How do we Balance Rationality & Faith?

In our civilization, we are encouraged to strategically maneuver our careers, meticulously plan our finances, and optimize damn well anywhere we see fit! Yet many are embracing the idea of "letting go", of following gut instinct and our creativity to carve a different path. "Not everything can be planned and optimized," say the spiritual and religious gurus alike. But is there a good way to balance both for the best outcome? Or do the two perspectives enhance each other?

We will engage in a dialectical guided discussion. Please see the agenda below:

Agenda
Arrive & Gather (15 min)
Icebreaker Activity (10 min)

• Are there any movies or books that you experienced this year that really made you think deeper about things? If so, please elaborate!

Discussion Activities (45-60 min)

• Reason and Rationality: The Left-Brained Methods that have worked
• Visionaries and Artists: What can they teach us?
• The Extremes: 100% "Accountant" or 100% "Bohemian"?
• Applying the Right Perspective and Approach to the Right Situations

Hard Stop on Discussion by Schedule Event End Time
Hangout & Connect (Optional)

Rules of Discussion

• Listen actively.
• Speak to the whole group, not just the host.
• Learn how to express one idea at a time, concisely. Avoid 10-minute monologues.
• Understand good interruptions.
• We want organic conversational, discussion flow.
• Good interruptions enhance the point being made or seek clarity, not debunk or attack it.
• If you receive a good interruption, allow it!
• Watch your speaking inertia. Speaking is a two-way activity; yes, you should be watching and listening to others even as you speak.
• You’re not here to change minds. You’re here to learn how your own mind might be changed!
• This is NOT a safe space!
• Attack ideas, not the person. If you say something, other participants have the right to question or criticize it. And you have the right to do the same with anyone else. If you don’t believe your points can withstand scrutiny, don’t say it.
• Beware of absolute statements.
• Watch for broad blame or assumptions: “It’s all women’s fault.” “It’s all capitalism’s fault!” “It’s obvious the trickle-down economics doesn’t work.” “Everyone knows illegals are using up all of our social benefits.”

Where to Find Us
We should be setting up at a high table in the cafe but may migrate outside depending no weather. Look for our sign!

About the Venue
Central Market has a large cafe serving various items from pizza to casseroles to sushi. There is an in-house coffeeshop that serves coffee, all kinds of tea, and gelato. And there is also a full bakery with a plethora of pastries. We usually have a 15-20 min grace period to get settled.

About Nuanced Discussions
See our main group page! Dialectical discussion, not debate.

DISCLAIMER
We are NOT affiliated with any business, religious, or spiritual organizations. Our objective is to facilitate quality dialectical discussion and activities with responsible adults. We do NOT support MLM, paid mentorship/life coaching, network marketing, real-estate/entrepreneurial education, or related exploitative schemes. Please respect our age boundaries (YOB 1980+).