In all one’s lifetime it is oneself that one spends the most time being with or dealing with. But it is (62) oneself that one has the (63) understanding of. When you are going upwards in life you tend to (64) yourself. It seems that everything you seek for is within your (65) ; luck and opportunities will come your (66) and you are overjoyed that they constitute part of your worth. When you are going downhill you tend to underestimate yourself, mistaking difficulties and (67) for your own (68) . It’s likely that you think it wise for yourself to know your place and stay aloof (69) worldly wearing a mask of cowardice, behind which the flow of sap in your life will be (70) . To get a thorough understanding of oneself is to gain a correct view of oneself and be a sober (71) -- aware of both one’s strength and shortage. You may look (72) hopefully to the future but be sure not to expect too much, for ideals can (73) be fully realized. You may be (74) to meet challenges but it should be clear to you (75) to direct your efforts. That’s to say so long (76) you have a perfect knowledge of yourself there won’t be difficulties you can’t (77) , nor obstacles you can’t surmount. To get a thorough understanding of oneself needs (78) . Whether you like yourself to a towering tree or a blade of grass, whether you think you are a high mountain or a small stone, you (79) a state of nature that has its own value of existence. If you earnestly (80) yourself you’ll have a real sense of self-appreciation, which will give you confidence. As soon as you gain full confidence in yourself you’ll be (81) to fight and overcome any adversity. To get a thorough understanding of oneself is to get a full control of one’s life. Then one will find one’s life full of color and flavor.

A. retired
B. retained
C. reached
D. retarded