I had been doing all the household chores alone for weeks! I felt tired and annoyed because my sister didn't lift a finger to help me the whole time. When I complained about this to my mum, she just told me to do as 1 was told. I was unhappy with her tesponse. So, I continued my argument and told her how unfair it was. "I have to change the sheets for both our beds. Then I have to sweep the room, mop the floor and wash the bathroom! Why can't she do her own bed and clean the room since we share the room? Why does she get to lie in bed all day while 1 have to do the laundry, help in the kitchen and even go grocery shopping?" My mum just looked away and I noticed there were tears in her eyes. "What's wrong, Mum?" I asked. "Can't I just speak my mind and tell you how unfair it is to see Aliya being so spoilt while I have to do all our chores?" My mum sat down and called me to her side. She said. "Your sister is quite ill and she needs to rest. Her lungs are weak and breathing is difficult. That's why I've asked you to take on all her duties. She can't do what she used to do. Please help us." What a shock 1 had! I had no idea that my sister was so ill. It was so selfish of me to only think of myself while my parents were going through so much heartache.Sadly, I can't manage all the work on my own and care for her. Her treatment may take a while. If we encourage her and make sure she gets proper rest, she should get better in a few weeks. We didn't want to tell you because we didn't want you to worry. Plus, you have to take your examinations soon. I'm sorry, dear. I wish there was an easier way!" said my mum. I instantly regretted my words when I heard the truth. "I'm so sorry, Mum. I understand now, I'll gladly help out in any way. I'll clean, sweep and mop the house on weekends. I'll also take care of the cat, help with the other chores and cook simple meals when I can. I want Aliya to get well," I said. That day, I promised my mum that I'd do whatever i could to help our family.
A Read the text in Reading 2 and answer the following questions. 1 Why was the writer annoyed? 2 Why couldn't the writer's sister do any of the household chores? 3 Why didn't the writer's mother tell her about her sister's illness? 4 What was the writer's reaction when she heard about her sister's illness? 5 What do we learn from this text?
