Overview
If a friend is sad about losing a game, instead of feeling sad too, you realize that their sadness comes from how they view the loss. You can support them without feeling down yourself.
The Choice
Anders must choose to comfort Eun-Kyung or help clean up.
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 8.657890515057698
- Word Count
- 323 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Anders and Eun-Kyung are at home, preparing for a family dinner. Eun-Kyung accidentally drops a dish, and it shatters. She looks upset, fearing their parents' reaction. Anders notices her distress and remembers that feelings often come from how we view situations. He wonders if he should comfort her by saying it’s just an accident, or if he should help her clean up quickly before their parents notice. Both options seem good, but Anders knows Eun-Kyung's feelings are shaped by her thoughts about the situation. Anders now faces a choice: (A) comfort Eun-Kyung and talk about how it’s okay to make mistakes, or (B) quickly help her clean up to avoid any potential upset from their parents.
Values in Tension
This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:
Consider how these values might conflict or complement each other in this situation.
Your Options
Comfort Eun-Kyung about the mistake
Help clean up quickly
Questions for Reflection
Take a moment to consider these questions. There are no "right" answers – the goal is to explore different perspectives and develop your own reasoning.
- 1
What would you do, and why?
- 2
How does this scenario show emotions come from thoughts?
- 3
What might happen if Anders chooses A or B?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Anders here?
- 5
Turn & tell: What would our class consider the proper action here, and why?
Did you like this dilemma?
Philosophical Perspective
Insights from Epictetus
Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.
