Theravada Buddhism

Join us over food and drinks to discuss the book, “The Origin of Empire: Rome from the Republic to Hadrian.” Description of book: Beginning with the Roman army’s first foray beyond its borders and concluding with the death of Hadrian in 138 CE, this panoramic history of the early Roman Empire recounts the wars, leaders, and social transformations that lay the foundations of imperial success. Between 264 BCE, when the Roman army crossed into Sicily, and the death of Hadrian nearly three hundred years later, Rome became one of the most successful multicultural empires in history. In this vivid guide to a fascinating period, David Potter explores the transformations that occurred along the way, as Rome went from republic to mercenary state to bureaucratic empire, from that initial step across the Straits of Messina to the peak of territorial expansion. Rome was shaped by endless political and diplomatic jockeying. As other Italian city-states relinquished sovereignty in exchange for an ironclad guarantee of protection, Rome did not simply dominate its potential rivals―it absorbed them by selectively offering citizenship and constructing a tiered membership scheme that allowed Roman citizens to maintain political control without excluding noncitizens from the state’s success. Potter attributes the empire’s ethnic harmony to its relative openness. This imperial policy adapted and persisted over centuries of internal discord. The fall of the republican aristocracy led to the growth of mercenary armies and to the creation of a privatized and militarized state that reached full expression under Julius Caesar. Subsequently, Augustus built a mighty bureaucracy, which went on to manage an empire ruled by a series of inattentive, intemperate, and bullying chief executives. As contemporary parallels become hard to ignore, The Origin of Empire makes clear that the Romans still have much to teach us about power, governance, and leadership. Look for the group with lights and a sign.

One of our favorite events is the Preservation Austin Historic Homes tour. Some years the houses are clustered in one area and it is possible to walk to them as a group, but this year they are located citywide, so we are just posting this for your information. (**No need to sign up**.) The tour will run from 10-5 on both Saturday and Sunday April 18-19. There will be five homes open to tour on Saturday, and 5 different homes will be open on Sunday. Some of these amazing homes are in the Austin neighborhoods we often walk in. **Purchase tickets online using the link below. Advance Early Bird tickets available through March 31 are $35 for Preservation Austin members/$45 non-members. Advance tickets after 3/31 are $40 for members and $50 for non-members**. Tickets are good for both days (no one day tickets). **Tickets purchased the day of the tour will be $55**. The list of homes and the map of the tour will be published on the website a few days before the tour. The web site also includes information on volunteer opportunities. https://www.preservationaustin.org/events/2026-homes-tour

Fun, fitness, friends, FREE! Acroyoga is partnered acrobatics enhanced with techniques from yoga, gymnastics, dance, cheerleading, and even healing arts such as Thai massage. Austin is home to one of the largest, friendliest acroyoga communities in the United States, with a vibrant scene and many opportunities to play and learn each week. All we're missing is you! If you've been wanting to try out acroyoga, we welcome you to our weekly beginner orientation lesson, part of our regular Friday jam (open practice). Through games and calibrations, you'll understand key body mechanics essential to acro, and then learn several basic poses and how to transition between them. You'll be surprised what you'll be able to do! Taught by volunteer senior members of our community, this lesson emphasizes safety, connection, and fun. No partner or experience necessary! Feel free to come by yourself, with a friend, or bring a group! After the lesson, you're welcome to stay and enjoy the rest of our jam and try out your new skills. Since we'll be playing with others, don't forget to wear deodorant, trim your nails, and brush your teeth  The orientation is FREE, though we welcome pay-what-you-can donations to help support our local jams. This event is organized and run by the Austin Acro Advocates, a 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to a safe, sustainable, and growing acro scene in the greater Austin area. The last Friday Jam of the month is fully masked, to enable a safe space for immunocompromised community members. PLEASE ARRIVE BY 7:45PM so you can fill out our waiver and warm up before the fun begins promptly at 8:00! 1st, 3rd, & 5th Fridays of the month will be acro L-basing orientation 2nd Fridays will be acro therapeutics orientation 4th Fridays will be acro standing orientation Can't get enough acro? Join our main Facebook group for more! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/AcroYogaATX/](https://www.facebook.com/groups/AcroYogaATX/?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZWxEx5GxmTDKMub5ZLtEr26DD7wVqea0uq1Qnz7WR2gha6yToGpDviCJUwLf8oD5mqJnNQ5YvE5RrZXgoiLd5EawmJIYmtZS1gqyAAIONglR5LyL5ioOtyBooLn_lxQ5aTNgS_ibVtuemgzJbdWLqcv9QXmmzihaNeLr7y_7avf2w&__tn__=q)

I will meet you at the front of the park near the sign at the front. Bring water and yourself! Workout will be approximately thirty minutes and around fifteen minutes of meditation.

