阅读理解。
A popular saying goes, "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me."
However, that's not really true. Words have the power to build us up or tear us down. It doesn't matter
if the words come from someone's else or ourselves - the positive and negative effects are just as lasting.
We all talk to ourselves sometimes. We're usually too embarrassed to admit it, though. In fact, we
really shouldn't be because more and more experts believe talking to ourselves out loud is a healthy
habit.
This "self-talk" helps us motivate ourselves, remember things, solve problems, and calm ourselves
down. Be aware, though, that as much as 77% of self-talk tends to be negative. So in order to stay
positive, we should only speak words of encouragement to ourselves. We should also be quick to give
ourselves a pat on the back. The next time you finish a project, do well in a test, or finally clean your
room, join me in saying "Good job!"
Often, words come out of our mouths without us thinking about the effect they will have. But we
should be aware that our words cause certain responses in others. For example, when returning an item
to a store, we might use warm, friendly language during the exchange. And the clerk will probably
respond in a similar manner. Or harsh(刻薄的)and critical language will most likely cause the clerk to
be defensive.
Words possess power because of their lasting effect. Many of us regret something we once said.
And we remember unkind words said to us! Before speaking, we should always ask ourselves: Is it
loving? Is it needed? If what we want to say doesn't pass this test, then it's better left unsaid.
Words possess power: both positive and negative. Those around us receive encouragement when
we speak positively. We can offer hope, build self-esteem (自尊) and motivate others to do their best.
Negative words destroy all those things. Will we use our words to hurt or to heal? The choice is ours.
1. The main idea of the first paragraph is that ________.
A. not sticks and stones but words will hurt us
B. inspiring words give us confidence
C. negative words may let us down
D. words have a lasting effect on us
2. There is no sense for us to feel embarrassed when we talk to ourselves because _______
A. almost everybody has the habit of talking to themselves
B. we can benefit from talking to ourselves
C. talking to ourselves always gives us courage
D. it does no harm to have "self-talk" when we are alone
3. The underlined part in the third paragraph means that we should also timely _______
A. praise ourselves
B. remind ourselves
C. make ourselves relaxed
D. give ourselves amusement
4. The author would probably hold the view that ___________
A. encouraging words are sure to lead to kind offers
B. negative words may stimulate(刺激) us to make more progress
C. people tend to remember friendly words
D. it is better to think twice before talking to others
