Drum Circle

**Come whit me, lets [Walk for Peace](https://www.facebook.com/walkforpeaceusa)** (Please, read the full event details if joining the walk - This is NOT a lets go to see the Monks pass-by meetup, this is a Lets go and join the Monks on they'r final 15+ miles from VA to DC as a day hike) The "Walk for Peace" is a 2,300-mile pilgrimage by 19 Buddhist monks from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C., started in late 2025, to spread messages of peace, [loving-kindness](https://www.google.com/search?q=loving-kindness&sca_esv=88967a97f71d192c&hl=en&source=hp&ei=WQlnafi5LPWz5NoPwrO1KQ&iflsig=AFdpzrgAAAAAaWcXaY2YxerYQCnaYyPDxGnEnebiLN0K&ved=2ahUKEwiU0s29h4qSAxW4FlkFHX9sJ0UQgK4QegQIARAE&uact=5&oq=what+is+the+walk+for+pease+movement&gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IiN3aGF0IGlzIHRoZSB3YWxrIGZvciBwZWFzZSBtb3ZlbWVudDIHECEYoAEYCjIHECEYoAEYCjIHECEYoAEYCjIHECEYoAEYCkj_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_ZIHBDQxLjOgB5iSArIHBDM2LjO4B_AUwgcGMy4zMy44yAdegAgA&sclient=gws-wiz), and [compassion](https://www.google.com/search?q=compassion&sca_esv=88967a97f71d192c&hl=en&source=hp&ei=WQlnafi5LPWz5NoPwrO1KQ&iflsig=AFdpzrgAAAAAaWcXaY2YxerYQCnaYyPDxGnEnebiLN0K&ved=2ahUKEwiU0s29h4qSAxW4FlkFHX9sJ0UQgK4QegQIARAF&uact=5&oq=what+is+the+walk+for+pease+movement&gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IiN3aGF0IGlzIHRoZSB3YWxrIGZvciBwZWFzZSBtb3ZlbWVudDIHECEYoAEYCjIHECEYoAEYCjIHECEYoAEYCjIHECEYoAEYCkj_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_ZIHBDQxLjOgB5iSArIHBDM2LjO4B_AUwgcGMy4zMy44yAdegAgA&sclient=gws-wiz), documented online and supported by communities along their route, notable for their silent, mindful journey with a rescue dog named Aloka. **Key Aspects:** * **Origin:** The walk was initiated by monks from the [Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center](https://www.google.com/search?q=Huong+Dao+Vipassana+Bhavana+Center&sca_esv=88967a97f71d192c&hl=en&source=hp&ei=WQlnafi5LPWz5NoPwrO1KQ&iflsig=AFdpzrgAAAAAaWcXaY2YxerYQCnaYyPDxGnEnebiLN0K&ved=2ahUKEwiU0s29h4qSAxW4FlkFHX9sJ0UQgK4QegQIAxAB&uact=5&oq=what+is+the+walk+for+pease+movement&gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IiN3aGF0IGlzIHRoZSB3YWxrIGZvciBwZWFzZSBtb3ZlbWVudDIHECEYoAEYCjIHECEYoAEYCjIHECEYoAEYCjIHECEYoAEYCkj_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_ZIHBDQxLjOgB5iSArIHBDM2LjO4B_AUwgcGMy4zMy44yAdegAgA&sclient=gws-wiz) in Fort Worth, Texas. * **Purpose:** To raise awareness for peace, mindfulness, and compassion, not as a protest, but as a moving meditation. * **Journey:** A roughly 2,300-mile trek across several states, beginning in October 2025 and expected to finish in February 2026, with Washington, D.C., as the destination. * **Participants:** 19 monks and a rescue dog, Aloka (The Peace Dog). * **Method:** The monks walk in silence, often barefoot, engaging in [mindful practice](https://www.google.com/search?q=mindful+practice&sca_esv=88967a97f71d192c&hl=en&source=hp&ei=WQlnafi5LPWz5NoPwrO1KQ&iflsig=AFdpzrgAAAAAaWcXaY2YxerYQCnaYyPDxGnEnebiLN0K&ved=2ahUKEwiU0s29h4qSAxW4FlkFHX9sJ0UQgK4QegQIAxAG&uact=5&oq=what+is+the+walk+for+pease+movement&gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IiN3aGF0IGlzIHRoZSB3YWxrIGZvciBwZWFzZSBtb3ZlbWVudDIHECEYoAEYCjIHECEYoAEYCjIHECEYoAEYCjIHECEYoAEYCkj_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_ZIHBDQxLjOgB5iSArIHBDM2LjO4B_AUwgcGMy4zMy44yAdegAgA&sclient=gws-wiz), with supporters offering food, water, and lodging. * **Community Interaction:** They tie blessing strings (a simple thread) on supporters' wrists as tangible reminders of peace, fostering a connection between the journey and the individuals. * **Online Presence:** The group actively shares updates, photos, and live maps on social media (Facebook), garnering significant support and media attention. In essence, it's a walking meditation and grassroots effort to promote a message of inner and outer peace through personal example and community connection across the United States. **Proper & Respectful Practice TO BE FOLLOW when meeting the Monks:** **1\. Choose simple\, clean flowers \-** Fresh flowers without strong fragrance are ideal. Simplicity reflects sincerity. **2\. Place them low\, not high \-** Gently place the flowers on the ground, never at head level or above the monk. **3\. Do not block the path \-** Set the flowers slightly to the side or just ahead of where the monk will step, allowing him to pass naturally without changing his stride. **4\. Kneel or bow if appropriate \-** If culturally appropriate, kneel or bow briefly after placing the flowers. Keep movements calm and unhurried. **5\. Maintain silence \-** Avoid speaking, calling attention, or making eye contact unless the monk initiates it. **6\. Step back mindfully \-** After placing the flowers, step back to allow space. Let the offering speak for itself. **7\. Offer with intention\, "not expectation" \-** The true offering is your mindfulness and gratitude, not recognition. