Conversation

Hello Minimalists! For our April meetup we will be discussing frugality given the increase in the cost of living that we are all facing. To start our discussion a bit earlier, I wanted to mention my favourite way of being frugal, which is not being car-dependant, as car costs are much more significant than many of us think. The annual cost for households with one vehicle is around $9,500 per year! Here I share with you an [article from several years ago before fuel was as expensive as it is now that talk about how car costs eat up the savings from living further out from town](https://theconversation.com/outer-suburbs-housing-cost-advantage-vanishes-when-you-add-in-transport-it-needs-to-be-part-of-the-affordability-debate-204807) . Same as usual, if you have stuff to declutter, bring it around and see if anyone could give it a new home. Anything left over we can donate it at the op-shop after we are done at the cafe. Looking forward to hearing and sharing frugal tips! P.S. We are moving away from Meetup to a email list group so we will be collecting email addresses for a future without Meetup!

Our late afternoon get-together, (4-5.30pm) for a drink and conversation *en français* at Southgate food court by the Yarra river. It is easy to find. If weather is fine, we will get together in the sheltered seating area (as per photo above) outside the food court *en plein air. If cold and raining we will sit inside the foodcourt near the Grill'd outlet.* Southgate food court is just across the river from Flinders Street Station. We can buy a glass of wine or hot drink inside the food court. A glass of wine costs $11 at Grill'd or Rhumbas. Any change of arrangement, will be posted on the meetup website.

**Food for Thought Videos and Questions** Watch curated YouTube videos on the topic at: * [2 Minutes Will Change the Way You Think About Consent](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=laMtr-rUEmY) * [Tea Consent](youtube.com/watch?v=fGoWLWS4-kU) * [Consent for Kids](youtube.com/watch?v=h3nhM9UlJjc) * [Consent: It's Simple](youtube.com/watch?v=pZwvrxVavnQ) * [FRIES Consent model](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QTSDIilyA2I) **Conversation starter questions** 1. The tea analogy is beloved — but where does it fall short? What does comparing consent to tea get right, and what complexities does it flatten or ignore? 2. "No means no" vs "yes means yes" — what's the real difference? Is the shift from one standard to the other purely semantic, or does it change how people think and behave? 3. Can consent be truly free when power imbalances exist? Think about boss/employee, teacher/student, or even significant age gaps. Is "consent" in those contexts always genuine? 4. Is silence ever consent? What role does body language, context, and prior relationship play — and where does interpretation become assumption? 5. Should consent be enthusiastic to be valid? Some argue a reluctant but unpressured "okay" is still real consent. Others say anything less than enthusiasm isn't enough. Where do you land? 6. How do we talk about consent in long-term relationships? Does familiarity change the rules — or does it just make it easier to skip conversations we should still be having? 7. What role does social conditioning play in our ability to say no? Many people — especially women — are socialised to prioritise others' comfort. Does that compromise the meaning of their "yes"? 8. Consent isn't just sexual — where else does it show up? Think about sharing someone's story, tagging them in photos, hugging a colleague, or making decisions on someone's behalf. Are we applying the same standards everywhere? 9. Can you ever fully "take back" consent you gave in the past? If someone consented to something years ago but no longer would — how should we think about accountability, forgiveness, and growth? 10. Do you want to ask the group any other questions \*\*\* Meaningful Discussions events take place in 11 countries and this will be our 153rd event in Melbourne! :) Please be sure to ARRIVE ON TIME since everyone will be divided into tables of 6 people at the start time. Also, please watch at least one of the Food For Thought videos before you arrive. This event will allow a thoughtful, respectful and engaging discussion with Food For Thought videos, discussion facilitators at each table and discussion questions provided. So if you're looking for open-minded, friendly and intelligent people, you've come to the right place! PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING DETAILS: 1. All members are asked to watch at least one of the Food For Thought videos before arrival to stimulate their thoughts and opinions on this subject. 2. Don't be afraid to sign up first for this event since I will cancel the event if less than 5 people sign up (which never happened in \~13 years). If the event is full, please add yourself to the waiting list for the event. 3. You don't need a PayPal account to pay online - look for the option to pay with a credit card when you RSVP. Meaningful Discussions is operated under the Meaningful Events Association which is a not-for-profit society registered in BC, Canada. RSVP fee is a nominal fee to ensure high attendance and as such non-refundable. 4. Your meal is not included in the price of this event but you are encouraged to arrive hungry for us to keep up a good relationship with the venue that hosts our events. For more information or to attend events online, please visit: https://www.buddytree.org/ You are required to follow COVID guidelines if any at the venue.

