Overview
If a classmate gets upset over a comment, instead of joining in the sadness, another student realizes it's the classmate's thoughts that hurt, and they choose to respond with kindness instead of anger.
The Choice
Anya must choose to confront Daiki or let it go.
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 8.60785534591195
- Word Count
- 318 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Anya and Daiki are working on a group project at school. Daiki, feeling confident, makes a joke about Anya's part of the project, saying it's not as good as his. Anya feels hurt but remembers a lesson: it's not the joke itself that's upsetting, but her thoughts about it. She knows Daiki didn't mean to be hurtful. Anya now faces a choice: (A) confront Daiki about how the comment made her feel, hoping to clear the air, or (B) let it go, understanding that her reaction is within her control and focusing on improving her part of the project.
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
Confront Daiki about the comment
Let it go and focus on her work
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 Anya's situation relate to understanding personal reactions?
- 3
What might happen if Anya confronts Daiki? What if she doesn't?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Anya 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.
