Soto Zen

April marks the anniversary of Buddha Shakyamuni demonstrating the attainment of enlightenment in 589 B.C.E. This is an extremely important day in the Buddhist calendar because our actions are 100,000 times more powerful than on other days. This event is marked by special purification and fasting retreats in Kadampa Buddhist Centers worldwide based on the practice Drop of Essential Nectar. This practice, which is done in conjunction with Eleven-faced Avalokiteshvara. It is very powerful for purifying negative karma of body, speech, and mind, and for pacifying strong delusions such as desirous attachment and hatred. We will engage in the Fasting and Purification retreat on Friday, April 17th and Saturday April 18th. Participants are welcome to attend only one day of the retreat, but Precepts are required to participate in any session on any of the retreat days. When we take Precepts we must observe eight vows for 24hrs, which include a vow of fasting where we eat only 1 meal (lunch). For more detailed information on taking and keeping the Precepts please visit https://kadampa.org/buddhism/taking-precepts **Event Schedule** Friday, April 17th 6:30am - 7:00am: Precepts (must attend in order to participate in the other sessions) 7:30 - 8:45am: Session 1 10:00am - 11:30am: Session 2 3:00pm - 4:30pm: Session 3 Saturday, April 18th 6:30am - 7:00am: Precepts (must attend in order to participate in the other sessions) 7:30 - 8:45am: Session 1 10:00am - 11:30am: Session 2 3:00pm - 4:30pm: Session 3 **COST** Free (Donations accepted)

Are you looking to make new friends in the DC area? This is it! Reserve your spot for free on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1986186810216?aff=oddtdtcreator)**. Make new friends and meaningful new connections and do community building. Or just to unwind and enjoy extended happy hour. We are absolutely thrilled to announce that **[Hotel Zena](https://www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/zena?gclid=CjwKCAjw9NeXBhAMEiwAbaY4lmNIGNhZ43UtLelRqLdCZsZ_eXi5gUulOWkczZ9-jBZcrF_XJTC2lxoC4rgQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds)**, an art-filled boutique hotel, is hosting Go Gay DC! Get ready for another gathering of members of the LGBTQ+ Community! About 20 LGBTQ+ folk are expected. We are gathering in Figleaf lounge located to the left of the main entrance. We will be in the back by the pool table. Arrive when it is convenient for you! Most attendees will likely arrive by 7:00 p.m. **Metro Directions:** Be eco-friendly. The hotel is located at 1155 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005. The closest Metro station is McPherson Square. **[See a map](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hotel+Zena,+a+Viceroy+Urban+Retreat/@38.9050701,-77.0315871,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x734a7f7109afbeb2?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwio7Yrx1dSBAxVolWoFHQUPA14Q_BJ6BAhnEAA&ved=2ahUKEwio7Yrx1dSBAxVolWoFHQUPA14Q_BJ6BAhxEAc)**. Use Metro Trip Planner: [https://www.wmata.com/schedules/trip-planner/](https://www.wmata.com/schedules/trip-planner/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExdGpIZGhiNnVBbDE5M3JvbAEeuhWmqw_N3p_FOJ2_Yq-5SF6I0pWlao_wznf3lEZ2-ILBc9NuFZDB-mg7Zp0_aem_KDRJar8HqyuVZ-9Q8EUtfQ) You're welcome regardless of where you live. This LGBTQ and Allies community-wide social provides everyone a chance to socialize, network, and share community spirit in a splendid setting. This event is being boosted by **[Go Gay DC](https://www.gogaydc.com/)**[,](https://www.gogaydc.com/) Metro Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [https://www.gogaydc.com](https://www.gogaydc.com/) At this exciting event, you'll even get to meet Go Gay DC's Founder, **[TJ Flavell](http://www.tjflavell.com)!** Fabulous people from all over the world are expected. Name tags will be provided. It's FREE to attend; cash bar. There will be a bartender on duty; cash or credit card is fine. Casual attire is fine; this will be a relaxing and fun time. The event is free to attend but registration is highly recommended to get in. Hotel Zena, an Urban Retreat By Viceroy, is where art, music, and design thrive. Part hotel and part art gallery that features work that celebrates the contributions and courage of women. Find us at the nexus of downtown DC and the 14th Street Corridor, close to DC’s most notable landmarks and museums. The 191 guest rooms and suites are soothing spaces with artful touches. The hotel is even offering a [Go Gay DC discount on a hotel stay](https://be.synxis.com/?Hotel=9029&Chain=1003&arrive=2022-09-23&depart=2022-09-24&adult=1&child=0&promo=GOGAYDC)! Invite all your friends. This event is a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. Go Gay DC is on social media: Join the Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC) Like the Facebook Page [https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Threads [https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC](https://www.threads.com/@gogaydc) Follow on Bluesky [https://gogaydc.bsky.social/](https://gogaydc.bsky.social/) Follow on X [https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC) Watch on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC) LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExN2tRNWxxbmJINDBLRjgyeHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6w6hV7nnd4_ib7hO4sGpsSn_cdXfPd75Bu3M7zmEi9Dl9TPCaWhdsOiMuyEg_aem_2P-pfs9FaQjn7QAvmFHriw) Search keywords: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Straight Allies Non-binary

