The 370 GRE Words You Must Know: Passage 19

The Tacit Pursuit of Ubiquitous Excellence

In a world where tirades (angry rants) seemed to be the norm, there existed a group of individuals who embraced temperance (moderation and restraint) in their interactions. Their taciturn (reticent or reserved) nature did not diminish their commitment to excellence; instead, it underscored (emphasized) their focus on the power of actions over words.

Within their supine (laying back with the face upward) sanctuary, far removed from the tortuous (winding or twisty) path of superficiality, they synthesized (combined disparate parts into a coherent whole) their skills and knowledge to superbly (excellently) tackle challenges that came their way. Their approach was neither tenuous (weak, flimsy) nor timorous (meek or timid), for they recognized the importance of being sufficiently (enough for a given purpose) prepared.

As they navigated the intricate and sometimes tortuous paths of their endeavors, they remained unadorned (plain; unembellished) in their pursuit. Their focus was not on seeking the admiration of sycophants (fawning, insincere admirers), but rather on upholding their own standards of integrity and quality. They understood that true success lay not in supplanting (overtaking or replacing) others, but in transcending their own limits.

The transient (short-lived) nature of achievements did not deter them. They recognized that true impact transcended the confines of time and space. Their contributions were ubiquitous (ever-present or universal), leaving an indelible mark on the collective consciousness.

Guided by the principle of temperance, they approached each endeavor with clarity and purpose. The allure of immediate gratification was undermined (weakened) by their commitment to long-term goals. Their strength lay not in ostentatious displays, but in their ability to cultivate enduring excellence.

Amidst the bustling noise of the world, they found solace in their pursuit of knowledge and the beauty of simplicity. They recognized that true wisdom could be found in the unadorned truths of life. Their journey was a testament to the power of perseverance and the profound impact that can be achieved when actions underscored intentions.

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