Overview
If a friend is sad about losing a game, instead of feeling sad too, you can remind yourself that it's their feelings about the game that matter, and you can support them by cheering them up instead.
The Choice
Anya must choose to cheer Daiki up or give him space.
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 7.460062111801243
- Word Count
- 322 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Anya and her friend Daiki are playing a board game at Anya's house. Daiki loses the game, and he looks visibly upset. Anya notices this and feels a bit responsible for his sadness, even though she played fairly and won. She remembers what her teacher said about how it's not the event itself but how we think about it that affects us. Anya wonders if she should try to cheer Daiki up or let him process his feelings on his own. She knows Daiki well and understands he might need some space, but she also wants to be supportive. Anya now faces a choice: (A) try to cheer Daiki up by suggesting they play another game, or (B) give him space to deal with his feelings on his own.
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
Cheer Daiki up with another game
Give Daiki space to process feelings
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 the principle apply to Anya's situation?
- 3
What are the possible outcomes of each choice?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Anya here?
- 5
Have you ever helped a friend when they were upset?
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.
