Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to choose the word or phrase that best fits each of the numbered blanks

WHAT IS HAPPINESS?

People have been asking this question for centuries, but only recently have scientists and psychologists joined the debate. Apparently, our genes play a big part in how happy we feel. And while money and material possessions can (8) _______ our spirits for a short time, it seems the real key to happiness is life experiences. Buying new clothes or the latest electronic device may make us feel on top of the world for a short time, but after a while, the feeling starts to fade. We get used to seeing our (9) _______ and our happiness loses its shine.

What's more, we tend to compare ourselves to (10) _______ and if we see someone with a better or newer version of what we've bought, it can leave us down in the dumps. Life experiences, on the other hand, are more satisfying and bring more lasting happiness. Apart from the enjoyment of the actual experience, they give us memories (11) _______ we keep our whole lifetime. Life experiences bring us closer to people, too. (12) _______ the next time you're tempted to spend money on material possessions, try saving the cash for a life experience instead. As you look back on your life, you'll be grateful.