Awareness and Mindfulness

Break the ice with a cold dip into the danube We will connect our warm hearts through Breath Work + the lovely feeling during and after a cold plunge. We meet at 11:00, 1min from U6 neue Donau at the tables. [https://maps.app.goo.gl/sX3DrKLqn4LitFHM7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/sX3DrKLqn4LitFHM7?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBEwaGp6bVhiRDRHUzJ6NXV5N3NydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5AcYpKLF1LXpvHtw2dwiLUR4LosGQyOK4tkUGxfSe5IR5ZP1eQDNxT6HNUpw_aem_xRRt_DPPCUET4Xo3EkipgA) Bring your: \- Towel \- Swim Wear \- Warm Clothes \- Favourite Tea \- Flip Flops https://www.facebook.com/events/1229480258641206/?onload_action=open_invite_flow *** Brich das Eis mit einem Sprung ins kühle Nass der Donau Unsere warmen Herzen werden wir durch Breath Work + das wohlige Gefühl während und nach dem Eisbad verbinden. Wir treffen uns um 11:00, 1min von der U6 neue Donau bei den Tischen. [https://maps.app.goo.gl/sX3DrKLqn4LitFHM7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/sX3DrKLqn4LitFHM7?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBEwaGp6bVhiRDRHUzJ6NXV5N3NydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5tvsfyXkD2hpcON4jI7RuaNL786ZKOL_8eexP0GgUzZA94lyJl-WEsEtkZqw_aem_ndP_pHjq0r_n95hCLGbbnA) Packliste: \- Handtuch \- Warme Kleidung \- Badezeug \- Lieblingstee in der Thermoskanne \- Flip Flops https://www.facebook.com/events/1229480258641206/?onload_action=open_invite_flow

We will meet in a calm and friendly place ( Parc, Café, Restaurant) to explore together some of Jiddu Krishnamurti’s key questions about awareness, relationship, and freedom. There will be no teaching, no authority — only open dialogue and attentive listening. Everyone is welcome, whether you are familiar with Krishnamurti or simply curious about life and self-understanding. We’ll start with an open conversation around a theme such as “Listening without judgment” or “Can thought bring clarity?” Please bring openness, curiosity, and a readiness to listen — no books or notes needed. The spirit is not to discuss “what should be,” but to observe together “what is.”

This event is part of our weekly event series \-\-\- Hey Badminton Enthusiasts! This meet-up is for all levels: beginners, intermediates and experts. Everyone is welcome to join, test their skills and have some fun together! The host will reserve courts in advance, that means please only register if you really plan to come (or cancel at least 24 hours before the event starts). The fee for this event is 12€ (for the 2 hours). If you plan on paying in cash, please bring the exact amount as the host might not have any change available. We are meeting at about 10.55 near the reception by the lounge area (next to the courts). Come a bit earlier so you have time to change into workout/sports clothes. The locker rooms are free to use, but you need to bring your own padlock - or you can also take your bag of clothes upstairs to the courts if you do not have a padlock. Also, bring clean indoor sports shoes, your racket and a water bottle with you. If you do not have a racket, it is possible to rent rackets from the club, if necessary (3€). Sometimes the host or other members have spare rackets - please ask in the comment section below! If you are joining our events for the first time, WELCOME! Let the host know that you are new and they will find a place for you. Don't worry, we are an open and friendly group. We are sure you will develop connections with the people in our community in no time! **Without further ado - let's play some badminton and have fun together**

Join us for **two hours** of badminton! This event is open for all levels and ages! It is part of the club Sportunion Vienna Badminton Community. We are playing in **Sportcenter Cumberland (Cumberlandstraße 102, 1140, close to the U4 station Unter St Veit).** Please bring a racket, sports clothes and shoes and a water bottle. We provide feather shuttles. You can also likely borrow a racket from one of our players if you need to.

