Dysfunctional Families

Fellas, Come along, grab a coffee, and connect with other dads who understand life after separation. Chat if you feel like it, and enjoy a good coffee. I’ll be sitting with my push bike helmet on the table — just come up, say hello, and grab a seat. Cheers, Paul

Join us to see Melbourne Museum’s special exhibition ‘ROME: Empire, Power, People’ followed by lively discussion about the relevance of themes such as power and human dignity, over lunch in Lygon Street. Please scroll right through to end to see discussion points for lunch AND suggested prior reading link. Meet at museum: 11.45 am Exhibition: 12.00pm - 1.15pm Walk to restaurant: 10min Lunch: 1.30pm @ Il Gambero 166 Lygon Street Indicate in comments if you are coming to exhibition and / or lunch. ***New Members:*** New members are more than welcome, we are a good-natured bunch who value friendship and exploring the realm of next wave humanism. Interested? Come and join the conversation! ***Cost:*** $35 adult, $30 senior, $30 concession **PLEASE PURCHASE TICKET DIRECTLY ON MUSEUM WEBSITE FOR ROME: EMPIRE, POWER, PEOPLE FOR 12.00PM 19 APRIL AS SOON AS POSSIBLE TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT** [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/tickets/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/tickets/) $5 CONTRIBUTION (IF YOU CAN) TOWARDS ONGOING OPERATIONAL COSTS ***About the exhibition:*** From the fall of Julius Caesar to the power and ambition of an Empire, the exhibition showcases the luxury of Imperial Rome, the spectacle of the gladiator arena, the bustling marketplaces and the everyday experiences of Romans. Explore Ancient Rome’s political, social and spiritual worlds through over 180 objects dating from the Imperial period 1st Century CE to the 3rd Century CE, with all of the objects on display in Melbourne for the first time ever. The splendour, drama and humanity of Rome is brought to life in detail with scenography and multimedia, giving visitors an immersive experience and vivid portrait of a civilisation that continues to shape our world today. ***Link with modern humanism and points for discussion over lunch:*** **🏛 Power, Citizenship, and Human Responsibility** Rome’s political system—centralised under the emperor yet still tied to republican ideals—invites reflection on **human agency**, **leadership**, and **ethical governance**. * The emperor’s authority shows how power can stabilise or destabilise societies, prompting questions about **justice**, **accountability**, and **the common good**. * The expansion of citizenship, culminating in the *Constitutio Antoniniana* (212 CE), highlights evolving ideas about **belonging**, **rights**, and **inclusion**. * The Senate, magistrates, and local elites demonstrate how communities negotiate **shared responsibility** and **public service**. Humanist connection: Studying these structures encourages us in the 21st Century to consider what fair leadership looks like, how societies might distribute power, and how individuals contribute to civic life. **🎨 Culture, Creativity, and the Value of Expression** Roman cultural life—its literature, architecture, philosophy, and public entertainment—reveals a civilisation deeply invested in **human creativity** and **shared cultural identity**. * Writers like Seneca, Pliny, and Juvenal explored moral questions, emotions, and the human condition. * Monumental architecture expressed collective values: memory, pride, identity, and aspiration. * Religious and philosophical traditions (Stoicism, mystery cults, local deities) show humans searching for meaning and ethical frameworks. Humanist connection: These cultural expressions affirm the humanist belief that creativity, reflection, and intellectual inquiry enrich both individuals and communities. **🏺 Social Life, Dignity, and the Human Condition** Roman society was hierarchical, unequal, and often harsh—especially for enslaved people, women, and the poor. Yet it also reveals universal human experiences: family, work, belonging, resilience, and aspiration. * The *familia* structure shows how people sought stability, identity, and continuity. * Urban life—baths, markets, forums—demonstrates the importance of **community spaces** where people meet, talk, and coexist. * The presence of slavery and inequality invites ethical reflection on **human dignity**, **freedom**, and **justice**. Humanist connection: By examining both the achievements and injustices of Roman society, we can reflect on the importance of empathy, moral reasoning, and an understanding of how societies can uphold—or violate—human dignity. **🌍 Why This Link Matters for Learning** Connecting Rome to humanist values helps us: * see history as a lens for understanding ethical questions; * recognise the continuity of human concerns across time; * reflect on how societies shape and are shaped by human choices; * develop critical thinking about power, culture, and identity; * understand that studying the past is ultimately about understanding people. It turns the Roman Empire from a distant civilisation into a mirror for thinking about what kind of world we want to build today. ***Suggested prior reading:*** In preparation for the exhibition it is recommended to read about the events of Rome during this time period of 1st Century CE to the 3rd Century CE, and the philosopher Seneca. [https://www.britannica.com/place/ancient-Rome/The-transformation-of-Rome-and-Italy-during-the-Middle-Republic](https://www.britannica.com/place/ancient-Rome/The-transformation-of-Rome-and-Italy-during-the-Middle-Republic) [https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/seneca/](https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/seneca/)