Come for a delicious Hawker style Vietnamese meal and settle in for a meaningful conversation on "Freedom". Bring your favourite celebratory chocolate to share. We start our exploration using short selections from the Bahá’í teachings and other inspirational sources. The aim is to uplift, inspire and motivate; the conversation will benefit from all participants’ viewpoints. Everyone is invited to positively contribute to elevated conversations, inquiry, consultation and learning. As we learn from one another we hope to build new connections, bridges of unity and respect for all humanity.

**言語交流会で取り残されたと感じたことはありませんか？問題ありません！** **Have you felt left out in a language exchange event? Don't worry, we've got your back!** 私たちのイベントでは**しっかりと英語と日本語の時間が区切られているの**で自身の言語のレベルによらず練習できます！**広大な公園で優雅な景色を味わいながら、ジュース片手に言語学習を楽しみましょう！** **With clearly scheduled language sessions,** you can practice the language you are learning regardless of your level! What are you waiting for? Let's enjoy chatting in English and Japanese while taking in the strikingly beautiful nature, with a cup of orange juice at hand! **LOCATION / TIME** **Location**: Fairview Park 〒Fairview St, Hawthorn VIC, 3122 https://www.google.com/maps/place/37%C2%B049'46.4%22S+145%C2%B001'42.8%22E/@-37.829546,145.0278993,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m12!1m7!3m6!1s0x6ad64238aa5ada1d:0xa819c9b07e760c!2sFairview+Park!8m2!3d-37.8303407!4d145.0288851!16s%2Fg%2F11fz9d7ym9!3m3!8m2!3d-37.829546!4d145.028543?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDMxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D *There are a couple of **parking lots** nearby.* **Time**: 14:00 - 16:00 **場所／時間** **場所**：Fairview Park 〒Fairview St, Hawthorn VIC, 3122 https://www.google.com/maps/place/37%C2%B049'46.4%22S+145%C2%B001'42.8%22E/@-37.829546,145.0278993,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m12!1m7!3m6!1s0x6ad64238aa5ada1d:0xa819c9b07e760c!2sFairview+Park!8m2!3d-37.8303407!4d145.0288851!16s%2Fg%2F11fz9d7ym9!3m3!8m2!3d-37.829546!4d145.028543?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDMxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D **時間**：14:00 - 16:00 **Participation fees** **$5 (PayID ONLY)** (The participation fees will be collected 5-10 minutes before the end of the event.) *You will get a cup of 🍹**Orange juice** 🍹to get started at the event!* 😋 *The types of juice served can vary from week to week!* **参加費用** **$5 (PayID のみ）** (イベント終了5－10分前に参加費としてPayIDで$5徴収させていただきます。） **イベント開始時に🍹オレンジジュース🍹をお配りします！！** ジュースの種類は週によって変動することがございます。 **Schedule（当日の流れ）** 13:55 - 14:00 pm The organizer will guide participants to a seat and give them a brief overview of the event. *Don't worry! We don't forget your orange juice!!