# **Please Read Everything!** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- A gentle, honest exploration of love — **without the noise, pressure, or fairy-tale myths**. But real love is **quieter, deeper, and far more human**. It asks us to **see ourselves clearly, to let go of old patterns, and to open to connection that feels true and safe.** This event offers **a different kind of space** — a place to **pause**, to **reflect**, and to **explore what love actually means in your real, lived life**. Together, we look gently into the themes that shape our relationships: **how we love,** **how we lose ourselves,** **how we protect our hearts,** **and how we rediscover the courage to love with honesty and depth.** **What we will explore together** **• What real love is — beneath ideals and expectations** **• How past patterns shape the relationships we choose** **• How to meet loneliness, longing, or heartbreak with clarity** **• What makes relationships feel safe, alive, and connected** **• How to grow love that is steady, respectful, and grounded** **• How to live love with “Geborgenheit”** — the feeling of being safe, held, and at home in yourself and in the world **This is not a romantic workshop.** **Not a celebration of the holiday.** But an invitation to **meet love — and yourself — with honesty, gentleness, and the possibility of something more true.** Come as you are. Leave with more clarity, more courage, and a deeper sense of what real love can be for you. Tanja Odermatt & Dieter Langenecker **PS:** A contribution of €15 will be collected to cover the costs, like room coffee, tea, and cookies. Additional donations are most welcome. **PPS:** 1st door (if closed) use code 2008 + push the button with the bell symbol; at the 2nd door ring at Int'l. Management Institute/ System. Institute. Then take the elevator to the 3rd floor, apartment #49. Message us at 0681 1069 1321 for any issue Please be courteous and cancel if you are unable to attend!! **Watch this short video about Dieter Langenecker:** [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tpw7GUjzWsw&t=2s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tpw7GUjzWsw&t=2s "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tpw7GUjzWsw&t=2s")

**Focused Práctica for all levels –** *Free for participants of the full Tango Basics Course and the semester/yearly subscription to theTango Immersion Program.* Looking for a space to practice Tango Argentino with intention? The Focused Prácticas are open practice gatherings for dancers of all levels, whether you’re just starting out, deepening your foundations, or refining more advanced skills. Each práctica begins with a suggested focus and a short guided exercise to help you get started — you're welcome to follow it or do your own, no structure imposed. From there, you’re free to practice at your own rhythm. **You’re welcome to:** Train individual technique or work in pairs Practice the role(s) of your choice – Most regular attendants practice both Explore what you want for as long as you like Repeat, research, and integrate what you’re currently learning — wherever that may be This is not a class, and not a milonga. It’s a space for mindful practice, curiosity, and experimentation. There's plenty of room for those who want to practice navigation in ronda or something else on a fixed spot without disturbing each other's process. You don’t need to attend my classes to join, the Focused Prácticas are open to all backgrounds. **Here you can expect:** A welcoming, respectful atmosphere Space to focus without pressure Supportive presence if questions arise Freedom to choose what you want to work on Socializing and exchanging feedback with others is welcome; consent and respecting each person’s process is the base. When I'm traveling, the Focused Prácticas are hosted by Justina. **When & Where?** **Today at 20:15 in Zentrum Exist\*** **Sechshauser Str. 38-36, 1150 Wien** \*As part of the [Tango Immersion Weekend](https://www.jessicagerdel.com/tangoimmersion). Check our calendar for details of the next weeks. **Whether you’re building foundations, maintaining a regular practice habit, or simply looking for a place to dance with intention, you’re warmly invited.** Come as you are. Practice what matters to you. Grow together with intention. See you on the dance floor! Abrazo, Jessica **Check out our full calendar at jessicagerdel.com** **Facebook/Instagram: Abrazatango**

Moving to chill music and the chilly morning. For beginners to seasoned downward dog-ers. optional donation, suggestion 4 euros. We'll practice wearing shoes and coats -- till we warm up! I have some yoga mats in case you don't have one. Come around 10:30 am to say hello and we'll start yoga-ing around 10:45 am for an hour.

