BACKGROUND
When some people get old and retired, they start to wonder about the meaning of their life. In fact, many older people may start to feel depressed; that their lives are no longer useful, which is very sad.
The most important thing, in my opinion, is to find and maintain an interest in something. In other words, find something that you enjoy doing and that gives some continued meaning to your life. I think a good example of this is doing charity work - helping other people who are less fortunate than you.
But your interest could also be golf, learning a language, writing a blog, etc. It doesn't matter what it is. The most important thing is that you are interested in it and it gives your life a sense of meaning.
I have often noticed how politicians often seem to live very long, healthy and active lives. I'm sure the reason for this is that they never lose their passion for politics.
I think that is the key: having a passion in life.
retired = not working any longer, usually because of age
depressed = deeply unhappy
passion = a very strong love for sth
DISCUSS
1. How do you think you will spend your time when you are old and retired?
READING COMPREHENSION
1. Why did the man choose to study calligraphy?
2. Why did the man want to do an MA?
3. What is the man especially proud of?
4. What is the man's secret to long life and good health?
READ THE ARTICLE
LANGUAGE
retire/retirement = stop working, usually because of age
pursue = follow; do
philosophy = study of nature, meaning, truth, good, evil, etc
thirst for knowledge = strong desire to learn
nation = country
awarded = given (sth because of a special achievement)
graduation ceremony = special event when you finish school or university
in recognition of = showing that you appreciate sbs achievements
diligence/diligent = studying or working hard and carefully
calligraphy = the art of beautiful writing with special pens or brushes
the basis for/of = subject; main reason; main idea
script = style of writing
stroke = line (in writing a letter or Chinese character)
decades = tens of years
obsolete = no longer used
thesis = a long piece of writing you do for an MA or Phd
reluctant = not wanting to do sth
commute = travel to work or school (often a long distance)
unassisted = without help
quarrels = arguments
sense of humor = liking to laugh and share jokes
acquire = get or obtain (sth by buying or being given it)
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