Concentration

A chance just to work in company on your writing, be it a book, blog, screenplay, dissertation, poem, song, coursework, memoir, play, journal, travel writing or work stuff. Newcomers always welcome. No one will see what you're writing or give you unsolicited advice. WE FILL THE ROOM, so you MUST SIGN UP below AND ARRIVE BY 11.40 at the latest, or we can’t guarantee you a seat. And if you can't make it CHANGE YOUR RSVP to "not going" ASAP to give someone else a chance, thanks. WHERE? FIFTH FLOOR CAFÉ, Floor 5, Waterstones, 203-206 Piccadilly, W1J 9LE TIMINGS:- 11.00 - Café starts serving 11:30 - Host of the day will be there. Say hello, especially if you’re new. 11.40 - Brief introductions for everybody - your name and what you’re working on 11:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 12:30 – Break, chat to your neighbours if you like 12:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 13:30 - The End…feel free to stay and keep writing or chat some more. Bring whatever you need to be able to write. It’s a café, there’s some noise so earbuds/headphones/earplugs are handy. There’s very few mains sockets so charged-up laptops are a good idea too. And please remember everybody, thank our venue by buying a drink or food, and don’t consume anything from outside while you're here. IF YOU ARRIVE AFTER 11.45 - everyone will be quiet and writing. If there's no spare places then there's sofas on the sales floors below as well as one cafe at the back of the ground floor and another in the basement. The hosts won't have any other alternatives to offer you. Please feel free to join us for the break and afterwards. We’re looking forward to writing with you, your hosts, Sarah, Nick, Laura and Anna

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-woodturning-120/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-woodturning-120/) **⋆⋆⋆** If you have ever seen wood turned on a lathe and been intrigued by the bowls and forms made on it, this one-day workshop will demystify the technique and teach you basic techniques to make a simple bowl and a hardwood barreled pen. You will be led by expert, Nathan Cardwell who is a passionate woodworker and a patient tutor. When not with us, he teaches woodwork in a London boy’s school. Nathan will introduce the parts of the lathe and explain how to safely secure your work, the methods to use with each chisel and how to sand and finish your projects. During the day you will learn the ’Headstock method’ to make a small bowl in hardwood and ‘Spindle turning’ to make a wooden tube that fits into a metal pen mechanism. We will supply everything so come with curiosity and enthusiasm and leave with satisfaction, a bowl and a ready-to-use rollerball pen. We will also advise you on how to continue this fascinating hobby with guidance on buying your own lathe, tools and timber.

**We will be at The Mitre pub in central Greenwich.** This meetup is free and casual. We just sit around for a few hours and write together. Bring a laptop, or use a pen and paper or clay tablet and stylus if that's what works for you. The structure of the session is roughly: 2pm: chat 2:20–3:25: writing time 3:25: chat/coffee break 3:40–4:45 writing time 4:45: chat But our Saturdays are very casual, so feel free to drop in and out. **This is usually in the meeting room at the Mitre. If you arrive a bit later, you may need to ask the bar staff to show you through to the room.**

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-modern-upholstery-weekend-39/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-modern-upholstery-weekend-39/) **⋆⋆⋆** **KEY PROJECT: MODERN FOAM with DEEP BUTTONED CONSTRUCTION FOOTSTOOL** *All of our upholstery classes are for absolute beginners. It doesn’t matter which one you choose to take first. Each technique that is offered is part of all the processes that every upholsterer has to learn.* We have created a wonderful project to learn the classic form of deep buttoned upholstery – but made with a time-saving modern method using sheet foam. Banish those fuddy-duddy club chair ideas and say hello to upholstery with a new twist; bright colours, shiny fabrics and funky feet. One of the modules that professional upholsterers are examined on is the process of deep buttoning. The correct height of foam is selected and applied to a base. Holes are made in the base and foam. We have a traditional button press you will use to make your own buttons in whatever fabric you choose, in the same fabric as your footstool or bring 10cm of a contrasting colour. The top fabric is then folded and pleated and the button is knotted to hold the folds together. It is fitted with ‘Cabriole’ legs to complete the project. You will learn enough know-how to take away a skill to make your own headboard, banquette (I love that word) or anything else you can imagine. It’s easier than it looks and comes together in such a satisfying way. The dimensions for our footstool are 540mm x 360mm and we have allowed enough time and materials to make 9 deep buttoned holes. This size is about the smallest unit possible to learn the process of deep buttoning as an upholstery technique. We provide everything for the workshop, from the wood frame to the set of natural beech wood legs that are included for you to paint or stain as you wish. We will give you guidance if you want to know different techniques for the wood. Bring about a metre by a metre of fabric of your own, or use one of our luxurious upholstery fabrics at the centre. The use of all tools and materials is included. We also have a selection of tools and materials that we use in our workshops for sale at The Goodlife Centre for you to continue your new hobby at home.

