Olivia's job looked glamorous to Kevin, her neighbor. He knew that she made a lot of money, and she always had a busy, important expression
on her face as she hurried to catch the train to the office-or a plane to
another city for a conference. She also had a wardrobe full of fancy
clothes that she didn't need for any reason other than work.
One day, Kevin walked by Olivia's house and found her in grungy
sweatpants. "I've decided to quit my job, Kevin," she told him. "I'm
starting a house-painting business. I won't make as much money, but
I'll be so much freer." She was beaming.
Which statement best expresses a theme of this story?
A. Making a lot of money is not always the best way to be happy.
B. It's never a good idea to make assumptions about your neighbors.
C. Painting is a soothing activity, and more people should pursue it.
D. Envy is the real cause of most people's unhappiness.