**What's going to happen?** There are 4 activities to choose from: **Connection Carousel** (structured conversations), a **Board Game Table**, a **Choose Your Own Adventure** hangout area, and a **Quiet Retreat Space**. Refer to the [detailed plan here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nVbe9zl_dzniTTEavz97LWCWiHfefDZZILYXjVxrAMs/edit?usp=sharing). **Where is it?** It's in the Sandringham Library event space, a short walk from Sandringham railway station. Refer to the [visual directions here to find it](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nVbe9zl_dzniTTEavz97LWCWiHfefDZZILYXjVxrAMs/edit?usp=sharing). **Who's it for?** Whether you have Adult ADD/ADHD, ADHD, Autism, or identify with any other neurodivergent traits, this event is a safe space for open discussions and support. Connect with like-minded individuals, share experiences, and learn from each other's unique perspectives on living with neurodivergence. Our goal is to foster a community where everyone feels accepted, understood, and empowered. Come spice up your neurodivergent journey with us!

A favourite comedian and what I have heard to be a terrific show. Let's check it out on the last night of the Festival. You can buy your tickets via Meetup here, or direct online here: https://www.comedyfestival.com.au/browse-shows/danielle-walker-bittersweet/ show blurb \-\-\-\-\- They say you can’t put lipstick on a pig. Well call the Guinness Book of Records, 'cause I did it and she’s a sexy little sow. This show is not about that, I just wanted to let you know that it can be done, and the results are absolutely stunning. You may have seen me on *Taskmaster*, *Gold Diggers*, *Thank God You’re Here* or a bunch of other shows if you are partial to free to air TV. I’ve also won some bigtime comedy awards if you care about that stuff. I’ve won Raw Comedy, Best Newcomer at Melbourne International Comedy Festival, The Pinder Prize and been nominated for Most Outstanding Show.