**Ecstatic Dance – Circle of Abundance** Gemeinsam erinnern · Verbinden · Manifestieren Am **Sonntag, 15. Februar 2026**, öffnen wir einen besonderen Raum für unsere Community – nicht als etwas, das wir im Außen suchen, sondern als eine Qualität, die entsteht, wenn wir **uns als Gemeinschaft verbinden und gemeinsam ausrichten**. In Zeiten wie diesen ist die K**raft des Miteinanders** ein zentraler Bestandteil unseres gemeinsamen – und zugleich individuellen – Weiterkommens. **Circle of Abundance** lädt uns ein, Fülle nicht nur zu denken, sondern zu verkörpern, zu teilen und miteinander zu stärken. ✨ I**nner Echoes** (Resident Artists in Corfu auf Europa Tour) kehren zurück, um diesen Abend gemeinsam mit uns zu gestalten – mit Tiefe, Präsenz und offenem Herzen. Das verspricht uns einen sehr hochwertigen ehrlichen Abend. Special Opening – Abundance Circle Da wir dieses Mal **um 17:00 beginnen**, eröffnen wir den Abend mit einem kraftvollen **Manifestationskreis**, der uns mit klarer Intention stärkt. In einer gemeinsamen Zeremonie erforschen wir das Thema der Fülle, lösen innere Begrenzungen und richten unsere kollektive Kraft bewusst auf das aus, was wachsen möchte. Mit entschlossenen Worten, deiner eigenen Manifestation und einer Einladung in unsere Community. Du kannst auch direkt zum Dance kommen, wie immer. Ein Raum für Begegnung, Ehrlichkeit und gemeinsames Empowerment. Künstler & Rollen 🌱 **Sebastian – Circles** Mit vertrauter Herzlichkeit und einem feinen aber entschlossenen Sinn für das was uns als Kollektiv wirklich voran bringt. ☀️ **Inner Echoes – Ecstatic Dance DJ Set** mit Tom, begleitet von Jennifers Stimme. Kraftvoller Sound, der uns mit Dynamik, Weite und Herzöffnung verbindet. 🌺 **Inner Echoes – Sound Journey & Integration** Klavierklänge (Tom) und Stimme (Jennifer) verweben sich zu einer tiefgehenden, intuitiven Erfahrung, die zum Innehalten, Lauschen und Eintauchen einlädt. **📍 Sonntag, 15.02.2026** 🕔 Start: 17:00 (eine Stunde früher) @ Vitality Base Vienna Leberstraße 118A, 1110 Wien **find.vitalitybase.at** Programmablauf 17:00 **Ankommen & Raumöffnung** 17:15 **Abundance Circle** mit Sebastian 18:30 **Anfangskreis** 18:40 **Tanzeinleitung** mit Inner Echoes (in english) 19:00 **Ecstatic Dance DJ** Set mit Inner Echoes 21:00 **Sound Journey** mit Inner Echoes 21:30 Abschlusskreis & offener Raum 🌿 Förderbeitrag: 24–44 Euro 🔗 Weitere Events: events.vitalitybase.at 🪷 **Circle of Abundance** – wo gemeinsame Ausrichtung zur Quelle von Fülle wird. Let’s create joy together.

**OSHO Active Meditation Day**  ## OSHO Active Meditation Day **Sontag\, 15\. Februar \| 10:00–16:00** **Vienna Buddha Field** 15 € pro Meditation \| 35 € für den ganzen Tag \(Zahlung vor Ort\)  Zum Jahresende kommen wir noch einmal zusammen, um zu atmen, uns zu bewegen, zu summen und in die Stille zurückzufinden. Ein ganzer Tag mit **OSHO Aktiven Meditationen** – entwickelt, um deine Lebensenergie zu wecken, Spannung loszulassen und dich in deine Mitte zu bringen. Dieses Mal erforschen wir drei kraftvolle Meditationen: **OSHO No-Dimensions Meditation** Eine aktive Zentrierungsmeditation, basierend auf alten Sufi-Techniken und von Osho weiterentwickelt. Durch Atmung, fließende Bewegungen und Wirbeln sammelt sich deine Energie im Hara – deinem Energiezentrum unterhalb des Nabels. Bewegung und Stille verschmelzen. **OSHO Chakra Sounds Meditation** Mit der Stimme öffnest und harmonisierst du die sieben Energiezentren. Die Schwingungen führen dich in eine tiefe, friedliche Stille – in Einklang mit dir selbst. **OSHO Nadabrahma Meditation** Eine summende Meditation, die Körper und Geist in Harmonie bringt. Wenn beide im Einklang sind, kannst du sie loslassen – und wirst zum stillen Beobachter. ![]() ### **Tagesplan** 10:00 – Beginn & OSHO No-Dimensions Meditation 11:40 – OSHO Chakra Sounds Meditation 13:00 – Gemeinsames Mittagessen (Potluck-Style) 14:00 – OSHO Nadabrahma Meditation 15:30 – Kurzer Sharing-Kreis & Abschluss ### **Mitbringen** * Wasserflasche * Bequeme Kleidung * Etwas Kleines für das gemeinsame Mittagessen **Geleitet von Yogi Levy** Anleitung auf Englisch  Komm, wie du bist – keine Vorerfahrung nötig. Du kannst an einer einzelnen Meditation teilnehmen oder den ganzen Tag dabei sein. **Anmeldung** Du kannst an einzelnen Meditationen teilnehmen oder den ganzen Tag erleben. Die Plätze sind begrenzt – **melde dich jetzt an und sichere dir deinen Platz!** (Zahlung direkt vor Ort) https://viennabuddhafield.com/events/osho-active-meditation-day-2/ #### *„Meditation ist nichts, was du tust – sie geschieht, wenn du aufhörst, etwas zu tun.“*— **Osho**