***“When you sing or chant HU, you’re contacting a living center of spiritual vibration vastly more powerful than the human consciousness.”*** ***Sri Doug Kunin*** **Some of the benefits of HU:** * **Releases stress, worry, and fear.** * **Opens the door to higher awareness and miracles in your life.** * **Deepens your connection to the divine, regardless of your belief** **Experience the Sound of Soul, pause in quiet reflection, and join a gentle spiritual conversation—at your own pace, with no obligation.** **Friday, April 17, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm** **Ways to participate:** **N-PERSON 🌐ON ZOOM** **MARYLAND ECK CENTER 🔗[SOUND OF SOUL EVENT](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89597899210?pwd=reKwx1zJtFNylttx8N4LKs3zYJN7a3.1)** **1738 Elton Rd., Suite 104, Meeting ID: 895 9789 9210** **Silver Spring, MD 20903 Passcode: 978196** **Phone: (301) 715-8592** **Questions?** **Call or text: (301) 439-2120; Email: [MEC@eckankarmaryland.org](mailto:MEC@eckankarmaryland.or)** **Presented by the Maryland & D.C. Satsang Societies Inc., Chartered Affiliates of ECKANKAR.** **Copyright © 2026 ECKANKAR. The terms ECKANKAR, ECK, EK, MAHANTA, SOUL TRAVEL, and VAIRAGI, among others, are trademarks of ECKANKAR, PO Box 2000, Chanhassen, MN 55317-2000 U.S.A.**

**NOTICE: The park is open until 8:15 PM for Sunset Closing** https://www.novaparks.com/parks/meadowlark-botanical-gardens/events/sunset-in-the-gardens-815pm-closing Fees: $5 for ages 6-17 & ages 55+, $9 for ages 18-54, and free for ages 5 & under We will meet at the visitor center. Bring Water, Tripod, comfortable shoes, fully charged batteries, and empty cards There is no specific route in this park. Folks are free to wander around the trails in the park at their own pace. Check out Rob Trek's video from May 16, 2021: https://youtu.be/QwNR_TuxM4Y For dinner, after the field trip around 8:30 PM, we will head to Anita's New Mexico Style Restuarant, 521 Maple Ave E, Vienna, VA 22180 https://maps.app.goo.gl/3T7gw87tjvVuwDT96 Share only your very best, most interesting shots after the field trip, and keep it down to between 5 and 10 photos. Beauty, conservation, education, and discovery flourish throughout the year at this 95-acre complex of large ornamental display gardens and unique native plant collections. Walking trails, lakes, more than twenty varieties of cherry trees, irises, peonies, an extensive shade garden, native wildflowers, gazebos, birds, butterflies, seasonal blooms, and foliage create a sanctuary of beauty and nature. [https://www.nvrpa.org/park/meadowlark_botanical_gardens/](https://www.nvrpa.org/park/meadowlark_botanical_gardens/) By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I am also agreeing to the terms of the following release and waiver of liability, which shall be binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns. In consideration of my (and my child’s) participation in the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I do hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless the Organizer, its members, officers, directors, employees, and the leader(s) of this event from any and all liability by reason of any damage, loss, expenses, or injury arising from my (and my child’s) participation in this event, including that caused solely or in part by the fault of any and all of the above-named parties.

