duck with a slingshot (弹弓). Panicked, he quickly hid the duck behind a pile of old wood in the yard. He was afraid to tell his grandmother the truth, worried about being punished.
However, what he didn’t know was that his sister Marie had seen the entire event. The next day, when Grandma asked Marie to wash the dishes, Marie seized the opportunity to shift the responsibility onto Sammy. She said, “Sammy told me he wanted to help in the kitchen today, Grandma.” Sammy was shocked and confused because he had not said such a thing. Marie approached him and whispered threateningly, “Remember the duck?” It was then that Sammy realized Marie had seen his secret and was now using it to make him do the housework she didn’t want to do.
This situation continued for several days. Whenever there were household chores to be done, Marie would threaten Sammy with “Remember the duck?”. Sammy felt an increasing burden of guilt and responsibility.
注意：续写词数应为 80左右。
Finally, he couldn’t bear the secret and pressure any longer and decided to tell everything to Grandma
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In a quiet suburb, there lived a high school student named Liam. He was the son of two chemistry. Naturally, everyone thought Liam would follow in his parents’ footsteps and chemistry. Naturally, everyone thought Liam would follow in his parents’ footsteps and pursue (致力于) a career in science and become a scientist. However, Liam’s heart was to put into something entirely different—he was passionate about literature and writing.
Each morning, Liam would wake up to hear his parents discuss the latest scientific discoveries and development over breakfast. One particular morning, Liam was upset, as the task of selecting his high school courses weighed heavily on him. He knew his parents would expect him to fill his schedule with science and math classes and engage in work related to science. At breakfast, Liam’s mother noticed his sadness and asked, “Is everything alright, Liam?” Liam hesitated (犹豫) but then replied, “I’m just thinking about my course selection for next semester.” His father cut in, “You should consider more science courses. They will prepare you for a great career in science, just like us.”
Throughout the day, the thought of disappointing his parents troubled Liam. He loved and respected them but felt hesitated between their expectations and his own ambition. That afternoon, Liam met his best friend, Sam, at their favorite cafe. “Liam, you seem worried. What’s on your mind?” Sam asked. Liam admitted, “I’m struggling with course selection. My parents want me to focus on science, but I really want to take more literature and writing classes.” Sam listened carefully and comforted him, “Liam, it’s important to follow your passion. Maybe you should talk to your parents about what you really want. They might be more understanding than you think.”
注意：
1. 续写词数应为150左右；
2. 请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
Encouraged by Sam’s words, Liam decided to have an honest conversation with his parents that night.
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Liam’s parents listened intently, their expressions softening as they began to understand the depth of his passion.
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When John pulled into his mother’s driveway with his young daughter, Lily, the sight of the familiar lychee (荔枝) tree welcomed them. “Look, Lily,” John said, pointing to the towering tree in the front yard. “It’s the family tree.”
Lily smiled as John treated the tree as if it were a real family member, patting its trunk (树干) affectionately. As they were admiring the tree, the screen door opened and out stepped Grandma Mei, bathed in the warm Florida sunlight. Grandma Mei, who came from the province of Guangdong in China, was known for her green thumb, particularly when it came to lychees.
Seeing her granddaughter, Grandma Mei adjusted her baseball cap and asked if Lily was ready for some lychees. But Lily hesitated, for the fruit’s appearance was unlike any other fruit she had tried before. With a laugh, Grandma Mei gave her a gentle hug. “More lychees for me then, John,” Grandma Mei said.
“Let’s get busy!” John said with enthusiasm, rubbing his hands together. “Family tree’s waiting.”
Hearing Dad calling the tree by name, Lily couldn’t help laughing. “Laugh if you want, Lily, but this tree is really family. On cold nights, before family tree was fully grown, Grandma Mei used to take my blanket and throw it over that tree.” Grandma Mei nodded, adding that she had to protect the tree from bad weather so that it would become a big strong tree and grow fruit for the whole family.
John, eager to start the day’s work, began climbing the tree, determined to harvest the best lychees for the family. Lily watched in amazement, noticing the clusters (簇) of lychees, their skin rough yet inviting.
As John skillfully cut through the branches with a cutter, Lily expressed her concern for the well-being of the tree. John explained to her that cutting the ends of branches won’t hurt family tree. Instead such behaviour made it healthier and stronger.
注意：
1.续写词数应为150左右；
2.请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
Lily’s hesitation towards the fruit gradually shifted to curiosity and she wanted to try it.
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Later in the afternoon, they all sat under the tree, surrounded by boxes filled with lychees and sharing stories related to lychees.
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Becky Darig had always had a fascination with the cinema, and by the time she was nine years old, she knew she wanted to be an actress, shine on the big screen and be a star When Becky was seventeen, she unexpectedly got her break into show business, but she never imagined that her golden opportunity would turn her life and her family’s upside down.
