Overview
If someone teases you at school, instead of getting upset, you remind yourself that their words only have power if you let them. You choose to stay calm and not let it affect your day.
The Choice
Clara must choose to ignore Alex or talk to him.
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 8.649213608477414
- Word Count
- 326 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Clara and Chen are working on a school project at Clara's house. As they discuss ideas, Clara's younger brother, Alex, starts teasing Clara about her drawing skills, saying her sketches look like a toddler's work. Clara feels her face getting hot with embarrassment and anger, especially since Chen is there. She wants to snap back at Alex, but she remembers her teacher's advice about choosing how to react. Clara could ignore Alex's comments and focus on the project with Chen, or she could confront Alex about how his words make her feel. Clara now faces a choice: (A) Ignore Alex's teasing and continue working with Chen, or (B) Talk to Alex about how his words affect her.
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
Ignore Alex's teasing and keep working.
Talk to Alex about his teasing.
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 'Choosing Your Reactions' apply here?
- 3
What might happen if Clara ignores Alex or talks to him?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Clara 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.
