Overview
A child receives a modest birthday gift but chooses to be grateful and enjoy it, rather than being upset about not getting the latest toy that their friends have.
The Choice
Should Zoe appreciate Sameer's gift or focus on her disappointment?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 7.1
- Word Count
- 291 words
- Published
- Jun 7, 2025
The Dilemma
Zoe and Sameer met on the first day of middle school and quickly became each other's most trusted confidants. Zoe's birthday is coming up, and she has been eagerly anticipating it, hoping for the latest smartphone that many of her friends have. On her birthday, she receives a simple, yet thoughtful, handmade gift from Sameer. It's a personalized photo album filled with memories of their friendship. Zoe appreciates the effort Sameer put into the gift, but she can't help but feel a little disappointed that she didn't get the smartphone she wanted. As she flips through the album, she starts to reminisce about all the fun times they've had together. Sameer notices her mixed emotions and asks if she's okay. Zoe
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
Appreciate Sameer's thoughtful gift.
Focus on not getting the smartphone.
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 important is it to appreciate handmade gifts?
- 3
Why might Zoe feel disappointed despite the thoughtful gift?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Zoe in this situation?
- 5
Can you recall a time in your own life when you faced a somewhat similar choice or feeling? What did you do?
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.