An in-depth workshop on the practice and purpose of yoga meditation. 🪷 You'll learn three techniques of yoga meditation and how to start your own daily practice. 📿 The class will also include an overview of the purpose of yoga meditation and how we can apply it to our lives. We will talk about our identity (who we are and what we're not), the mind (and how to control it), and how to live according to our intrinsic purpose and function. RSVP is required – through Meetup or by email, text, or phone: info@YogaMeditationGroup.org or (512) 774-4964 Cost: No charge. Donations are gratefully accepted. Bring: An open heart. No mat needed. Seating and refreshments will be provided. Location: Yoga Meditation Group, 13740 Research Blvd, Bldg T, Unit 3, Austin, 78750 Yoga Meditation Group info@YogaMeditationGroup.org YogaMeditationGroup.org (512) 774-4964 Facebook.com/yogameditationgroup Instagram.com/yogameditationgroup

Free public meditation

***Free Yoga For Mental Wellbeing***. This session offers tools to bring balance to the body and mind for a holistic experience of inner wellbeing. The practices offered include: * **Nadi Shuddhi**: A yogic practice that cleanses the *nadis* – the pathways through which pranic energy flows – resulting in a balanced system and psychological wellbeing. * **Miracle of Mind Meditation**: A 7-minute guided meditation empowering you to take charge of your mental wellbeing. Daily practice brings health, dynamism, peace and well being. Benefits: * Enhances vitality, focus, memory and productivity * Stabilizes the body, mind and emotions * Reduces stress and anxiety Location:Desi District - 12301 W Parmer Ln, unit 801, Cedar Park, TX, US, 78613 Sunday, April 19, 2026 at 9:00 AM **-** 9:45 AM CDT Open to all ages 7 and above. Those 7-17 to be accompanied by a parent/guardian. RSVP:https://online.innerengineering.com/en/event-details/23281 Contact Details; Austin@ishausa.org 512-655-9589

[Get Details and Register Here - $25.00](https://dailyreikiaustin.com/round-rock-reiki-share/) This event is turning into one of our favorite monthly community moments! Please join us in the peaceful space that is the Mind's Eye Plants Yoga Room for a deeply powerful afternoon of Reiki and connection. This Reiki Share is open to practitioners of all levels — whether you’ve just taken your first class or you’ve been practicing for years. Even if you got your attunement MANY years ago and haven't practiced since! This event is perfect to get you back into the flow! We’ll gather in community, take turns on the table, and each receive Reiki from the group. It’s a beautiful chance to both practice your healing art and soak up some much-needed, incredibly powerful Reiki yourself, all while meeting and connecting with other practitioners. If you've never had Reiki given by multiple practitioners at once, this is a must try experience. Space is limited, so be sure to save your spot! Tea will be served.

This event is quickly turning into one of our favorite monthly community moments! Please join us in the peaceful space that is the Mind's Eye Plants Yoga Room for a deeply powerful afternoon of Reiki and connection. This Reiki Share is open to practitioners of all levels — whether you’ve just taken your first class or you’ve been practicing for years. Even if you got your attunement MANY years ago and haven't practiced since! This event is perfect to get you back into the flow! We’ll gather in community, take turns on the table, and each receive Reiki from the group. It’s a beautiful chance to both practice your healing art and soak up some much-needed, incredibly powerful Reiki yourself, all while meeting and connecting with other practitioners. If you've never had Reiki given by multiple practitioners at once, this is a must try experience. Space is limited, so be sure to save your spot! Oh yes, and tea will be served. Apr 19, 2026, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM Mind's Eye Plants and Round Rock Reiki, 100 E Main St [#202](https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/202/), Round Rock, TX 78664 [Reserve your space here.](https://dailyreikiaustin.com/round-rock-reiki-share/)

In-person meditation Every Saturday 10:30 AM Sahaja Yoga is a method of actualizing the pure state of meditation, through the awakening of our inner spiritual energy. This experience of inner spiritual awakening also called as self-realization leads to a profound state of silence, a state of “Thoughtless Awareness”, where the mind is silent, and you simply witness the present moment. Check our website for more info: https://austinsahajayoga.org/

