新视野大学英语1读写教程课文原文

新视野大学英语1读写教程课文原文

Reading Text 7

On Having a Choice

1. It was a cold winter's evening. I was having dinner with a group of friends in a cozy restaurant. Everyone seemed relaxed and content, enjoying good food and good company. Suddenly, our waiter brought over a plate of meat, which looked like a perfectly cooked steak. Immediately, one of my friends pushed her chair back and declared, "I'm a vegetarian, so I can't eat this." It was at that moment that I realized the power of having a choice.

2. As humans, we are fortunate enough to have the ability to make choices. Whether it's what we eat, what we wear, or what we do for a living, the power of choice allows us to shape our own lives. Having the freedom to decide for ourselves gives us a sense of control and empowerment. It enables us to live authentic lives true to our values and beliefs.

3. The ability to choose is especially important when it comes to our diets. Some people choose to be vegetarians or vegans for ethical reasons, while others are motivated by health concerns. In either case, the power to make this decision gives individuals the ability to live in alignment with their values. As my vegetarian friend exemplified, having the choice not to eat meat allowed her to stay true to her beliefs, even in a social setting.

4. However, having a choice is not always easy. It requires making decisions and sometimes facing the consequences of those decisions. It may involve going against societal norms or facing criticism from others. Nonetheless, having the power of choice is a privilege that should not be taken for granted. It allows us to have autonomy over our own lives and determine our own paths.

5. In a world where many people do not have the luxury of choices, it is important to recognize and appreciate this privilege. We should strive to make choices that align with our values and bring us joy and fulfillment. Whether it's choosing a career that we are passionate about or deciding to live a more sustainable lifestyle, our choices have the power to shape our lives and create a better world.

6. To some extent, the power of choice is what defines us as human beings. It sets us apart from other species and gives us the ability to shape the world in which we live. So, the next time we are faced with a decision, let's remember the privilege we have in being able to choose. Let's embrace this power and use it wisely, making choices that reflect the values and beliefs that define us.