We'll meet at the spot where Fed Square meets the Princes Bridge over the Yarra (near the pedestrian crossing closest to the river from Flinders St, on the Fed Square side). We'll walk for about 6km along the Yarra River, through the Botanic Gardens and back along the river to Federation Square for a coffee after the walk. This month, we're reading and talking about 'I'd Rather Not' by Robert Skinner. The blurb: 'From one of Australia’s most wryly funny writers comes an original and utterly hilarious memoir of reaching for the stars while lying in a ditch *I was sleeping in what might reasonably be described as a ditch, though I tried not to think of it in those terms for morale reasons . . .* Robert Skinner arrives in the city, searching for a richer life. Things begin badly and then, surprisingly, get slightly worse. Pretty soon he's sleeping rough and trying to run a literary magazine out of a dog park. His quest for meaning keeps being thwarted, by endless jobs, beagles, house parties, ill-advised love affairs, camel trips and bureaucratic entanglements. Sometimes a book catches the spirit of the times. *I'd Rather Not* is about work, escape and that something more we all need. 'I was told this man came from the Adelaide Plains and so commenced to read his work. By the time I realised I'd been viciously misled and he actually grew up in Magill, it was too late. I was already completely in love with the book. It's an absolute bag of lollies.' —Annabel Crabb 'Robert Skinner writes with humour, intelligence and heart. Pick up this book and you may never put it down.' —Tony Birch 'This book is like a big, properly made gin and tonic drunk outside in a garden on a perfect Saturday afternoon.' —Cate Kennedy '…no other book brought me as much joy as this hilarious and deceptively artful collection, and in these uncertain times that is worth plenty.' —Michael Winkler 'No one writes better when the stakes are lower.' —Sam Vincent 'My heart leaps whenever I see Robert Skinner's by-line; I know I am in for a hilarious literary treat complete with wry pearlers, gallows truths and wicked timing. People will say he is Australia's Sedaris, but he's not. He's Robert Skinner and he's a bloody marvel.' —Anna Krien 'Brevity may be the soul of wit, but the nimble economy of this slim volume will make readers pine for more. A decidedly skewed, hilarious collection of life reflections and colorful storytelling.' —*Kirkus* 'Seriously the funniest book I've read all year. I can't stop thinking about Robert Skinner's forays into the most mundane and frustrating aspects of life - Centrelink, being a tour guide, applying for arts funding - and the shameless truths he not only reveals about himself but about us as a society. Read this book with a bottle of wine, and be alarmed and enlightened!' —Alice Pung 'If only all books were as funny, human and true as *I'd Rather Not*. I raced through it, marvelling and envious all the way.' —Michelle de Kretser 'Skinner has been compared to Oscar Wilde, but his book is as self-effacing as it is quip-witted.' —Beejay Silcox, *The Guardian* 'The best Australian books of 2023' 'Skinner has been called the Australian David Sedaris and it's easy to see why. Both have the same droll, self-deprecating humour and both mine their own lives for maximum mirth-making potential. [...] a book with a several-laughs-a-page quotient.' –Thuy On, *Arts Hub* 'The funniest book I have read for a long time' —Andy Griffiths, author of *The Treehouse* series" Goodreads rating: 3.71 How does a walking bookclub work? Like a normal bookclub, we talk about the book, what else we're reading, have read, or want to read (as well as a few tangents into life outside literature!) but we do it while walking around Melbourne and then over a coffee. We often split into smaller groups as we walk, but we also regroup through the walk. Should I read the book beforehand? The conversation will be more interesting if you do, but you can still come along if you haven't finished it yet! Do I need to bring anything? **Comfy** walking shoes, drinking water, some money for coffee or a bite to eat after if you wish. No need to bring the book unless you want to. No shows No shows (RSVPing yes and not attending) mean the group waits unnecessarily for those who are not coming, thinking you are running a little late. It’s absolutely fine to change your rsvp for any reason up until the walk begins, and you don’t need to leave a comment, send a message or give a reason, but if you don't click that 'change rsvp' button, you may be removed from the group. Membership Fee Did you know that while it is free to attend most events, Meetup charges organisers about $600 a year to organise a group? Members of the Walking Book Club are asked to pay a membership fee of $10 per year (not per event) to help cover this cost. When you join the group, you'll be automatically given a three month trial so you can see what the group is like, without needing to make any payment. If you would like to continue attending events after this, please follow Meetup's instructions to pay the $6.50US/approx $10AUD fee once per year (or contact group organisers if you would prefer to make payment using paypal, payID, cash or bank transfer).

Turn Anxiety and Depression into Happiness! Become your natural self again. Discover the drug-free way to a healthy mind. This educational talk is based on the book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health by New York Times bestseller author L. Ron Hubbard. Dianetics is an exact science of the mind. In this educational talk you will learn about the hidden source of all irrational thoughts and behavior as well as unwanted emotions (anxiety, fear, depression, apathy) and how to handle them forever. Free entry and free parking. Please send messages to host if you have any question.