This will be part of an ongoing series in which we read through and discuss the Ra Law of One Materials. If you would like to join and missed prior sessions, please just reach out to us if you'd like to learn what lesson we will be starting with during this session. Over a 4 yr period in the early 80's, 3 people studying channeling and spiritual phenomena, over many decades, encountered a 6 density being, Ra. Ra comes through as a messenger of the Law of One with teachings emphasizing the fundamental unity in all of existence. Through a Q&A format, Ra provided information on the purpose of humanity with great insights and tools to help us discover purpose and to help the human race evolve. We now feel it is time to share this info with our community as these materials are a great way to get clear insight on so many psychological, philosophical and spiritual happenings. We are further into book 3 of the series, but new attendees are welcome. You can find the books for free online if you would like to catch up. But this is not required. FIRST TIMERS: All are welcome as long as you come with an open/positive mind and respectful heart. No prior experience necessary. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early so you can get situated. IMPORTANT DIRECTIONS: The address is 15406 Riding Stable rd. Property is at end of 1/2 mile driveway into the woods. you will drive over a small stream. Please be EXTRA MINDFUL to drive slowly (under 10 MPH) as to not stir any driveway dust. It is a shared driveway so it's important to respect our neighbors. Please do not stop to interact with horses. COST: To help make this affordable to all, we have an offering range of $15-$25. If you would like to contribute in another way, please let us know. With Love and Gratitude