**TICKETS AVAILABLE ✨ [HERE](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/spring-reset-retreat-intuitive-painting-and-sound-immersion-tickets-1986941342041?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl)** ✨ Slow down with a 3-hour experience of intuitive painting and sound immersion in a riverside studio by the Thames. Step into *BE Ka Art Studio*, Elena's atelier in *Trinity Buoy Wharf*, for a Saturday morning of creative exploration, mindful reflection, and a gentle, restorative reset. Creative practice is not just about making art — it nurtures your wellbeing. Research shows that creative activities can reduce cortisol (the body’s main stress hormone), ease physical tension and pain, and support emotional balance. When you enter a state of creative flow, the brain shifts into patterns similar to meditation, promoting relaxation, clarity, and presence. Art-making also stimulates the vagus nerve, activating the body’s “rest and digest” response and guiding the nervous system toward calm and safety. Sound also plays a powerful role in this process: immersive tones, such as those of singing bowls, deepen relaxation and enhance this meditative state, helping to lower stress, ease anxiety, and slow the heart rate, stimulating theta and delta brainwave activity. Through intuitive painting and sound, you are invited to regulate emotions, reconnect with yourself, and feel more grounded. Art is not about perfection or outcome — it’s a space to process, release, and return to yourself. **Creativity is medicine.** **Join for a creative reset✨** ### **The Experience** This half-day retreat (approx. 3 hours) is designed as a space to slow down, reconnect, and explore creativity without pressure. This is an intimate group experience, with a maximum of six participants, ensuring personalised attention and a deeply focused atmosphere. **Schedule** **14:00** Arrival and welcome. A short walk around the site to settle in and take in the surroundings. **14:15** Sound bath experience. We visit the nearby lighthouse for an immersive sound bath with Longplayer, a one-thousand-year-long musical composition of Tibetan singing bowls, surrounded by panoramic views over the Thames. **14:30** Return to the studio for a brief guided breathing and body-release exercise and meditation to help you arrive fully into the creative space. You’ll then move into an open, intuitive making session. There are no rules or expectations — you’re free to explore, experiment, and create at your own pace. **Your Creative Session** Depending on your selection at checkout, you will work with: * **Watercolours on paper** A3 watercolour paper, watercolours and a wooden board * **Acrylics on canvas** A3 stretched canvas, acrylic paint and a table easel **Available to everyone** Paint palettes, brushes, A4 paper, kitchen towel, apron, markers, coloured pencils, water-soluble pencils, and wax pastels. You are free to work independently, but Elena will be present throughout the session to offer gentle guidance if needed — from colour mixing to simple technical tips. #### **Optional Materials (available on site)** Additional materials can be purchased on the day if you wish to expand your work: * Watercolour sheets in various sizes * A3 mixed media paper * A3 coloured paper * A4 canvas board * A3 stretched canvas **TICKETS 👉 [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/spring-reset-retreat-intuitive-painting-and-sound-immersion-tickets-1986941342041?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/spring-reset-retreat-intuitive-painting-and-sound-immersion-tickets-1986941342041?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl)** **The studio has step-free access.** Suitable for all levels — no experience needed. ### **Please Bring** **BYOB** – No drinks or food will be provided. You’re welcome to bring your own. The studio is close to local favourites such as *The Orchard Café* and *Layers Bakery***,** if you’d like to grab a drink or snack before or after (both open every day until 4 pm). Aprons are provided, but we recommend comfortable clothes that you don't mind getting a little paint on. ## **📍Location – Trinity Buoy Wharf** The workshop takes place at **Trinity Buoy Wharf**, a historic 19th-century site in London’s Docklands, now home to one of London’s most vibrant creative communities, a sculpture park, event venues, and the iconic Container City™ buildings. More info: [https://www.trinitybuoywharf.com](https://www.trinitybuoywharf.com/ "https://www.trinitybuoywharf.com/") ### **Privacy & Photography** *By attending this event, you agree to the possibility of being photographed or filmed for promotional purposes (website, social media, etc.).* *If you prefer not to appear, please let the organiser know on the day.*