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Proper way to present your self to a Monk:** To show respect in front of a Buddhist monk, it is generally recommended to **bow with your palms pressed together** (known as the *añjali* gesture or *wai* in Thai culture), which is a common and appropriate form of greeting and reverence. Full prostration (the "kowtow") is typically reserved for sacred objects like a Buddha statue during specific ceremonies, not as a casual greeting. Here are the appropriate steps and considerations for greeting a Buddhist monk: The Basic Greeting (Añjali/Wai) 1. **Bring your hands together, palm-to-palm, in front of your chest**. This gesture is called *añjali* (or *wai* in Thailand) and can be used as a greeting, a thank-you, or when speaking with the monk. 2. **Raise your hands** to a level appropriate for the monk's status. * For a typical monk, the hands are often raised to the level of the lowered forehead, with the index fingers or thumbs touching the forehead. * The higher the hands and the lower the bow, the more respect shown. 3. **Accompany the gesture with a slight bow of your head or from the waist**, keeping your back and neck straight. 4. **Avoid physical contact** such as shaking hands, especially if you are a woman, as many monks follow a strict code of conduct regarding physical contact with people of the opposite sex. \* Deeper Expression of Respect (Prostration/Kowtow) A more profound sign of respect, often referred to as kowtow in a general sense, is the full **prostration** (known as *krab* in Thai culture). This is typically done during formal ceremonies in a temple or shrine room: 1. **Kneel** on the floor with your body composed. Men usually sit on their heels, while women may sit with their legs tucked to one side. 2. **Bow forward**, placing your palms on the floor about six inches apart, and touch your forehead to the floor between your hands. 3. **Repeat this three times** to show reverence to the Triple Gem (Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha). 4. Avoid pointing your feet toward the monk or a Buddha image while seated or prostrating, as this is considered highly disrespectful in many cultures. **General Etiquette** * **Address the monk respectfully:** Use titles such as "Bhante" (Pali for "Venerable Sir") or "Venerable". In some traditions, senior monks with over ten years of experience may be addressed as "Ajahn" (Thai for "teacher"). * **Dress modestly:** Ensure your shoulders, chest, and knees are covered when visiting a temple or meeting a monk. * **Sit at a lower level:** If the monk is sitting, you should sit as well, avoiding sitting in a higher position than the monk. * **Use both hands when offering something** and avoid passing items directly to a monk of the opposite gender; use a receiving cloth or place the item on a nearby surface instead. * **Be mindful of your feet:** Never point the soles of your feet towards a monk or a Buddha image. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Join me to Welcome the Walk for Pease Monks and walk whit them on they last miles from Virginia to DC. around 15 miles. This will be a day hike, check the weather conditions on schedule day and wear layers accordingly. Be ready to bail out at any point if necessary. Main idea is to join them and follow them to they final destination on Washington DC. **(This is will NOT be your comum camaraderie gathering, "we must" remain silence all the time while we follow the monks steps on they walk to DC)** [Walk for Pease Facebook page, follow them here](https://www.facebook.com/walkforpeaceusa/reels/) [Walk for Pease main information webpage ](https://dhammacetiya.com/walk-for-peace/?fbclid=IwY2xjawPT9bdleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFjV0ZIbUticHBxclU5dUJRc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHq2pGDrfIvv2AZV2pdaC0dkMzWFNBmYhWWuxnQiPnsWrOr3oak1lAKnFmmG9_aem_iqqtCUJa4zS8dJ3O4EnzxA) [Walk track map here](https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExZWZISG9wQndOQWVuRENRcXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6y5fmBoPZS2IHWeHm2Ro3KQ-SiDQmCThN8rOw_yfU3L2pnSqCAryoy4YkYiw_aem_6ibEwErq4BfbxA_7GWNwWw&mid=1f7eSxLc3YUERnnfeAK3NMg2hBI4zKDY&ll=35.67283467249799%2C-80.27828868165432&z=5) **NOTE:** Day schedule is not certain just yet, will be update as soon we have certainty of the arrival to Vienna area or close neighborhood ( 16 miles - This is only and estimate distance, Vienna area is only a guess for now but they may arrive to any other location on a 20 miles radius from it) **IMPORTANT:** You will need a designate driver to drop you on a location where we will join the monks, at this point we don know but will be the only way not to leave any cars on an area were it can get a ticket or be toll away. This time, In my personal case, I may use public transportation or Uber to reach the meeting point. **More details will be post it soon.**