Join us for a pickup on a weekday! Group is relatively small which means you will get to show your skill and run quite a bit ! It is a co-ed game and open to all. Once the players limit is reached, no player will be admitted into the game. We already got a number of players confirmed OFFLINE as guests of Host(s) through Signal. *Those in waitlist will be moved to the confirmed list only when spot becomes available.* *The games RULES are as below, fair play and camaraderie must be followed*. ⚽ It is a friendly game, no slide or back tackling, no rough play, and no greedy play or coaching. ⚽ Join the **Signal group**, Download ***[Signal app](https://signal.org/download/)*** and ***[join the Signal group](https://signal.group/#CjQKIBolYKIpshcX_ooOu_fmV7xlbEeJm5zBZ6_V8uTiuFNOEhAk5KeXU1QFVt39OBRP106d)*** for the game day updates. *Firstcomer, SEE the host to approve you to join the group*. ⚽ No groupism or favors, everyone gets to play without regard for the level be it starter, intermediate or advanced. One must pass ball to appropriate fellow players without favors or preference to a particular player(s). ⚽ **You are expected to change positions**, no one is permanent striker or defense, make sure you circle around and give chance to everyone to experience the game fully. Rotate and offer to play full back or defense too not just forward. ⚽In case of disagreement during the game, the **host acts as a referee** so the game stays smooth and enjoyable to everyone. ⚽ You must bring WHITE as well as DARK jersies (and ball too if you can). ⚽ Send DM to host(s) on Signal if you have questions. (NOT to the group except on the game day not more than one hour before the game to reduce distractions) ⚽ Look out for the changes in location of the field in case we would have to change the field. ⚽ Change your RSVP if needed. More than two no shows after RSVP will be banned for next games. If you need to cancel, do so at least 3 or 4 hours before the game. We do not want to have a low turn out due to last minute cancellations or no shows. ⚽ Additional guest must RSVP themselves to ensure personal accountability in case of no shows. ⚽ We typically post the updates on Signal and MeetUp. ⚽ DM host or reply DM if you want to be confirmed to the group. We may get some players confirmed OFFLINE. We limit the RSVP slots to avoid being a large group. If we will have enough players, we will have second game too. Be mindful of heavy traffic on the day and parking challenges of a typical city! Finding parking and arriving on time is your responsibility, so do not expect others to provide you directions or guide about parking spots. Text 510- 394 29 three nine if have any ANSWERED question from above. Welcome to our group and the beautiful game of soccer/football ⚽! **You Agree to these Liability Waivers:** ⚽ By joining our games you fully assume risks of injuries. ⚽ASSUMPTION OF RISK I, on behalf of myself ASSUME ALL OF THE RISKS THAT MAY OR CAN ARISE OUT OF PARTICIPATING IN THE ACTIVITIES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE ATHLETIC ACTIVITY ITSELF, USE OF THE EQUIPMENT, FIELD OR FACILITIES, THE ACTS OF OTHERS OR THE UNAVAILABLITY OF EMERGENCY CARE. ⚽ INDEMNITY/HOLD HARMLESS I, on behalf of myself and/or our heirs, personal representatives and/or assigns, also agree to indemnify and hold DC Pick Up Soccer group harmless from any and all claims, causes of actions, lawsuits, arbitrations or proceedings as well as from any expenses, judgments, costs, fees, damages, expenses and/or liabilities, including attorneys’ fees incurred in defending or prosecuting any such claims brought against DC Pick Up Soceer ⚽ RELEASE/WAIVER In consideration for being permitted to participate in the Activities, I, on behalf of myself and/or our heirs, personal representatives and assigns HEREBY RELEASE, WAIVE AND DISCHARGE the host or members of DC Pick Up Soccer from any and all liability associated with or related to my participation in the Activities and agree NOT TO SUE the Host or member of the game for any reason resulting from or associated with my participation in the Activities. This waiver and release is intended to include all claims for injuries, accidents, illnesses, or property loss, whether known or unknown or anticipated or unanticipated, which are in any way related to or associated with the Activities. ⚽ NO INSURANCE I, on behalf of myself acknowledge that the Host or members of the game do not carry insurance on behalf of myself. ⚽ LEGAL RIGHTS I, on behalf or myself understand and acknowledge that I/we are surrendering valuable. ⚽ SEVERABILITY I, on behalf or myself understand and expressly agree that the games Rules and Waivers are intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by the law of District of Columbia for which it is used and that if any portion of this rule and waiver is held invalid, it is agreed that the balance of the rule and waiver shall continue in full force and effect and that whatever portion is held invalid shall be interpreted and construed to afford as much protection to DC Pick Up Soocer as permitted by the applicable law.

Join us for a quiet, grounded Sunday evening practice in community. We typically gather with 6–12 practitioners for seated and walking meditation, along with a short Dharma talk or practice instruction offered by one of our teachers or senior students. Our guiding teacher is authorized in the Soto Zen lineage and has practiced Zen for 25 years. **Schedule** * Please arrive by **6:45 pm** to settle in * First bell rings at **7 pm sharp** *(If you arrive late, please wait in the hallway until the next bell.* *Someone will greet you)* * 25 minutes of silent sitting * 5 minutes of walking meditation * 25 minutes of sitting with Dharma talk * 5 minutes of walking meditation * 15 minutes of closing meditation or chanting * We close with tea and informal conversation On **first Sundays**, we offer a relaxed meet-and-greet with tea, discussion, and light snacks. Newcomers are especially encouraged to attend—teachers are available for orientation and basic instruction. **Experience** No prior experience is necessary. You may sit on a cushion or a chair. Whether you are new to meditation or have an established practice, you are welcome here. It is offered free of charge. **Location** Our Zendo is located in the **back** of Rockville United Church: [355 Linthicum St, Rockville, MD](https://maps.app.goo.gl/AABDrCx3sHvBPVBf9) After parking in front, please do **not** enter through the main church doors. Walk slightly downhill, then take the small rightward path up to the rear entrance. Look for posted signs. We meet on the lower level, past the double wooden doors. Guiding map: [https://postimg.cc/nMWsMnQy](https://postimg.cc/nMWsMnQy) **Who we are** [Joyful Mind Zen Community ](https://www.joyfulmindzendo.org/)offers Zen practice, teaching, sitting, and walking meditation on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays in our Rockville Zendo. If you have questions or are attending for the first time, feel free to reach out.

