Social Change

**Join us for Soul Coffee, an informal gathering where we can connect a bit deeper, check in on each other, and share some real soul conversation together - as always, across beliefs and traditions.** Soul Coffee is a gathering by BreadBreakers, a community for people of all stripes to build meaningful relationships and have curious conversations. **Our mission in BreadBreakers is to be a place of compassion and belonging in a time of division and isolation; to rebuild the town square, one table at a time.** Usually we do this by breaking bread and having facilitated conversations over dinner, but sometimes it's good to just meet over coffee and spend some unstructured time talking about the deep stuff. At each Soul Coffee, we'll keep it simple and talk about three questions: - How's your soul doing? - How have you experienced wonder lately? - What do you need right now? No matter your religion, or if you even are religious; no matter where you are spiritually; no matter if you even think souls exist - come to be seen and known, to just be humans together in a crazy world, to talk about those things of the spirit that are so central to the human experience but rarely get discussed. **Join us, invite a friend, and be a part of the movement to mend our fractured society and normalize a better way of being in community with one another.** BreadBreakers, an initiative by[ Restoration United Methodist Churc](https://restorationreston.org/breadbreakers)h in Reston, VA, is a religiously inclusive community, a collaboration between the church and those of all different beliefs. All faiths and all stripes are welcomed. Our leadership, volunteer team, and community include people who attend Restoration and people who don't.

Join us for conversations that go beyond small talk, diving into topics like the shifting nature of spirituality, the challenges and joys of midlife transitions, the impact of culture and capitalism, and the search for meaning in art, travel, and daily life. Our gatherings are about genuine, thought-provoking dialogue, with no set leader or strict agenda—just an open space to share ideas, perspectives, and experiences that matter to us. The direction of the discussion is shaped by everyone who shows up, making each event unique and enriching. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others who are also seeking deeper conversations. Let the conversation flow from topic to topic. Optional questions are listed below.

Optional Questions: Life Stages & Transitions

1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging?
2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists?
3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about?

Optional Questions: Identity After the Roles

4. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you?
5. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed?
6. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted?

Optional Questions: AI & Being Human

7. What human experiences will AI never truly understand?
8. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do?
9. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated?

Optional Questions: Belief & Meaning

10. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space?
11. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live?
12. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self?

Optional Questions: The Modern Psyche

13. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have?
14. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire?
15. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept?

Optional Questions: Work & Purpose

16. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you?
17. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors?
18. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years?

Optional Questions: Relationships & Connection

19. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why?
20. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best?
21. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others?

Optional Questions: Time & Mortality

22. What are you running out of time to say or do?
23. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite?
24. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail?

Optional Questions: Society & Culture

25. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense?
26. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing?
27. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years?

Optional Questions: Personal Philosophy

28. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way?
29. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out
30. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

Join The Charleston Coach for Mahj & Mimosas, a Troop Mahjong DMV social. Spend the afternoon playing, sipping, and meeting new Mahjong friends in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Your ticket includes one drink. ✨ Troop Perks ✨ Each new attendee gets a Troop Mahjong Society Merit Book, merit stickers, and a bingo card to track your Mahjong milestones. Returning TMS players will have the opportunity to earn merit stickers! Seats are limited, so grab yours early. Tickets must be booked using this link: https://bookwhen.com/thecharlestoncoach/e/ev-smju4-20260517120000 Please note: This is a social play event for players who already know the basics of American Mahjong. If you’re brand new, start with a Mahjong 101 lesson first.