Sisters of the Willow moon circle is a safe circle for women to share, hold space, and explore our spirituality together. We engage in rituals, meditation, card pulls, and other activities geared toward creating community with our fellow seekers. We honor the divine feminine and craft new ways to forge our paths. Sisterhood and solidarity are powerful, and we can experience these together in Circle.
About the host
Sarah Karney (Mary Rose Mara) is a solitary, eclectic witch in practice for four years. She works with tarot, shadow work, and astrology to connect with the Divine Feminine. She is an intersectional feminist who loves sharing her experience as a witch, especially with those new to the craft. She leads workshops on magical practices, writes a blog (witch baby witch), and studies many forms of holistic healing. She believes in activism in the community and loves helping others find joy and spirituality.

[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Pagan Roots of Late Winter Holidays,”** a look at how ancient fertility rituals, Roman myths, and early challenges to Christianity gave us Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras, with Larissa “Kat” Tracy, scholar of medieval literature, author of several books on the Middle Ages, and visiting assistant teaching professor of English at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/dc-late-winter-holidays](https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/dc-late-winter-holidays) .] On the surface, at least, the holidays we celebrate near the transition of winter into spring have confounding contradictions. The beheading of the pious Saint Valentine is commemorated with lovemaking. Fat Tuesday’s debauchery arose as a way for Catholics to brace for the abstinence of Lent. It all makes more sense, however, when we look back to seasonal celebrations in ancient Rome and Ireland, and account for Christianity’s knack for absorbing and incorporating earlier traditions and mixing them with a host of religious sentiments. Coming to DC’s Penn Social to help us make sense of it all is medievalist Kat Tracy. Having written extensively on the synthesis of Christian and non-Christian traditions in medieval literature and culture, she’ll be serving up an assortment of lessons about the strange and dramatic origins of this February’s holidays (sparing George Washington and the presidents, of course.) It’s a talk that will forever change how you think about the season’s celebrations. Dr. Tracy will talk about how the celebration of love associated with Valentine has its roots in the pre-Christian Roman celebration of Lupercalia—the February 15th Festival of the Wolf—when certain young men ran naked through parts of the city and tapped women with goat-skin whips dipped in blood out of a belief it would make them fertile. Also in the mix is the ancient Irish festival of Imbolc, the February 1st halfway point between the winter solstice and spring equinox, marking the beginning of spring and the season of rebirth. Christians there transformed it into the feast of Saint Brigid, whose story has been found to share common traits with a pagan Irish goddess of the same name. From there, Dr. Tracy will discuss how Mardi Gras and Carnivale are Christian extensions of earlier Yuletide rites that stretched well into February, filling the time between winter and spring. Her talk will leave you with a much richer understanding of how much the medieval world shaped our current lives. (Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Torch bearers at an Imbolc Festival in Marsden, England. (Photo by mrMark / Creative Commons.)