This is an **event at 1801 Robert Fulton Dr., Reston, VA 20191** (All participants must have RSVP'd). We continue exploring the foundational Buddhist sutra: the **Heart Sutra**. This the shortest sutra but the most fundamental. Our meeting schedule will be as follows: * **40 minutes:** Sitting meditation * **5 minutes:** Break * **45 minutes:** Group discussion of the Heart Sutra. During the sitting meditation session, we will provide you with a non-roller chair (or feel free to bring in your own meditation pad/pillow). If you are a first timer, detailed instructions will be provided when you are here at 1801 Robert Fulton Drive).

🍵**Zen & Zest: Japanese Art & Culture Workshops** \*\*Unlock the secrets to perfectly whisked, delicious Matcha!\*\*🍵 👉**Registration** is **Online Only** at: [https://portal.nova-labs.org/event-6616428](https://portal.nova-labs.org/event-6616428) ***(No drop-ins accepted.)*** 🕒**When:** Sunday, **19 Apr 2026**, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM 📍**Where:** Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 **Details:** This immersive class teaches you the precise techniques for brewing, along with proper care for your tools. You'll leave with your very own Matcha set and the knowledge to find peace and flavor at home. While we sip, enjoy quiet mini-discussions on intriguing Japanese cultural mysteries. Master the art of Matcha and bring daily tranquility into your life! This class includes the Kit. Children are welcome but must be registered and accompanied by a parent or guardian if under 12. ⚠️ HOW TO REGISTER An RSVP on Meetup does NOT reserve your spot. **Please register via the link below** to attend. ***(No drop-ins accepted.)*** 👉[https://portal.nova-labs.org/event-6616428](https://portal.nova-labs.org/event-6616428) Hope to see you there!

**Weekly Sunday Meditation Classes with Sanema Naomi Hardrick** * Each class begins with **guided breathing meditation**, to help settle the mind, let go of distractions and cultivate inner peace. The meditation is followed by a brief, traditional Buddhist prayer, called *Liberating Prayer.* * The Teacher will then give a **practical teaching** based on the topic of the class series and explain how we can integrate Buddha’s timeless wisdom into our busy daily lives. * The teaching is then followed by a **guided meditation** to help us mix our mind with the teaching and take it to heart. * Time permitting, at the end of the meditation class we spend a few minutes in **group discussion** and the teacher will take any **questions** that the class might have about the topic. **COST:** Standard: $12 \| Financial Hardship: $6 \| [Register](https://meditation-dc.org/sunday-mornings/) \*\*[Member Pricing: ](https://meditation-dc.org/membership/)\*\*FREE & Available as an online class. **LOCATION** Kadampa Meditation Center DC 1200 Canal St\. SW \| Washington\, DC 20024 **Metro Stop:** Waterfront or Navy Yard

PLEASE CHECK THE ONLINE MEDITATION CALENDAR FOR DETAILS OF THESE MORE THAN 50 SERVICES A WEEK- https://onlinemeditation.yogananda.org/calendar/

THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER **PLEASE REGISTER WITH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER, NOT MEETUP!** https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-04-19-sculpting-photos **Sculpting Photos** The sculptures in the west wing National Gallery of Art offers photographers a unique creative challenge: The art is already shaped by light, form, and intention. In this class we will explore how photography can re-imagine three-dimensional works through thoughtful observation and creative choices. By paying close attention to light, shadow, texture, and perspective, photographers can reveal new interpretations of sculptures, highlighting details, moods, and relationships that may not be immediately visible to the naked eye. Through guided looking and hands-on practice in the galleries, students will learn how camera position, framing, depth of field, and timing transform solid, static objects into dynamic photographic images. Whether isolating a gesture, emphasizing scale, or experimenting with abstraction, this class encourages photographers to move beyond documentation and toward personal expression, using sculpture as a powerful starting point for visual storytelling. Whether you’re new to photography or looking to deepen your practice, this class invites you to see the sculpture and your creative process in fresh ways. In this class you will learn to: 1. Develop observational skills by learning to analyze sculpture in terms of form, space, light, and texture, and translating those observations into intentional photographic choices. 2. Explore creative photographic techniques such as framing, perspective, and selective focus to reinterpret sculptures and create expressive, original images in an indoor museum setting. 3. Build visual storytelling skills by using photography to convey mood, movement, or meaning, helping students articulate a personal response to sculptural works. All cameras are welcome, from your smartphone to DSLR. However, we recommend the camera you use has multiple lenses or a zoom, and ability to adjust exposure. Lenses in the range of 28mm to 200mm would be appropriate. No flash or tripod since we'll be in a museum. Questions can be directed to Marie Joabar at info@capitalphotographycenter.com. Class limit: 8-9 *** **THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER** https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-04-19-sculpting-photos