**NOTE: AN RSVP ON MEETUP DOES NOT SERVE AS A BOOKED SPOT. YOU MUST BOOK VIA LINK BELOW TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT.** **You must book your spot through our website: [[Booking Link Here](https://www.lesbifriendstravel.com/events/la-prensa-cooking-class)]** Good food has a way of bringing people together and we're leaning all the way into that. Lesbifriends Travel invites you to Pa' La Cocina, a private hands-on cooking class hosted at La Prensa Tacos & Tapas. This one is personal. We stumbled into La Prensa after a spa day, fell completely in love with the food, and knew right away we had to bring our community here. So, we made it happen. This is two hours of real cooking, real connection, and a full meal waiting for you at the end of it all. No experience needed, no pressure, just good energy, bold flavors, and a room full of people who feel like yours. **Event Details You Should Know:** 📅 **Date:** Sunday, May 17, 2026 ⏰ **Time:** 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM 📍 **Location:** La Prensa Tacos & Tapas, 21305 Windmill Parc Drive, Unit 140, Sterling, VA 20166 💸 **Cost:** Early Bird Tickets are $95 (until May 8th). Regular Tickets are $110. (Starting May 9th) 📋 **Registration Deadline:** May 14, 2026 **What to Expect:** * Make tortillas from scratch with La Prensa's culinary team guiding every step * Prepare your own salsa to take home * Sit down together and enjoy tacos and a cocktail * Two full hours of cooking, laughing, and eating with your community Your ticket covers hands-on cooking instruction, a full taco meal, a cocktail, your take-home salsa, and gratuity. Everything is taken care of, you just show up and enjoy. **Spots are capped at 30** to keep things intimate. Don't wait on this one. **Who This Event Is For:** Black queer women and non-binary people who are interested in learning bout Mexican cuisine, cooking from scratch, and enjoying bold flavors with new friends. ✨ Lesbifriends Travel invites you to roll up your sleeves, get into it, and leave with a full plate and a few new Lesbifriends. **Claim your spot here: [Pa' La Cocina](https://www.lesbifriendstravel.com/events/la-prensa-cooking-class)!** **Note:** By attending this event, you agree to being photographed. However, if communicated, we will try our best not to capture you in photos and post you publicly. That request must be communicated ahead of time/at the beginning of the event to photographer and host.

# Ethical Culture's 150th Year - Looking Back and Forward When: Sunday, May 17, 2026. 11AM, Doors open at 10:45 for coffee Where: Green Hedges School, 415 Windover Ave NW, Vienna, VA 22180 Felix Adler founded Ethical Culture 150 years ago as a non-theistic religion dedicated ethics and seeking to improving the human condition.Randy will read excerpts from his founding address and see how they resonate in the world today and present Ethical Culture's unique ideas. Ethical Culture may be small but we are mighty. Randy Best, NoVES Leader This is an in-person only meeting. Come early get coffee!

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Physics of Baseball,”** with Scott Paulson, professor of physics and interdisciplinary liberal studies at James Madison University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-physics-of-baseball](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-physics-of-baseball) .] Profs and Pints is offering baseball fans an even bigger treat than Cracker Jack, an exploration of the physics underlying their beloved sport. Professor Scott Paulson, who regularly teaches introductory physics classes that make the physics behind real-world phenomena accessible to all, will discuss the forces and phenomena that come into play in baseball during pitching, batting, and fielding. He’ll toss you basic physics concepts that help explain how baseball’s routine plays got to be that way, and he’ll explain what’s going on in some situations where the laws of physics seem to be violated by what’s happening on the field. Ever wondered why curveballs curve or knuckleballs behave so strangely? You’ll learn how Newton’s laws and the Magnus force explain how pitchers get drastically different results from subtle differences in their releases. Curious about what exactly the “sweet spot” of the bat is? Ever wondered how big an advantage batters get from the thin air of Mile High Stadium? We’ll explore the physics of the batted ball, examining the phenomena of waves and analyzing the interaction of ball, bat and batter with the help of high-speed video. During one of the more exciting scenarios in a baseball game—the close play at the plate—fans often see outfielders throw to an infielder rather than directly to home. We’ll look at the pros and cons of this relay play, known as a “cut-off,” in the context of the physics of projectile motion. Finally, we will also look into high-profile cheating scandals involving corked bats and doctored balls. Dr. Paulson will present models to explain how these alterations to the equipment can benefit the batter and pitcher respectively, and he’ll discuss how much these models are backed up by data. These few hours in a brewpub will forever enhance your enjoyment of time at the ballpark. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Photo by Tage Olsin / Wikimedia Commons

We have many cats and kitties hoping to find their fur-ever families. Come meet them at [Pet supplies Plus](https://www.petsuppliesplus.com/store/va/sterling/4487-sterling/4487) in Sterling from Noon to 2pm on Saturday, May 17th. For a sneak peek of our adoptable animals, please visit the [Humane Society of Loudoun County website](https://humaneloudoun.org/adopt/)! If a particular fur-baby (or two) catches your eye, [complete a no-obligation application today](https://humaneloudoun.org/adopt/adoption-process/) to expedite the application process.