**Bookable via our website ➡️** [https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-machine-sewing-1-day-88/](https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-machine-sewing-1-day-88/) ⋆⋆⋆ If you would love to run up some new clothes or just fix a seam but are daunted by all those controls on a sewing machine, our one-day workshop will demystify them all and send you home with newfound confidence and a simple item you will make during the day. Experienced tutor Ian McQueen will guide you through how to recognise all the parts of a machine, thread the bobbins, and sew neat rows of stitching on basic materials. How to read rulers and tape measures and cut fabric accurately. Make hems, seam allowances and French seams. We have various user-friendly machines for you to try which will help you choose if you are planning on purchasing one soon. Bring lots of questions and we will supply everything else. Our classes are small and each person has a machine to themselves for the day. This is an excellent confidence booster and a great primer for all of our project sewing courses.

Tired of small talk and ready to connect on a real level? Join us for **deep**, **meaningful conversations** and **new friendships** 👯‍♀️🎉 with a group of like-minded individuals who share your interests. This event is **free** but you will be **required** to buy food or drink before you can join us 🍭🍬🧁🍰🥤🧃- having water doesn't support the venue **Who is it for?** * You want more satisfying, deeper conversations * You want more meaningful and long-lasting connections in your life * You crave more from life and know its out there * You are bored of just socialising and want to have fun and explore a new type of event! **What's in it for you?** * **No more awkward silences!** We'll provide questions to spark engaging conversations. 💡 * **Meet like-minded people** who crave deeper connections. 🤝 * **Have fun** in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. 😊 **How does it work?** * We'll pair you up with different people for **15-minute 1-1 chats**. 🔄 * **Use our questions** as a starting point, or go off on your own tangent! 🗺️ * Be **open**, **honest**, and **curious**. 👂 * 15 minutes is a good amount of time to explore a question deeply and **not have awkward silence**.⏳ * You are also **free to take the conversation in any direction** you choose.🤩 * You can always sit out a round to **take a break** 😪 **Examples of questions that we provide:** * "If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?" 🦸‍♀️ * "What's your biggest fear, and why does it scare you?" 😱 * "What's the most meaningful thing you've ever done?" ❤️ * "What would you do if you had all the money and time in the world?" 💰 **Why do we love deep conversations?** * They're **authentic**, **raw**, and **honest**. * There are **no limits** to where they can go. * You'll feel **uplifted**, **inspired**, and **connected**. 🌟 **How to be a great conversation partner?** * **Be Respectful:** Listen attentively and avoid interrupting others. 👂 * **Be Open-Minded:** Consider different viewpoints and challenge your own assumptions. 🧠 * **Be Engaging:** Ask thoughtful questions and contribute to the conversation. 💬 * **Be vulnerable:** We are a safe space, so it’s okay to be yourself 🥺 🙈 * **Be honest:** Be honest about our experience of life 🌍 * **Be curious:** Be interested in the other person ❓ 🤔 👀 **Ready to take the plunge?** 🌊 Join us and experience the magic of deeper conversations! 💫 You may leave feeling **uplifted**, **inspired**, **connected**, **invigorated**, **positive**, **grateful**!❤️ **What others have to say**: * **Parimal**: "I had the most amazing time! The conversations were refreshing and genuinely authentic." * **David Saville**: "This is a wonderful event run by two extraordinary individuals." * **Edomi**: "This is one of the best meetups I've been to. Highly recommended!" We really hope to see you there! 👋 **About Deeper Connections** We have a mission at Deeper Connections to improve the quality of people's lives through conversation. All our events are centered around the concept of connecting deeply, because we believe we all deserve to be seen, felt and understood for who we really are. To have the 'deeper conversation' approach when relating with others can change our lives and can change the world. **Our Values** * **Respect:** Treat everyone with kindness and consideration. ❤️ * **Open-mindedness:** Be open to different perspectives and ideas. 🧠💡 * **Active Participation:** Share your thoughts and engage in meaningful discussions. 🗣️💬 * **Accessibility:** We believe meaningful connection should be accessible to everyone. Our community makes this possible by supporting each other. 🤝 **Staying in touch** Interested in finding out about all the events sooner than on Meetup or staying in touch beyond the events, you can join our WhatsApp channel and community using 👉🏽 [Deeper Connections WhatsApp Channel](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6CBAdIN9ijrEYdv33z) 👉🏽 [Deeper Connections WhatsApp Community](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EqGsmF3021RKTwBpGcuR80) **Keep This Event Free 💝** If this event brings you something meaningful, you can help others access the same transformational experience. Whether it's £5 or £15, every contribution keeps these events accessible to everyone in our community. You'll find a QR code on your conversation sheet during the event, or you can contribute here #SupportYourCommunity 👉🏽 [Ko-Fi](https://ko-fi.com/deeperconnections) 👉🏽 [Buy Me A Coffee](https://buymeacoffee.com/deeperconnections) 👉🏽 [PayPal](https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/DDSNCCFCYUEB2)