Main Library, Meeting Room 2B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.

Join us on Monday nights at 7pm for two 25 minute quiet meditations, with one short walking meditation in between. There will be a brief and informal conversation afterward. Stay for as long as you like and feel free to bring or share whatever is on your mind. All Zen Center events are also available via Zoom at bit.ly/IndyZen.

Walk for Children - 2026 Save Soil Walkathon in Columbus 🌍 Over 52% of the world soil is degraded and scientists warn we may have only a few decades of fertile soil left. As Sadhguru shares, soil is a living system—and when it degrades, our food, health, and future are at risk. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyT-6qiubd0 🚶‍♂️🌎This Earth Day, Join the Walk for Children-2026 SaveSoil 5K Walkathon here in Columbus and help raise awareness about soil for the future of our children! Every step you take helps: ✔️ 1. Raise awareness in your communities about protecting and restoring soil. ✔️ 2. Supports sustainable food systems. ✔️ 3. Helps secure our children’s future. 📅 Date: April 26, 2026 📍 Location: Scioto Audubon Metro Park Check-in address 400 W Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43215 ⏰ Time: 8:30 a.m. check-in event starts at 9:30 a.m. 👉 Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/walk-for-children-2026-save-soil-walkathon-in-columbus-registration-1986596534713?aff=oddtdtcreator 👉🏼Free and Open to All. Share this message and bring your neighbours, friends & family along to celebrate our planet! Let’s make it happen!

Join us on Wednesday nights at 7pm for two 25 minute quiet meditations, with one short walking meditation in between. There will be a brief and informal conversation afterward. Stay for as long as you like and feel free to bring or share whatever is on your mind. All Zen Center events are also available via Zoom at bit.ly/IndyZen.

This month's prompt concerns the idea of the “warrior philosopher” (seemed appropriate in these times)--that is someone whose understanding of violence, power, and justice is forged through direct experience of war. We are looking at Major General Smedley D. Butler, a highly decorated U.S. Marine raised in a Quaker (pacifist) tradition who later became a prominent critic of American militarism (there is a wonderful biography of Gen. Butler called "Gangsters of Capitalism") Butler's argument in *War Is a Racket* (1935): that many U.S. interventions were driven less by national defense than by corporate and financial interests, with Butler portraying himself as an enforcer for business and Wall Street. We can consider the moral ambiguity of his insider critique—whether complicity strengthens or undermines credibility and also consider some of the concrete reforms he proposed (e.g., “conscript” capital before soldiers, restrict the military to coastal defense, and have only those who fight decide on war). Butler’s life arc clearly changed from pacifist upbringing to warrior to antiwar crusader—and asks whether true understanding of peace requires firsthand knowledge of war, and what that implies about the cost of suffering. So do we need to suffer to understand suffering? Do we have to experience war to appreciate peace? As one more question: in the movie "A Few Good Men" Jack Nicholson's character says that "you have the luxury of not knowing what I know" so do most of us go through life oblivious to real violence and suffering? See you at Drunken Philosophy!

Join WQC on April 25th from 11am-1pm at Inniswood Metro Park for a Nature Photo Walk. All types of cameras welcome! Let's enjoy spring to the fullest... 🌻🌼🌷🐤

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!