This is an in-person event hosted by Sahaja Yoga meditation. We offer free meditation sessions and everyone is welcome to join and experience the peace within!

Join us for brunch and Freethinker discussion! We will meet at Caboose Commons at 11am (in the upstairs area of the building) to munch and chat. We'll organize into a handful of separate tables with 6-8 people at each table. Each person will write down ideas, drop 'em in a hat, and each group will pick 'em out at random to determine our topic(s). We'd love to mix the "louder" and "quieter" voices so that everyone has a chance to weigh in—we want to hear all perspectives! :) We're a very friendly bunch, and welcome participation from newbies and old-bies alike! Come with your best ideas—anything goes. Feel free to post interesting articles, videos or thoughts in the comments section beforehand to inspire our discussion. PLEASE NOTE: We have placed a cap on the event, so if your plans change, please adjust your RSVP, so someone on the Wait List can attend.

**Note: You must register on Vedic Health's website to sign up for the sessions. Please register at: [https://www.vedichealth.org/free-clinic](https://www.vedichealth.org/free-clinic)** Experience the wisdom of Ayurveda and discover natural ways to support your health and well-being at Vedic Health’s **Free Ayurvedic Clinic Day**. During this special event, you will receive a personalized introductory assessment from expert **Vaidyas (Ayurvedic practitioners)**, who will offer guidance on your **dosha balance, diet, and simple lifestyle practices** to help you feel your best. Bring your questions and explore how Ayurvedic principles can support greater balance, vitality, and long-term wellness. Each participant will have **10-minutes with each Vaidya (total 30 min)**, including time with each Vaidya for a general dosha assessment, dietary recommendations, and practical well-being strategy. Please arrive **15–20 minutes early** to check in and be ready for your session, as late arrivals will lose their reserved spot. Join **founder Amita Jain and her team** for an eye-opening experience that may transform the way you think about health and self-care. This event is **free and open to the public of all ages**, but **space is limited** and advance registration is required. Reserve your spot at **[www.VedicHealth.org/free-clinic](http://www.vedichealth.org/free-clinic)**. We recommend bringing a **notebook and pen** so you can capture helpful insights and recommendations from your visit. Come early and step into the Meditation Museum’s **Meditation Immersive Room** to **relax, reset, and enjoy a calming meditative experience that prepares your mind and body for greater peace, clarity, and healing**. **Disclaimer:** This offering is not a medical or health evaluation. Vaidyas will not discuss specific health conditions. The session is intended for general educational purposes only and as an introduction to Ayurveda. For in-depth consultations, please visit the **[Vedic Health Ayurvedic Center](http://www.vedichealth.org/) in Rockville**. Vaidyas are trained experts in Ayurveda and are **not licensed medical physicians**. Sun., May 17th, 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm. Held at Brahma Kumaris, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl, Suite 200, 2nd Floor, Chantilly, VA. Free Event – Register in advance at: [https://www.vedichealth.org/free-clinic](https://www.vedichealth.org/free-clinic)

Whether you're Deaf, HoH, an interpreter, an ASL student, or just want to learn or practice American Sign Language (ASL), we welcome all levels of signers to come join us for an evening of ASL socializing and practice. This event occurs on the first and third Sundays of every month, in the heart of Fairfax County at the Fairfax Wegman's (corner of Route 29 and Monument Drive). We can be found on the upper level, typically near the stairs. We generally start around 7 pm. ASL beginners are welcome, but you should know the ASL alphabet and some basic signs - this is not an ASL class, but the more experienced signers are generally happy to help beginners learn and improve. There is no better way to develop your signing skills than by joining the conversation with other signers. There is a place for everyone to join, learn and practice. Regardless, we are always welcoming so don’t be discouraged to attend; this is very informal and new folks are always welcome. Note, some attendees arrive early and grab some of Wegman’s food for dinner, so you can combine a shopping trip with the ASL practice.

