Overview
If a child has to move away from a friend, instead of feeling like they have lost that friendship, they can think of it as a chance to cherish the memories and look forward to new friendships in a new place.
The Choice
Should Bjorn spend his remaining time savoring what he has or preparing for what comes next?
Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 9.209375000000001
- Word Count
- 320 words
- Published
- Mar 23, 2026
The Dilemma
Bjorn and Hana are best friends who love playing soccer together. Recently, Bjorn's family decided to move to a new city, and Bjorn is feeling sad about leaving Hana and their soccer team. As they sit on the swings in the park, Hana suggests they think of this move as an opportunity for Bjorn to make new friends and join a new team, rather than losing what they have. Bjorn is torn between feeling like he's losing a part of his life and seeing it as a chance to grow. Hana tells him that they can always keep in touch and visit each other. Bjorn now faces a choice: (A) spend his remaining time deepening his bond with Hana and the team, even knowing the goodbye will hurt more, or (B) start looking forward and getting excited about the new city, even if it means emotionally pulling away from Hana sooner.
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
Spend his remaining time deepening his bond with Hana and the team, even knowing the goodbye will hurt more
Start looking forward and getting excited about the new city, even if it means emotionally pulling away from Hana sooner
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 thinking of moving as returning something change the situation?
- 3
What are the possible consequences of each choice?
- 4
How might Epictetus advise Bjorn 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.