This is our weekly event! ----------------- Hey Badminton Enthusiasts! This meet-up is for all levels: beginners, intermediates and experts. Everyone is welcome to join, test their skills and have some fun together! The host will reserve courts in advance, that means please only register if you really plan to come (or cancel at least 24 hours before the event starts). The fee for this event is 12€ (for the 2 hours). If you plan on paying in cash, please bring the exact amount as the host might not have any change available. We are meeting at about 10:25 am near the reception by the lounge area (next to the courts). Come a bit earlier so you have time to change into workout/sports clothes. The locker rooms are free to use, but for the men lockers you need a padlock - or you can also take your bag of clothes upstairs to the courts if you do not have a padlock. Also, bring clean indoor sports shoes, your racket and a water bottle with you. There is a drinking fountain available if you need to replenish your bottle. If you do not have a racket, it is possible to rent rackets from the club, if necessary (3€). Sometimes the host or other members have spare rackets - please ask in the comment section below! If you are joining our events for the first time, WELCOME! Let the host know that you are new and they will find a place for you. Don't worry, we are an open and friendly group. We are sure you will develop connections with the people in our community in no time! Without further ado - let's play some badminton and have fun together!

Heartfulness-Meditation entspannt den Geist und stärkt das Herz. Sie ist für alle offen – ganz ohne Vorkenntnisse oder Erfahrung. So wie die Luft uns allen frei zur Verfügung steht, ist auch diese Meditation frei zugänglich. Heartfulness Meditation relaxes the mind and strengthens the heart. It is open to everyone, with no prior knowledge or experience required. Just as air is freely available to all of us, this meditation is freely available too.

**“Open Mats” Community Hangout — An Evening to Just Be Together** *🕒 Feb 15th, 15:00 – open end (20:30 latest)* *📍Tanz’Hotel (Studio 2), Zirkusgasse 35/4-6, 1020 Wien* **About the evening** This is an Open Mats community hangout — a relaxed, informal space to simply be together. There is **no program,** no workshop, and no guided practice. Instead, we open a shared room with playfight mats, pillows, gentle music and a creative corner, and let the evening unfold naturally. You’re welcome to rest, chat, move, playfight lightly, draw, cuddle, eat together, or **just be by yourself in the company of others.** Most of the time will be about being together, with room for spontaneous moments or offers from participants if they arise. **Think of it as a cosy home party — on playfight mats.** **What to Expect** – An open, welcoming and cosy space – Gentle background music and a creative corner – Time and freedom to connect (or not) – No facilitation, no structure, no goals – A light framework of **consent, safety and care**, shared by everyone *This is not a playfight workshop — even though playfight may naturally appear in a light, informal way.* **Who is this for?** – People curious about relaxed, embodied social spaces – Playfighters who want to meet outside a workshop context – Anyone who enjoys connection without a set program – Those who want to come as they are, without needing to participate in anything specific – You’re welcome whether you’re active, quiet, social, tired, playful — or all of that at once. **Practical Details** 🕒 **Time** 15:00 – doors open We start together and keep the ending open until 20:30 **Location:** Tanz\*Hotel, Zirkusgasse 35/4-6, 1020 Wien 💛 **Contribution** Donation-based, to help cover room costs. No one is turned away for lack of funds. 🍲 **Potluck dinner:** Please bring some food you’re happy to share. Vegetarian dishes only, thank you 🌱 **Joining / soft registration** There’s no formal registration for this event. If you think you might come, we appreciate a short message or a 👍 so we have a rough idea of numbers. You can reach Marco via: – WhatsApp / Signal / Telegram: +43 681 10779089 – Email: [contact@my-power.at](mailto:contact@my-power.at) Feel free to decide spontaneously — you’re welcome either way. **Hosting** This evening is hosted by friends from the community: Marco Moriggi, Hannes Reitberger, Joachim Tecklenburg, Anna Helmreich and Raphaela Immler. The role of the hosts is simply to hold the space — not to lead or facilitate. Got questions? Reach out: [contact@my-power.at](mailto:contact@my-power.at) See you on the playfight mats! ### **✨ STAY CONNECTED ✨** * **[Website & Newsletter](https://playfight.my-power.at/)** * **[Signal Group](https://signal.group/#CjQKIDKi-fEAn-mYs4BItlN8UZksyf0CGhZDZtXVoMwMi_t0EhByoQkGCYMY-S-DynQ4qQjn)** * **[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/marco_my_power/)**

