Directions: Read the given passage carefully to answer the following questions. Each question will have five alternatives as its answer. Choose the correct option as your answer.

The generation gap has always been a topic of discussion, often perceived as a chasm that separates the young from the elderly. However, my personal experiences have led me to believe that this gap can be bridged, especially when forged through genuine connections and mutual respect. Growing up, I found myself forming close friendships with individuals much older than myself. These relationships have taught me valuable life lessons and have broadened my understanding of the world.

I recall an elderly man named Mr. Sharma, who lived in a quiet village surrounded by lush green forests and sprawling fields. His love for nature was unparalleled, and it was through his eyes that I began to see the diversity of flora and fauna around me. He often spoke about how the forests had changed over the years, with certain species thriving while others faded away, a testament to the ever-changing balance of nature.

It wasn't merely his knowledge of plants and animals that fascinated me, but the way he viewed the world. Mr. Sharma had a perspective that was, at times, remotely different from mine, yet his words always resonated with me. He would speak of the simple joys in life: watching birds soar through the sky, the quiet rustle of leaves in the wind, and the way the seasons painted the landscape in shades of green, gold, and brown.

Our friendship wasn't forged through shared interests or similarities in age, but through a genuine desire to learn from one another. While I brought the energy and curiosity of youth to our discussions, Mr. Sharma shared the wisdom of years lived and experiences that shaped him. He often told me that the essence of a person lies not in their age but in their ability to understand, adapt, and grow. And in that simple truth, I found a deep connection, one that transcended the generational divide.