Looking to connect with other young adults with food allergy? Join **Adulting with Allergies**, FARE’s social club for young adults 21 and up. **[Register Here](https://www.foodallergy.org/resources/adulting-allergies-young-adult-food-allergy-social-club)!** The goal of Adulting with Allergies is to create a space where young adults can connect, share experiences, and build community. Members can participate in quarterly virtual hangouts, as well as annual in-person events hosted in cities across the U.S. Our first **VIRTUAL** session will take place on **May 26 at 7 PM EST** and will focus on navigating food allergies in the workplace. Please note that there is no limit to number of attendees. If you're interested in registering, click the link above!

**In a time of division and isolation, come be part of the community that's rebuilding the town square, one table at a time.** In BreadBreakers, we use the common space of the dining table to have conversations where neighbors can **hear, be heard, and know one another.** If you're hungry for good conversation and deeper community, join us for a Community Dinner in Reston and help blaze the trail to a healthier, more connected society and democracy. Here’s how it works: For just two hours, multiple tables of people set aside the need to "win" and instead focus on sharing, listening, and connecting. Guided by experienced table hosts, we'll tell our stories, try to understand each other, and practice being in community with those with different views or backgrounds. **At this dinner, participants will get to choose between three different topics, including some current events.** Topics range from the political, to the "slice of life", to the spiritual, to the philosophical, to the off-the-wall - but no matter which table you choose to sit at, you can be sure it'll be like no dinner conversation you've had before! You can also **suggest a topic** by emailing us at BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com. Food will be provided for free. For those who wish to provide a donation to help fund BreadBreakers, you can [give here](https://pushpay.com/g/restorationrestonumc?fnd=pO6G-N7oO7FH7Mp1u-x6mA&fndv=Lock&r=No&lang=en&src=pcgl) or at the event. We'll have vegetarian and gluten-free options available. If you have any additional dietary restrictions (Celiac Disease, vegan, etc.) please let us know at BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com so that we can implement the appropriate food handling procedures. **Join us, invite a friend, and be a part of the movement to mend our fractured society and normalize a better way of talking with one another.** BreadBreakers, an initiative by [Restoration United Methodist Church](https://restorationreston.org/breadbreakers) in Reston, VA, is a religiously inclusive community. We are a collaboration between people of all faiths and stripes. Our leadership, volunteer team, and community include people who attend Restoration and people who don't.

Social Sips & Bites family, Memorial Day weekend is calling and we’re bringing everyone together for a fun, relaxed picnic celebration with the SSB crew. Expect great food, sunshine, music, laughter, and that amazing Social Sips & Bites energy we all love. Bring your favorite dish to share with the group and your favorite drinks, and get ready for an afternoon of mingling, new friendships, and good vibes all around. This is the perfect chance to kick off summer with our incredible community. Contribution: $5 to help cover park setup and supplies. Please send a Venmo or Zelle to Judy Cheung before the picnic- by May 22nd. Her Venmo and Zelle infornation is in the sign up link. Her Zelle last four digits is 3353. Come hungry. Come social. Come ready for one of those classic SSB days where strangers become friends and friends become family. There is plenty of parking available and restrooms are also available at the park. Everyone should plan to bring their own beverages, a chair and a blanket if you wish. Please sign up on the link below to contribute help, food, and games. Sign up link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4BAAA628A7F8C34-62911568-social

[Book Your Classes by Clicking This Link! ](https://crowndancestudio.com/group-classes/) Mid-week is for the experts with **Level 3 Bachata (7:45 PM)** and **Level 3 Salsa (8:30 PM),** followed by a **Social Dance Party at 9:15 PM.** These advanced classes challenge experienced dancers with intricate footwork and styling, emphasizing the joy of high-level performance. **The evening costs $25 for the classes and social**, providing an inclusive space where advanced students can sharpen their craft and immediately practice their moves with peers. 7:45 Bachata (Level 3) 8:45 Salsa (Level 3) $18 for 1 Class $22 for 1 Class + Social $25 for 2 Classes + Social $10 for Social Only

Qamaria Yemeni Coffee is authentic, spacious, has a helpful staff, and I like their espresso. If you try this place on your own, they’re open early and late. This spot has been recommended a couple times and I think it’ll make a great stop on our journey. Come out Saturday morning for a relaxed convo. (Please keep your RSVP updated if you know you won't be able to attend, so others who can join have the opportunity to. No discussions on politics, religion or potentially controversial topics. We're here to relax and have fun. Just be respectful and we'll be alright. Pay your own way, and enjoy!)