Quick Stats
- Grade Band
- Grades 6-8
- Reading Level
- Level 9.5
- Word Count
- 297 words
- Published
- Jan 19, 2025
The Dilemma
Zoya and Ethan bonded over a school project two years ago and haven't stopped talking since. One day, Zoya finds out that Ethan had a small birthday party over the weekend and didn't invite her. Feeling hurt and left out, Zoya confronts Ethan about it. Ethan explains that his parents allowed him to invite only a few friends due to space limitations, and he thought Zoya was away visiting her grandparents. Zoya remembers mentioning her grandparents' visit, but it was postponed, and she forgot to tell Ethan. Now, Zoya is torn between feeling upset for being excluded and understanding Ethan's situation. She realizes that Ethan might not have intentionally left her out. Zoya Something has to give.
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
Talk to Ethan about her feelings.
Keep her feelings to herself.
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
Why might Ethan have assumed Zoya was away?
- 3
How can Zoya and Ethan maintain their friendship?
- 4
How might Marcus Aurelius advise Zoya 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 Marcus Aurelius
Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.