* (主催者が参加者をそれぞれのお席へと案内し、簡単なイベント説明を行う） 20 MIN ENGLISH TIME（英語オンリーの時間） 20 MIN JAPANESE TIME（日本語オンリーの時間） 20 MIN JPN & ENG TIME （英語と日本語ミックスの時間） 15:00pm -SEAT CHANGE (席替え） 20 MIN ENGLISH TIME（英語オンリーの時間） 20 MIN JAPANESE TIME（日本語オンリーの時間） 20 MIN JPN & ENG TIME （英語と日本語ミックスの時間） 15:50 - 16:00 The $5 via PayID will be collected during this time (PayIDで$5徴収させていただきます。） 16:00 - Wrap-up (締めの言葉） A WORD FROM THE ORGANIZER -Bring an umbrella ☂️ -Bring a coat to keep yourself warm in case it gets windy ꩜𖦹 **NOTES** * To ensure that everyone gets a chance to practice, **please follow the schedule.** We really appreciate your cooperation. * **RSVP is required to attend the event, as we have limited seats.** * Provided that there are **fewer than 6 participants**, including the event host, on the event day, **we may cancel the event.** In such a case, participants will be informed through DMs. * As seating for the event is limited, RSVPs may be adjusted to maintain a balanced group (e.g., nationality, gender) and ensure a smooth international exchange. We appreciate your understanding. * In the event of a potential natural disaster, we will notify **you by 22:00 p.m** the day before the event regarding whether it will proceed as scheduled. * Please make sure to **check your RSVP status** **after 22:00 p.m. on the day before the event**, just in case. * **Children under 16** must be accompanied by a guardian. * Participation for the purpose of sales, pick-up activities, religious solicitation, or MLM (network marketing) is strictly prohibited. * We aim to provide a comfortable environment for everyone. Any behavior that makes others feel uncomfortable is not tolerated, and participants may be asked to leave and may be restricted from attending future events. * Please avoid RSVP’ing to another event that takes place at the same time as ours. * Please note that we may take photos during the event to show what it’s like. If you’re not comfortable being in photos, just let us know in advance—we’ll be happy to accommodate. * The organizer is not responsible for any issues or disputes that occur after the event. **注意事項** * 参加者全員が練習できるようにするため、区切られた時間に従ってお話していただくことご協力お願いします。 * **人数制限**を設けていますので、**参加登録が必須**となります。 * イベント当日に**参加者が6名未満の場合**、イベントを**中止する**場合があります。その際は、ダイレクトメッセージにてご連絡いたします。 * 座席数に限りがあるため、円滑な国際交流を行う目的で、国籍や性別などのバランスを考慮し、参加状況を調整させていただく場合があります。あらかじめご了承ください。 * 自然災害の恐れがある場合、イベントが予定通り開催されるかどうかにつきましては、前日の**22:00まで**にご連絡いたします。 * **念のため、イベント前日の22:00以降に、ご自身で参加ステータスの確認をお願いいたします。** **16歳未満のお子様**は保護者の同伴が必要です。 * 営業・ナンパ行為、宗教勧誘、MLM（ネットワークビジネス）などを目的とした参加は固くお断りします。 * 参加者の皆さんが安心して楽しめる環境を大切にしています。他の参加者が不快に感じる行為が見られた場合、途中退場や今後の参加をお断りすることがあります。 * 当イベントと同じ時間帯に開催される他のイベントへの同時参加登録はご遠慮ください。 * ＳＮＳでイベントの様子を紹介するため、当日写真を撮影する場合があります。写真に写ることに抵抗がある方は、事前にお知らせください。配慮いたします。 * イベント終了後に発生したトラブルについて、主催者は責任を負いかねます。