Nach einem [Fachtag voller P.E.R.M.A.-Power*](https://yippie.mn.co/posts/93011487?utm_source=manual) gönnen wir uns am Sonntag mit allen Teilnehmenden, die bei der Gelegenheit unsere Wiener Action for Happiness Community, das Happy Café Konzept und unsere Glücktivist:innen Stammtisch Tradition in Wien kennenlernen möchten, ein Glücktivist:innen Frühstück im **1\. Happy Café von Wien** ! Dem EQ Equilibrium Kaffee in der Gumpendorfer Straße. [https://be-equilibrium.com/ueber-uns/](https://be-equilibrium.com/ueber-uns/) Herzliche Einladung ! Seid dabei und kommt zu unserem nächsten Stammtisch - keine Anmeldung nötig. Wir freuen uns auf dich. Das Yippie Fachtag Organisationsteam, [Márcia Ferreira](https://yippie.mn.co/members/21404949) & [Gabi Presslinger-Bukovica](https://yippie.mn.co/members/11273615) & Action for Happiness Wien Koordinatorin, [Angelika Pohnitzer](https://yippie.mn.co/members/12695955) ## [*](https://yippie.mn.co/posts/93011487?utm_source=manual)P.S. Anmeldung zum Fachtag am Samstag, 14.2.26 [https://yippie.mn.co/posts/93011487?utm_source=manual](https://yippie.mn.co/posts/93011487?utm_source=manual) ist noch hier möglich: [https://forms.gle/REiG9ScMxWYfMgiV6)](https://forms.gle/REiG9ScMxWYfMgiV6)

Das Meridian Qi Gong ist sanft und gleichzeitig kräftigend für den Körper. Wir sind jede Woche am Sonntag draußen im grünen Prater. Komm und genieße das gemeinsame Bewegen im Freien mit der Natur, die Energie, und deinem Körper. Ein wunderbarer Start für deinen Tag! Für mehr Info über das Meridian Qi Gong: http://www.ericaderoo.com/meridian-chi-kung-bewegung-fuer-mehr-vitalitaet-und-lebensfreude/ WO sind wir: Im grünen Prater, genaue Location wird bekanntgegeben nach Anmeldung. Ich bitte um eine verbindliche Anmeldung: 06502649477. Beitrag: €10

**How to take control of your subconscious and harness its power!** Join us for an eye-opening lecture where the speaker will break down complex ideas in a clear and practical way. You’ll gain insights into: ✅ The true definition of the subconscious ✅ How it generates unwanted emotions ✅ Its real purpose and function ✅ What determines the pressure it exerts on you And the most important topic: **How do you take control of your subconscious!** But this isn’t just another lecture where you sit and listen passively. It’s interactive and engaging—you can ask questions at any time. 📅 Reserve your spot now! Seats are limited, so don’t wait too long to sign up. Location: 1266 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43215 Hosted by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation

Join us at **Unity of Columbus** for *Spa for Your Soul*, a restorative and inspiring workshop designed to nourish your spirit, awaken your inner wisdom, and reconnect you with the sacred rhythm of life. Drawing from the rich spiritual insights of **Matthew Fox** and the timeless theological wisdom of **Thomas Aquinas**, this workshop invites participants into a deeper experience of spirituality rooted in compassion, creativity, and divine presence. Together, we will explore spirituality not as something distant or abstract, but as a lived, embodied experience—one that honors joy, justice, beauty, and the inherent goodness of creation. Through guided reflection, gentle spiritual practices, discussion, and contemplative moments, *Spa for Your Soul* offers a sacred space to release stress, renew clarity, and remember the divine spark within. This is an opportunity to pause, breathe, and tend lovingly to your soul—much like a spa experience, but for your inner life. Whether you are seeking spiritual refreshment, deeper understanding, or simply a peaceful space to be present, this workshop welcomes you exactly as you are. **Come, rest, reflect, and renew—your soul deserves it.**

Meeting Room 3B, Main Library 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. This first gathering is a simple introduction to the spirit of the group and a chance to meet others seeking deeper meaning and community. All backgrounds are welcome.