**\*\*\*RSVP ON MEETUP ALONE DOES NOT RESERVE A SPOT ON THE TRIP\*\*\*** **[About the Park](https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/caprock-canyons)** If you're looking for a stunning outdoor adventure, Caprock Canyons State Park in the Texas Panhandle is an absolute gem! This sprawling 15,000-acre park showcases gorgeous, rugged canyons shaped over time by wind and water, creating some truly breathtaking scenery. One of the coolest features? It's home to the official Texas State Bison Herd – you will spot these majestic animals roaming the landscape! With over 90 miles of trails, there's plenty to explore whether you're into hiking, biking, or horseback riding. The park also features prairie dog towns, camping options ranging from primitive sites to convenient drive-up spots, and spectacular viewpoints like Holmes Creek Canyon. Don't miss the Folsom Historic Site, a beautiful natural bridge, and the intriguing Fern Cave – they all add to your visit! **About the Work** The park rangers would like us to do trailway bridge work along with brushing trails. **About Transportation** Participants are responsible for their own transportation. Carpooling is encouraged; please contact other attendees on this trip to arrange your carpool. **About Lodging** We will be tent camping within the state park, at the South Prong area (no electrical or water). Participants are responsible for bringing their own camping equipment. **About Meals** Participants bring their own breakfasts and lunches. For evening meals, you and your cooking group (TBA) will feed the entire group one evening - this includes bringing and preparing the food, as well as dish patrol (washing pots/pans/etc.) **About Our Day Off** Sunday April 19 is our day to enjoy the park- participants can decide what they want to do during this day. There are usually hikes or other outings organized within the group. ***But wait - there’s more!*** On Saturday April 18, (after Palo Duro SP, and before Caprock Canyons SP) we get to check out a huge area nearby that is not open to the public, and won’t be for at least three years! The [Cross Bar Special Recreation Management Area](https://friendsofcrossbarsrma.org) is big - 11,883 acres. It is the only BLM land in Texas. We have received special permission to have them guide us across private property to get to the preserve. They are meeting us at the gate at 10:30am on Saturday April 18. It is about an hour drive from Palo Duro. The gate’s address is 9610 Brickplant Road, Amarillo, TX. After exploring the Cross Bar, many of us will proceed to Caprock Canyons State Park (2 hour drive) for another week long service project. **TO SIGN UP FOR CAPROCK CANYONS SP SERVICE PROJECT:** 1. **RSVP on Meetup.** The Meetup may show as full, but if you want to come, please sign up. There is usually plenty of turnover. 2. **Wait for approval from Trip Leaders, who might reach out for more details.** Hiking and camping in rugged wilderness areas takes extraordinary preparation, so we strive to make sure this trip is right for you. 3. **Contact information:** Send your name, cell number, and email address to **[stanpeyton@gmail.com](mailto:stanpeyton@gmail.com)** 4. **Complete the Medical Form [https://tinyurl.com/SCMedicalForm2021](https://tinyurl.com/SCMedicalForm2021).** Scan and email the form also to **[stanpeyton@gmail.com](mailto:stanpeyton@gmail.com)** (preferred) or to Stan Peyton’s mailing address below. 5. **Read the Participation Agreement and fill out Page 1** **[https://tinyurl.com/SCSignUpSheet2020](https://tinyurl.com/SCSignUpSheet2020)** 6. **Mail the forms to:** **Stan Peyton** **8408 Hanbridge Lane** **Austin, TX 78736** **VERY IMPORTANT - IF WE HAVE NOT RECEIVED THE ABOVE PAPERWORK WITHIN TEN DAYS OF YOUR SIGNING UP, YOU WILL BE REMOVED FROM THE TRIP.** ***Don’t sign up unless you are serious about attending.*** **YOU WILL NEED TO BRING:** **-Food and drink for all your breakfasts, snacks, and lunches.** **-6 gallons of potable water** (park water is high in nitrates and unpotable) **-Mess kit (plate/bowl, utensils, napkin)** **-Your cooking groups’ dinner ingredients & containers for leftovers** **-Tent and tent supplies (footprint, tent, fly, mallet, stakes)** **-Implements of sleeping (sleeping bag, pillow, earplugs)** **-Work gloves, eye protection, kneeling pad, trail tools, geologist hammer** **-Day pack to carry to work sites** **-Flashlight/headlamp** **-camp chair** **-Clothes for the weather, including long shirt, long pants, & boots for trail work, and rain gear** **-Personal prescriptions** **-Water bottle** **-Personal First Aid kit (include tweezers)** **-Sunscreen, bug spray** **ASCO group cooking equipment (large pots/pans, etc.) will be brought by Trip Leaders.**

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.

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 Neurospicy Columbus at the Stauff's for coffee and then a stroll through the Book Loft nearby! This will be a friendly chat for like minded individuals with Autism and/or ADHD (or somewhere on the Neurodiverse Spectra).

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!

Let's catch up and have a relaxed chat, including chat about the book Disability Visibility. This collection of essays is available at the library. You'll be invited to share the essay that you related to the most, and the essay that did the most to grow your awareness of something new. It's OK if you don't read the whole book!

We are a real world Martial arts group. \ Called DO JUNG ISHU (the art of fighting) \ Based off of Jeet kune do we just continued where Bruce Lee left off. \ We have been around a while. \ We are donation based. Every week we get together and work technical skills and live pressure testing. \ Almost all of the instructors have been in everything from altercations in the real world to the ring and some still compete in the cage. \ If you want to take your skills up, improve your confidence, gain self defense skills, get in better shape, test yourself or just want to kill some time and possibly get hit a bit come on down. \ We will be located at 3923 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214 inside the whetstone rec center in the auditorium, upstairs in classroom B or outside in the grass between the playground and horseshoe area. our instructors are normally in a black and red art of fighting shirt \ if you can not find us call or text me at 6143570295 Saturday 1pm Wednesday 5:30pm From Age 16 and up. attendees under the age of 18 must have a guardian with them. \ \ You must have a free leisure card for the rec center and must be registered for our class specifically .\ Wear workout clothing \ Bring a MOUTHPIECE! \ WE HAVE GLOVES. \ Hope to see you soon :-).\ We are run off of donations. \ let me know if you have any questions :)