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.**

At Unity of Columbus, our Youth and Family Ministry nurtures the spiritual growth of children and families through love, joy, and practical spiritual teachings. Each Sunday, children explore timeless spiritual principles through stories, creative activities, music, and group sharing in a safe and welcoming environment. Our program encourages children to discover their own inner light, express kindness, and develop a personal connection with God. Together, we celebrate diversity, cultivate understanding, and inspire each child to live with purpose and compassion. Parents and families are invited to join in this uplifting journey of learning, laughter, and spiritual connection.

**Optional movie afterwards**

Join us as we get together for a Discount Tuesday / Choose Your Movie event to see your choice of two great new films! Option 1 (and the one I'll be seeing) is the top-reviewed comedy-drama, THE CHRISTOPHERS! The film is set in the art world and follows the estranged children of a former artist who hire a forger. It is directed by Steven Soderberg, stars Ian McKellen and Michaela Coel and has been earning rave reviews on the indie circuit. Option 2 is the latest action-thriller starring Bob Odenkirk, NORMAL! The film follows a temporary small-town sheriff who uncovers dark mysteries after a local bank robbery. Here are descriptions, trailers and our plan for this event: THE CHRISTOPHERS: The children of a once famous artist hire a forger to complete some unfinished, long ago abandoned canvases so they'll have a better inheritance when he dies. It is directed by Steven Soderbergh and stars Ian McKellen, Michaela Coel, Jessica Gunning and James Corden. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film is earning an excellent 97% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes where critics call it a “dynamic, emotional and surprising journey” and a “compelling chamber piece that works like intellectual comfort food.” Others call the film, an “incredibly funny, comedy drama with plot reversals that make it feel like it’s on the verge of a thriller!” TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H79-EqzmdwY&t=20s NORMAL: This action-crime-thriller follows a man who comes to the sleepy town of Normal, Minnesota to serve as the temporary sheriff. But a bank robbery leads him to a criminal underground reaches throughout the entire town. The film is directed by Ben Wheatley and stars Bob Odenkirk, Henry Winkler and Lena Headey. The film comes from the same team that brought us Nobody and the John Wick series, so expect an over-the-top, action-filled thrill ride! TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rmm-lM33Qw0&t=19s PLAN: Details for this event have been confirmed! For THE CHRISTOPHERS, please purchase your ticket for the 7:00pm showing and meet in the upstairs lobby between 6:40 and 6:50pm! For NORMAL, please purchase your ticket for the 7:30pm showing and meet in the upstairs lobby between 7:10 and 7:20pm! For both films, tickets just $5 ($6.50 after online fees when purchased on the GFC website). Advance purchase is advised. Once you have yours, please list your movie of choice and seat number in the Comments section of this event. PARKING: Close, convenient parking is available in the nearby garage (located between 9th and 11th, just off High St). Bring your ticket with you and have it validated at the theater and for $2, you’re covered for the night! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

⚠️ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up and buy a ticket here to attend:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) **Join the Columbus City Brunch Club and make new friends!** Each meetup brings together 4–6 people for casual conversations over brunch. We use the Groupvibe platform to facilitate the meetup and ensure everyone’s a good fit. 👉 **To attend, you’ll need to complete registration via this link:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) We’ll share the exact location of the upcoming meetup the night before only if you have bought a ticket or membership plan. **Why this works:** \* Smaller groups make real conversations easier. \* Discover new restaurants in your city, together. \* Curated lunch venues with good food and vibe. \* If you hit it off with your group, there’s plenty of time to hang out afterwards. **Note:** RSVPs on Meetup don’t reflect total attendance. Many attendees register directly via our website. The event on [Meetup.com](http://meetup.com/) is only a placeholder. This meetup is organized by Groupvibe, a small team passionate about helping people form meaningful friendships offline.