It all started when Becky’s friend Anna spotted a call for teens to audition (试镜) for roles in a new TV show, which was also looking for a double for the lead actress. “You’d be perfect!” cried Anna. “And you’ve always wanted to be an actress. This could be your opportunity!” “I don’t know, Anna,” said Becky. “I have no experience!” Anna shook her head and said: “You know what my grandma said? Nothing ventured (冒险), nothing gained. You’ve got to try! I’ll come with you if you’re scared!”
Becky accepted her offer, and the next day the two girls were at the audition along with hundreds of other teens. The other hopefuls were all beautiful, and from their conversation, Becky could tell that they all had experience in acting. She was sure she would be knocked out immediately, but Anna kept telling her that she would be fine.
Finally, it was Becky’s turn, and she stepped into the room in front of the producers and the director. At the sight of Becky, the director’s mouth dropped open, and the producers stared whispering together excitedly. Becky introduced herself and started reading from the lines she had been handed in the hallway, but the director waved a hand.
“Becky? Is that your name?” he said. “We don’t need to hear anymore...” Becky felt her eyes fill with tears. She was so bad they didn’t even want her to finish the reading! Then the man said: “You’re hired(雇佣). You’ll be Jenna Marlow’s double.”
Becky understood the producers and the director’s amazement the next day when she met the new series’ leading lady, Jenna Marlow.
注意:
1.续写词数应为150左右;
2.请按如下格式在相应位置作答。
Looking into Jenna’s face was like looking into a mirror!
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The truth was uncovered when Jenna and Becky arranged a dinner and invited Mrs. Marlow and Mrs. Darling.
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My 16-year-old daughter. Lin, had always been a cheerful girl, full of laughter. Her transition (转变) to senior high school was originally met with great enthusiasm (热情). She would come home every day, sharing with us tales of her new experiences, her friends and the fun news of high school life. But as weeks went by, she became quieter and something seemed to be troubling her deeply.
My husband and I realized something was wrong. but we decided to wait until she was ready to open up. One evening, I prepared her favorite jiaozi for supper, hoping it would cheer her up. However, that night, it was different. She seldom touched it, lost in thought. After the meal. we gathered in the living room. a space where our family had shared many heart-to-hearts. The air was heavy with unspoken words. My husband and I exchanged a quick look before I decided to break the silence. I gently brought up the subject, “Lin, you seemed worried lately. Is everything okay at school? You know you can always open up to me and your dad.”
Lin looked up. her eyes reflecting a mix of frustration (沮丧) and hopelessness. “Mom, I’m really struggling with physics. No matter how hard I try. I couldn’t understand it a little bit. I feel so lost.” she admitted, with her voice trembling slightly. My heart sank as I saw the sadness in her eyes. Physics had always been a challenging subject for her, but this time it seemed to go beyond the usual difficulties. Then I reached out, holding her hand and trying to offer comfort and said, “High school is a big step. and it’s okay to take some time to adjust (调整). The most important thing is that you’ve been honest about how you’re feeling.” My husband cut in, “We can work through this together. step by step. Remember, we are always here for you.” Then we offered her some practical advice.
注意：1. 续写词数应为150左右；
2. 请按如下格式在答题卡的相应位置作答。
Over the next few weeks. Lin followed the ways we discussed.
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Finally came Lin’s final-term physics exam.
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Julie glanced across at her cousin, Mira. She was showing off a bright pink prom (舞会) dress to Aunt Clara, who examined the dress with a smile. “Aunt Clara? Will you look at the dress I’d like to get?” Julie asked. “Unfortunately, I can’t afford to buy two expensive dresses, Julie,” Aunt Clara turned. Julie hung her dream dress back and followed her aunt and cousin to the cashier.
Back home, Julie ran downstairs to the basement (地下室). She didn’t have a room of her own, but rather a corner of the basement. She opened her cookie box and smiled sadly as she looked at a photo of her dad and mom, then removed the stack (堆) of birthday and Christmas cards from her grandma. Her grandma didn’t have much, but she’d send Mira and Julie a card and some cash every year. Once she’d gathered the notes, she counted just over a thousand dollars! “More than enough for my dream dress!” Julie whispered.
Julie ran upstairs. Mira was parading her dress in the sitting room while Aunt Clara looked on proudly. Julie watched them for a moment, and her heart ached. If only her mom were still alive, Julie turned away from the happy scene and walked out the front door. Once she had her dream dress, she could join the prom. A few hours later, Julie returned home with her shopping.
Julie sat up in shock when she woke the following morning. Her new dress was gone! She was about to head upstairs to search for it when she spotted something moving in the yard that caught her attention. As she ran out, she found Jewel was tearing up the dress. Julie shouted in frustration and anger. It didn’t matter if she got the dress back from the dog now because it was already ruined (毁坏). Her dream dress was gone, and she couldn’t afford to replace it.
Tears stung (使……感觉刺痛) Julie’s eyes. Julie grabbed her dress and jumped on a bus. At the third stop, she jumped off and ran down the block.
注意：
1. 续写词数应为150左右；
2. 请按如下格式在相应位置作答。
Julie knocked on a familiar door and waited.
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On the day of the prom, Julie wore a new dress made by her grandma.
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