Please join us this Sunday. It is an open social session where we will discuss any topics attendees are keen to discuss. I will also prepare some philosophical prompts for us. **We will meet at the Captain Melville at 2pm for a 2:15pm start sharp.** **We kindly ask attendees to pay $5 to attend to help with MeetUp costs & venue costs. This is not mandatory, but if you are a regular member it would be appreciated. Any extra moneys will go towards buying food and drinks for the table. The venue also expects us to spend money as a group, so grateful if everyone could buy a drink from the venue.** There is no pre-requisite preparation necessary, nor a philosophical background, all that is required is a curious mind. These discussions are both a Socrates Cafe style discussion and lively metaphysical dojo, in the spirit of learning and friendly debate, so please feel free to challenge assumptions and be prepared to have your own assumptions challenged. This event is also posted in the Philosophy Circle group. Hope to see you there!

**🌿 First Meetup: Gentle Picnic at Malvern Gardens** Join us for our very first gathering—a relaxed, low-key picnic where you can connect, share, or simply be in good company. This is a safe, non-judgmental space for anyone living with chronic pain or invisible illness. **Agenda:** * Arrive, settle in, and get comfortable * Introductions (optional—just say hello if you prefer!) * Light conversation, sharing experiences, or quiet companionship * Optional gentle activities like short walks around the gardens **What to Bring:** * Something comfortable to sit on (blanket, mat, or chair) * Any snacks or drinks you’d like to share or enjoy * Layers/clothing for the weather * Yourself, exactly as you are—no need to bring anything else. Participate and much as you feel like on the day. * Board games or books, writing or drawing materials if you fancy. No pressure! **Finding the Group:** * Look for a small circle of blankets near the central lawn area * If you arrive early or have trouble finding us, call or text [organiser’s phone/email] * I'll be wearing a snow leopard print scarf..; ) Come as you are and enjoy a calm, supportive space where you can exhale, be seen, and connect with others who understand. ***

We will get-together at the KereKere cafe - at the community table just inside the cafe entrance. *This is a group for people with intermediate and advanced level French who are able to engage in a conversation en français. It is not suitable for beginners.* The cafe is close to the corner of Wellington Parade and Lansdowne St, East Melbourne in the Fitzroy Gardens. It takes about 5 minutes on Tram 75 from Flinders St Station, or 15 minute walk. Car parking around Fitzroy Gardens on Sundays now is $2 per hour with a 4 hour limit, Some parking is limited to 1 hour even on Sunday. And occasionally, if there is a game at the MCG for example there might not be much parking at all. Price: The event fee is $4.00 - cash necessary! . and please be sure you are a member of MyFrenchLife.org before attending reunion - merci https://www.MyFrenchLife.org. The event fees are transferred to MyFrenchLife contributing to the meetup platform - thank you. À bientôt ! Veronica and Daniel Réunion Hosts MyFrenchLife.org

A gentle space to slow down and connect — Soulful Sundays is about real conversations, shared presence, and meaningful human connection. We meet in person for heart-to-heart conversations in a welcoming, respectful environment. This group is for those who value sincerity, depth, and mutual support. Conversations often explore life, purpose, growth, and the human experience — grounded, open, and real. If you’re looking to build authentic, lasting connections with like-minded people, you’re warmly welcome. Carlton Gardens, **Address:** 1-111 Carlton St, Carlton VIC 3053 **Where we meet: Royal Exhibition Building front steps.**

**💞 Speed Dating on Zoom – Personality Matched for Melbourne Locals** Meet Melbourne singles from home. We sort the matching, you just turn up. It's simple: complete a short personality quiz, jump on Zoom, and meet Melbourne singles in guided one-on-one rounds. Matches shared afterwards. **Choose your age range to register:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=421.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=join-the-local-singles-dating-scene&ar=18-32&face_v=14.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=421.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=join-the-local-singles-dating-scene&ar=30-46&face_v=14.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=421.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=join-the-local-singles-dating-scene&ar=40-58&face_v=14.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=421.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=join-the-local-singles-dating-scene&ar=55+&face_v=14.0) **⚠️ Important: RSVP ≠ registration.** To join, pick your age group below, sign up, and finish the personality quiz. Spots are limited. --- 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Melbourne locals after personality-matched dates - People fed up with swiping who want actual conversation - Anyone curious about speed dating in a relaxed setting - Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations **How It Works** 1. **Sign up** – Tap the link for your age range above. 2. **Complete the quiz** – Short personality quiz so we can match you well. 3. **Join on Zoom** – Click the link, jump on, and the host handles the rest. 4. **Chat** – Quick timed rounds with Melbourne singles paired to you. 5. **Get matches** – Mutual matches shared after the event. **Event Details** - **Format:** Zoom video session – short timed rounds - **Location:** From home – all you need is Wi-Fi and a webcam - **Host:** Experienced host steering the session - **Vibe:** Great energy, real people, authentic conversation 💡 **Tip:** Check your Zoom setup and pick a quiet, well-lit spot ahead of time. **Frequently Asked Questions** **What's the personality quiz for?** It helps us match you with compatible people. **What happens after?** Mutual matches are sent out after the event. --- ✨ Speed dating from home — easy, fun, and personality matched. 🥰 ✨

