1. (2020·泰兴模拟) 阅读短文从每题所给选项中选出可以填入空白处的最佳选项。

    Once, when I was a young boy, I boasted (吹嘘) that I determined (决定) to win first place at the coming piano competition, yet I knew this goal was 1 impossible. Every year, the best players from all over the state took part in this competition. It was a huge deal, especially for a beginner like me.

    But my mom was my number one2. Every day after school, she would sit down right next to me3Miss Green was giving me piano lessons or I was4 my piano piece. When I couldn't and wouldn't play any longer, she would always say, "If you determine to win, then act like it. Don't 5." After every practice, my whole body was in pain for numb (麻木的) fingers and stiff (僵硬的) back. However, I didn't want to disappoint my mom, so I kept on practicing6 I finally fell asleep on the piano keys.

    Finally, the big day 7. Right before my 8 to perform, my mom said, "I know you want to win, so listen to me: Be there for the 9 not for the success, okay?" I managed to nod.

    When I walked onto the stage, I was afraid that the judges would hear the 10 of my heart instead of the music. Carefully, I took a 11 before the piano and began to play. Slowly, I began to 12 the world around me. I just let myself fall deeper and deeper into the music.

    13, I really won first place. The experience made me realize that determination is not just saying that you will win. When you have solved difficulties and kept going, you can truly say you're determined.14 my mom always said, "It's 15 to beat the person who is the best, but it is harder to beat the person who never gives up."