Reading comprehension – mindfulness passage: what created the strong connection between Shirley and Tiffany in the “healing community” described?

Introduction / Context:
Within the mindfulness passage, Shirley and Tiffany are used as a concrete example of how the “healing communities” model works. Initially, there is distance and uncertainty between them, but over time they develop a deep connection. The question asks you to identify exactly what led to that strong connection: was it merely different stories, or some deeper common ground that they discovered?

Given Data / Assumptions:

The passage explains that:
- Shirley returned to class and kept some distance from Tiffany at first.
- Over weeks, they practiced seeing and listening to each other.
- They shared stories that were very different, which initially made them unsure how to bridge the gap.
- Acknowledging their differences eventually helped them find deep connections in common experiences, such as being raised by grandmothers and shared childhood wounds.

Concept / Approach:
The author is illustrating how acknowledging both differences and commonalities can build authentic relationships. The question centres on the phrase “deep connection in commonalities”, which is crucial. While sharing different stories begins the process, it is the discovery of shared elements and similar wounds that truly creates a strong bond.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Reread the portion of the passage focusing on Shirley and Tiffany. Step 2: Notice that their stories are initially very different, which creates confusion about bridging the gap. Step 3: Pay attention to the turning point where the text says that acknowledging differences led them to discover deep connection in commonalities, including being raised by grandmothers and having similar traumatic experiences. Step 4: Select the option that highlights this discovery of shared experiences as the reason for their strong connection.

Verification / Alternative check:
Ask yourself: What is the “key moment” in their relationship development according to the passage? The answer is when they recognise that, beneath their different stories, they share similar backgrounds and emotional wounds. Only option b accurately summarises that key moment.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option a) “Simply sharing different stories without reflection” describes only the beginning. The text emphasises that at first the very difference of their stories made them unsure how to connect. The connection came later, through commonalities.
Option c) “Discussion on fairy tale stories” is never mentioned and is therefore irrelevant.
Option d) “Sharing their horror experience of past” is misleading: while they do acknowledge wounds and trauma, the passage mentions broader commonalities such as being raised by grandmothers. The focus is on shared life patterns, not just horror stories.

Common Pitfalls:
Students might latch onto the phrase “sharing stories so different” and choose an option that exaggerates difference instead of noticing that the text then moves on to commonalities. Reading the whole sequence of events, not just the first half of the sentence, is essential for correct comprehension.

Final Answer:
Discovering commonalities in their stories and experiences