**💞 Zoom Speed Dating for North Melbourne Locals – Matched by Age & Personality** Ditch the apps. Meet North Melbourne singles face-to-face on Zoom tonight. You'll cycle through short one-on-one video chats with North Melbourne locals matched to you by age and personality. A host keeps the evening flowing smoothly. **Register under your age group:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=421.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=join-the-local-singles-dating-scene&ar=18-32&face_v=14.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=421.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=join-the-local-singles-dating-scene&ar=30-46&face_v=14.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=421.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=join-the-local-singles-dating-scene&ar=40-58&face_v=14.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=421.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=join-the-local-singles-dating-scene&ar=55+&face_v=14.0) **⚠️ Your RSVP doesn't guarantee a place.** Click your age group link below, register, and take the personality quiz to lock in your spot. Limited places. --- 🎯 **Perfect for:** - People fed up with swiping who want actual conversation - North Melbourne locals after personality-matched dates - First-timers new to speed dating - Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations **How It Works** 1. **Register** – Select your age group above and sign up. 2. **Fill in the matching quiz** – Helps us find your ideal matches for the evening. 3. **Hop on Zoom** – Join the call and your host will walk you through it. 4. **Meet your matches** – Cycle through short chats with compatible North Melbourne singles. 5. **Results** – We'll send your mutual matches afterwards. **Event Details** - **Format:** Virtual on Zoom – hosted and well-structured - **Location:** Your space – couch, desk, wherever suits you - **Host:** Experienced host steering the session - **Vibe:** Friendly and relaxed – genuine chats with North Melbourne locals - **Duration:** Around 1–1.5 hours - **Tech:** Zoom, webcam, and a stable connection --- ✨ Speed dating from home — easy, fun, and personality matched. 💗 ✨

We’re bringing back Adult Field Day. Last year was a good mix of competition and just hanging out, so we’re doing it again with some new games mixed in. Think team-based challenges, simple races, and a few things inspired by game shows. You don’t need to be athletic. Most of the fun is just being part of a team and getting to know people you wouldn’t normally talk to. The goal isn’t really winning. It’s meeting people, laughing a bit, and leaving knowing a few more names than when you showed up. If you stick around after, we’ll have a potluck, a bonfire, and a couple comedians in the evening. Bring: * Something to share for the potluck * Clothes you can move around in A small contribution helps keep events sustainable and ensures those who RSVP actually show up. Include your Meetup name + event name in the note. Please send $2 per person to guarantee your spot. Venmo (preferred) or PayPal @WiseUnlimitedLLC Actual links in comments below! Include your Meetup name + event name in the note.

Let's check out the Upcoming Horse Race Event at Worthington Hills Country Club with the Dublin-Rotary Worthington Club! Food will be served along with a cash bar! Cost is only $40.00 per Ticket plus a small fee: [Night at the Races - Dublin-Worthington Rotary - 2026 Tickets, Wednesday, Apr 22 from 6 pm to 9 pm | Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/night-at-the-races-dublin-worthington-rotary-2026-tickets-1980210210044?aff=ebdssbdestsearch) Purchase your tickets ASAP because they will stop selling them on April 7th. I haven't been to a Horse Race Event in awhile and feel that this will be an extremely fun and exciting opportunity! Horse racing is a thrilling sport. Worthington Hills Country Club is a Beautiful Club in Worthington, Ohio with Captivating Scenery and Prestigious Charm. Parking is FREE and widely available in the Large Parking Lot in front of Worthington Hills Country Club. We will meet at 6:00 PM the Main Front Entrance at Worthington Hills Country Club. Thanks and hope to see you come out!

Communication is everything in life You are only as successful as your ability to communicate. \- What if you could confidently talk to anyone? \- What if you had the ability to calmly control every conversation? \- What if you could close that sale\, ask for that date\, make new friends\, repair problematic relationships\, get that raise\, or effortlessly express any idea with confidence? You can! The secret to success relies on your ability or inability to effectively communicate. Attend a free seminar and gain a better ability to communicate. Hosted by the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH 43215 For more information, contact Rhiannon, the Event Host at 614-221-5024

Bienvenue! Columbus French Conversation group invites you to our Saturday morning French conversation club. Expect a casual and welcoming atmosphere in which to learn french! I will bring my laptop so we can look up new vocabulary as needed! The venue is a beautiful French restaurant so you can really get into the zone :)

**Let’s catch up and take an afternoon break.** **Grab a coffee or snack and let’s chit chat! Gayle and I will bring adult coloring books and/or a simple craft if you’d like to unwind and relax.😊**