**How to take control of your subconscious and harness its power!** Join us for an eye-opening lecture where the speaker will break down complex ideas in a clear and practical way. You’ll gain insights into: ✅ The true definition of the subconscious ✅ How it generates unwanted emotions ✅ Its real purpose and function ✅ What determines the pressure it exerts on you And the most important topic: **How do you take control of your subconscious!** But this isn’t just another lecture where you sit and listen passively. It’s interactive and engaging—you can ask questions at any time. 📅 Reserve your spot now! Seats are limited, so don’t wait too long to sign up. Location: 1266 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43215 Hosted by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation

The emotional pain from past bad experiences easily lingers in the present, making it hard to enjoy life and create your future. Even when you think you've moved on, the negative emotions can be triggered, sending you back into the pain of that experience. And we are talking about pain; emotions such as grief, depression, anxiety, fear (or terror), boiling anger, simmering resentment, feelings of shame, blaming and regret can leave you incapacitated to a greater or lesser degree. In this local event we will be discussing the reasons why these past bad experiences have the power to affect you long after they occurred. We'll go over why the emotional pain can be so strong. We'll also discuss some simple solutions to overcome your emotional pain and be free to fully enjoy your life again. Examples of painful experiences include: * A broken relationship or divorce. * Death or loss of a loved one. * Death of a pet. * A sudden shock or bad news. * A betrayal. * Being part of an abusive relationship. * A bad injustice. * Loss of a job, position or business. * A grave illness or injury. The negative emotions from these experiences don't just go away on their own. But the good news is there is a way to clear them out of your way. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is sponsored the Dianetics & Scientology Self-Improvement Center.

We are excited to host Guided Meditations on Sundays at 6 pm in our Ashram/Gallery/Home! !! !! Everyone wants to know what kind of God we worship and what kind of meditation we do. We worship the GOD that LOVES US! We understand that god is an energy and it lives in us as us. Our meditations guide others to actually experience that energy! xoxo We don't just talk about peace, love and affection, we experience it :) Also we are a home not a business, so we enjoy building community one friend at a time. We always build in time for people to mingle & develop friendships! xoxo Much Love, Frank Tennyson Namaste, Frank Tennyson http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/f/9/9/600_447824953.jpeg

As you may or may not know--I didn't until late last year--Aristotle wrote extensively on "friendship" in the Nicomachean Ethics. After 69 years the concept of friendship still creates questions and uncertainty. I had close friends in high school and for a few years after high school but our interests diverged and people moved all over the country so it was hard to maintain connections. * So if I/you haven't talked with a friend for several years, are you still friends? Are we friends who meet at Drunken Philosophy or Omnipresent Atheists? * Can you be friends with someone with whom you have virulently divergent political views? Sartre and Camus could not. * Aristotle regarded friendship as essential to a good life, not merely an added "bonus." Do you agree? * In the Nicomachean Ethics (Books VIII and IX), he claims that wealth and power are meaningless without friends. Trump has wealth and power but seems to have no real friends, but wealth and power seem meaningful to him in perverted ways. Can you have meaning in your life without friends? * Do men and women view and maintain friendships in different ways? * Aristotle categorizes friendship into three types, based on what forms the bond: * **Utility**: Based on mutual benefit, but this type is fragile and ends when the usefulness ceases. * **Pleasure**: Based on shared enjoyment (e.g., humor, hobbies). Common among youth but fades as interests change. * **Virtue (The "Complete" Friendship)**: Based on mutual respect for each other's character and goodness. You wish good for the other for their sake, not yours. * **Key Principles of "True" (Virtuous) Friendship:** * **Permanence**: Virtuous friendships last a lifetime whereas those based on utility and pleasure are fleeting. * **Reciprocity**: Requires mutual goodwill; secret or unreciprocated affection does not qualify. * **The "Second Self"**: A true friend is "another self"—their virtue helps you understand and improve yourself. * **Time and Intimacy**: Deep ("complete") friendships are few, built on time and shared experiences. * **Self-Love and Friendship:** * Good friendship starts with being a friend to yourself. * They distinguish shallow egoism (chasing honors) from real self-love (pursuing virtue). * A virtuous person’s pleasant self-company allows them to be a stable, good friend to others. * Aristotle argues that one's social circle ultimately reflects one's character—a view with striking relevance today. Well--the Drunken Philosophy social circle certainly reflects good character!