**Early arrivals** 11am, this gives you the time to settle in and chat with the other writers **Start of the session** 11.30am the timer will start of no-talking and focused witing time. **End of the session** 12.30pm the no-talking time is over and you are welcome to stay and keep writing or stay and chat. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://shutupwrite.com).

Join us at the top of the biggest bookshop in Europe to work in company on your own writing, be it a book, blog, screenplay, dissertation, poem, song, coursework, memoir, play, journal, travel writing, work stuff or anything else. Newcomers always welcome. No one will see what you're writing or give you unsolicited advice. Now that our regular Saturday events are filling all the seats we're adding some Sundays when we're able to - check Meetup for dates. Same format but an hour later. WHERE? FIFTH FLOOR CAFÉ, Floor 5, Waterstones, 203-206 Piccadilly, W1J 9LE TIMINGS:- 12.00 - Shop and café open 12:30 - Host will be there. Say hello, especially if you’re new. 12.40 - Brief introductions from everybody - your name and what you’re working on 12:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 13:30 – Break, chat to your neighbours if you like 13:45 - Timer starts: write for 45 minutes 14:30 - The End…feel free to stay and keep writing or chat some more. Bring whatever you need to be able to write. It’s a café, there’s some noise so earbuds/headphones/earplugs are handy. There’s very few mains sockets so charged-up laptops are a good idea too. And please remember everybody, thank our venue by buying a drink or food, and don’t consume anything from outside while you're here. We’re looking forward to writing with you, your hosts, Sarah, Nick, Laura, Anna, Solitaire and John

Want to improve your English? 😊 No matter your level, we’re starting a new conversation group where you can practice, build confidence, and make new friends. Everyone’s welcome—come join us! Every Sunday at 2:30pm - 5min walking from Liverpool Street Station Any questions, contact Voni 07310448654

