THE CHOICE (expos)

1. What is the "choice" referred to in the title?
The way the medicine is administered. The parents forcing Rebecca to take it or Rebecca taking it herself.
2. Is it a real choice?  Why/why not?  What is the alternative?
yes, it's a real choice. Rebecca not drinking her medicine is not an alternative.
3. Why does the author use the word poison in the first line?
To make the message that the medicine kills good cells as well as the bad ones.
4. The author's daughter wants to play with a toy that is intended for older kids.  Why?  Do you agree with her?
She wants to play with toys for older kids because she knows that she might not get to be 8. I don't necessarily agree but I sympathize with her. I can not imagine the fear she must have of not getting to be 8.
5. If you thought you might not live to the age of 30 what would you want to do right now?
I would like to have a baby and a dog. I will probably want to visit new places.
6. Under what circumstances does it make sense to endure discomfort--or even force it on a loved one-- in service to a greater/more important cause?
The discomfort becomes bearable when you know that its for their own good. That by causing her pain, they are helping her get better.
7. Is suffering a necessary condition of life and love?
no.
8. Most readers don't share the author's circumstances, but we feel an emotional response to his words.  Why?
Because we can sympathize. That's what distinguish us from psychopaths.