Read the following story;

Justin was jealous of his cousin Cassie when she was named valedictorian of her class. "Some people are just born smart," he told himself later as he watched TV on the couch. He had not been with Cassie all those times when she studied late into the night. Justin was also jealous when his cousin Victor was elected class president. "Some people are just more popular than others," Justin told himself as he played video games on the couch. He had not been with Victor while he tirelessly campaigned. Justin never noticed that Victor treated everyone he knew with kindness and respect. When Justin's cousin Matthew became the varsity quarterback, again Justin was envious. "Some people are just more athletic than others," he told himself as he played on his computer. Justin had not been with Matthew while he trained morning and night.
Justin had never attended the long weekend practices with Matthew. "One day something lucky will happen to me too," Justin told himself as he snacked on junk food.
Q: What is a theme of the story?

• Hard work pays off

• If you wait around long enough something good will happen for you

• The story is about a guy who is jealous of his cousins

• Money can't buy happiness

The theme of this story is "Hard work pays off."

The theme of the story is:

• Hard work pays off

The theme of the story is "Hard work pays off." This is evident from the different situations described in the story, where Justin's cousins achieve success through their hard work and dedication. Justin, on the other hand, is portrayed as someone who waits around and makes excuses rather than putting in the effort. The story highlights that success is not based on luck or innate abilities but on the willingness to work hard and make sacrifices.