**What is the Listening Hour?** **1-hour connection and empathy space currently hosted by people who have experience in Nonviolent Communication (NVC) for people who want to increase social connection, improve listening skills and be welcomed in a strong and caring community.** **We recommend participants learn about Nonviolent Communication [here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wNjqVR6-C4s30P7T-GPOxm_8JemKl1B78GN__7z8I7Q/edit?usp=sharing).** ### **1\. Key Benefits of Improving Listening Skills** **✅ Better Relationships – Strengthens personal and professional relationships through understanding.** **✅ Conflict Resolution – Turns arguments into conversations where both sides feel heard.** **✅ Emotional Clarity – Helps you express your feelings and needs without blame.** **✅ Empathy & Connection – Encourages deep listening and compassion.** **✅ Self-Awareness – Helps you understand your own triggers and needs.** **By improving listening to ourselves and to others, we shift from reacting to responding with awareness, creating more meaningful and peaceful interactions.** For more information and registration, please see the link below. [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/listening-hour-with-coffee-and-cake-tickets-622960340147](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/listening-hour-with-coffee-and-cake-tickets-622960340147)

We love a good chat. Come and join us at Table 45

***Reminder*** 🤞:[ ](https://luma.com/aaewwnt1)**[This is not a free event. Click here to get your ticket. Register early.*](https://luma.com/aaewwnt1?utm_source=moo-mu)** If you can't click the link, see comments for a clickable version. ☕ *"I'm fine, thanks."* 🌤️ *"Lovely weather."* 📅 *"Any plans?"* Sound familiar? 👂 Does every chat feel like it's running on autopilot? 🛫 Are you hearing the same old answers, over and over again? 🔁 It’s exhausting, and it keeps everyone at arm's length. **Escape the Small Talk** is a three-hour break from the mundane. This isn't a party or a stiff networking mixer. It's not something in between. This is a different event, hosted by **More EQ**—an organisation offering intentional connection spaces globally—this Sunday afternoon event is a small, focused space to skip the superficial pleasantries and get straight to conversations that actually matter. ## **How the afternoon flows** We don't leave connection to chance, and there's no awkward mingling. The experience has both guided and more free-flowing phases. * **The Reset:** A casual, low-pressure opening to help everyone drop their city armour and ease into the room. * **The Prompts:** We gather and after some intro exercises each breakaway group size **will not exceed 6 participants**. Using uniquely developed prompt tracks, we bypass any public performance, focusing on unexpected, fun angles that naturally lower your social defences. * **The Present Element:** unless directed otherwise, phones are safely tucked away for the afternoon. For three hours, the digital noise is off so everyone can remain fully present. Instead of the usual loops (*"Yeah, keeping busy..."* or *"Just surviving the week..."*), we create a space to share real perspectives and see people without their professional masks on. ## **The details** * **When:** Sunday 21 June 2026 \| 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm\. Feel free to stay for an optional social after\. * **Where:** A handpicked space in Southwark (exact venue details unlocked immediately upon booking). * 🎟️ **Tickets:** * **Early Bird — £13** *(The Houdini Escape)* * **Standard — £15** *(The Fire Exit Escape)* * **Last Minute — £20** *(The Mr Bean Escape)* ## **What you say** > "I’m completely new to London, but after three hours here I’d already made some great mates—in fact, I still hang out regularly with one of the guys I met." — *Ben* > "It was just a massive relief to escape the humdrum daily routine and talk about something with a bit of depth." — *Jessica* > "The setup was spot on. The questions were actually really fun but still managed to show you who people really are." — *Stephen* ## **Quick Logistics** * **Can I show up solo?** Nearly everyone does. Our facilitation removes that friction the moment you walk through the door so you are brought into the fold right away. * **What's the vibe?** This feels less like an event and more like an intentional conversation among close peers—minus the corporate pitches. * **What if my plans change?** Because spaces are so limited, tickets are non-refundable. You are welcome to gift your spot to a friend—just drop us a line with their name before we kick off. **Show up curious. Leave connected.**

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros. 10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Saturday!

