Overview
Imagine a teenager who didn't get into their first-choice college. Instead of dwelling on disappointment, they can accept the situation and explore other opportunities that might be just as good or even better.
The Choice
Should Bjorn support Hana at her match or not?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 7.531133797742015
- Word Count
- 362 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Bjorn and Hana are in the same class and have been friends since the start of middle school. Recently, Bjorn tried out for the school soccer team, but unfortunately, he didn’t make it. Hana, on the other hand, got selected and is very excited. Bjorn feels disappointed and wishes things were different. He starts avoiding Hana, feeling envious of her success. One day, Hana invites Bjorn to come to her first match to support her. Bjorn is torn. He wants to be a good friend and cheer Hana on, but he also feels upset about not being on the team. Bjorn now faces a choice: (A) put aside his disappointment and support Hana at her match, or (B) avoid the match and deal with his feelings alone.
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
Support Hana at her match
Avoid the match to deal with 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 accepting things as they are apply here?
- 3
What are the consequences of each choice?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Bjorn here?
- 5
Have you ever felt like Bjorn? 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.