This is not an event, but an announcement that we are accepting new members. If you'd like to pursue joining our group, please read the "about us" section and then write us at columbusmensgroup@gmail.com with a few paragraphs about yourself, what you'd like to experience in the group, and the contribution that you'd like to make. Thank you!

Greetings writers! Come down and join your fellow wordsmiths for one hour of uninterrupted writing time in the upper level of the Market District Supermarket in Upper Arlington. The main entrance of the shopping center opens onto stairs/elevator leading up to the 2nd floor cafe section where we will have a table displaying a sign with the Shut Up & Write logo. Writing is largely a solitary craft. Practicing with others in a community setting may be the thing you need to fire your own routine. We’ll meet on Wednesday evenings, starting the clock at 6:30, following a brief period of introductions. This is solid writing time and all inclusive. Any project is acceptable, be it fiction, non -fiction, work or homework assignment. All is welcome and will remain private to you. The market boasts a Starbucks, a full service bar and various affordable food options. Parking is plentiful, free Wifi is provided as well as outlets for charging your devices, though they are somewhat limited, so plan accordingly. Show up as early as you like, or stay late. This group tends to socialize some, both before and after the alloted time, but this is not mandatory to you. Feel free to come and go as you please and late arrivals are welcome. The cafe may be noisy on occasion so headphones/ earbuds are reccommended as you see fit. Please try to RSVP if possible so that we may grab enough seats for all—the venue can be busy at times. Feel free to message me privately wth any questions and/ or concerns you may have. Happy writing!

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp.

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 11 at Streetlight Guild. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.

Mental Health, how do you understand it? How can you improve it? How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp. This group is hosted by the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

Welcome to Drunken Philosophy, a casual, curious, social discussion club. Come grab a drink and a seat at The Oracle. **Optional topic for this meetup: Where is everybody?** In 1950 the physicist Enrico Fermi was talking about aliens over lunch and asked a question that still has not gone away: if the universe is so vast and so old, and even a fraction of those billions of stars have planets, where is everyone? By the numbers the galaxy should be crowded with civilizations. Instead we look up and hear silence. That gap between "they should be everywhere" and "we see no one" is the Fermi Paradox. One of the most unsettling answers is the idea of a **Great Filter**: somewhere on the road from dead chemistry to a galaxy-spanning civilization, there is at least one step that is almost impossible to get past. Maybe the filter is behind us. Maybe life starting at all, or simple cells becoming complex, or intelligence ever evolving, is the freak accident, and we already cleared the hard part. Or maybe the filter is ahead of us, and advanced civilizations reliably wipe themselves out before they spread. Here is the part that messes with people. If we ever found life somewhere else, even pond scum on Mars, most people would call it the greatest discovery in history. But it might be the worst possible news. It would mean life is common, the early steps are easy, and the hard step is still in front of us. So the eerie silence overhead might actually be the best sign we could ask for. **Questions to wrestle with:** * Is it better to be alone? Would you rather we find alien life and learn we are not special, or find nothing and quietly improve our odds of surviving? * Where do you bet the filter sits, behind us or ahead of us, and why? * If it is ahead of us, what is it? Nuclear war, climate collapse, AI, something we cannot even picture yet? And can we do anything about a filter we cannot see coming? * Two principles pull opposite ways here. The principle of mediocrity (the Copernican principle, Sagan's "no privileged place in the universe") says we are ordinary, so what happened on Earth probably happened everywhere, which makes the silence scream louder. The anthropic principle says of course we find ourselves somewhere life was possible, since we could not observe anything else, so our being here may say almost nothing about how common life is. Which lens do you trust, and does the silence still demand an answer once you account for observer selection? * And if we did confirm life out there and had to accept we are not special, what would that do to belief in a higher power, and would shedding (or keeping) that belief help or hurt our odds of pulling together as one species? * Does any of this change how you live, or how humanity should be spending its time and money right now? As always the prompt is optional. Come for the conversation, stay for the drinks, and bring your own questions.