📚 Do you love reading, but wish you had a structure and a community to share your insights with? Join our small circle of curious minds (just 4 members per gathering) as we come together for an hour of focused reading—in the calm setting of a library or the cozy atmosphere of a café. Here’s how it works: First part: Quiet reading on your own—bring a book you’re exploring, whether it’s philosophy, history, psychology, literature, or anything meaningful to you. Second part: We regroup and each person shares key takeaways, insights, or questions sparked by their reading. This sparks a structured yet free-flowing conversation around ideas, perspectives, and personal reflections. Why join? Add structure to your reading habit. Discover new books, authors, and ideas through others’ choices. Build real connections by sharing and listening deeply. Socialize around something meaningful instead of small talk.

Fun games and activities designed to help you practice speaking Spanish and mingle in a low-pressure environment! Spanish learners of all levels and native Spanish speakers are welcome. **FAQ** **Who is this for?** From Beginners to native Spanish speakers, all are welcome! **I am very Beginner. Should I still come?** Yes! The activities are designed so that people of all levels can follow along. If it ends up being too challenging or if you don’t understand something, then pat yourself on the back, because that means you are learning! The hardest part is showing up. If you are feeling a bit scared, I challenge you to step outside your comfort zone and show up for yourself tonight! :) **What will we do?** We typically do one activity that encourages you to use Spanish to mingle with others, and a second activity that is a table or board game. We keep things light, fun and silly! **Do I have to drink?** Nope! The focus of this event is speaking Spanish. A bar is present if you would like to partake. **Is this event free?** Yes! However, you are encouraged to purchase food or beverage from Haydee’s, as they allow us to use their space free of charge. **Can I stay after 7:30pm?** This is a great idea! Feel free to stick around and grab some food or drinks. Haydee’s has karaoke, and it is quite special to see all of the best singers in the neighborhood belt out their favorite tunes in Spanish. See you there! \- Ariel

Calling all Crew Members! 🚢 BBaddies On A Track! We will be meeting at 6am to hit the track. We will do a warm up and then a few drills and sprints on the track! We will also have fun and be in community!

Open your heart, find your voice... We invite you to come sing with us! Gathering together, we will sing some sacred songs from various traditions/cultures. This is a wonderful heart-opening experience. An opportunity to connect with yourself, others, and Spirit through song. Let's share this medicine in community like our ancestors have done for generations before us. No experience needed - come as you are. Song sheets provided. Rhythm instruments, such as rattles and drums, are welcome. This event is led by Mandy and Theresa. Space is limited, so RSVP is required. This also helps in case we need to notify you of any changes or updates. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early so you can get situated. Given the time of year, this event will be held indoors in our large great room. FIRST TIMERS: All are welcome, as long as you come with an open/positive mind and respectful heart. No prior experience necessary. You are also welcome to walk our grounds or check out our crystal shop. IMPORTANT DIRECTIONS: The address is 15406 Riding Stable Rd. Property is at end of 1/2 mile long driveway into the woods. You will drive over a small stream. Please be EXTRA MINDFUL to drive slowly (under 10 MPH) so as to not stir up any driveway dust. It is a shared driveway, so it’s important to respect our neighbors. Please do not stop to interact with horses. Suggested Donation: $15-30. There's a bowl by the front door. Put in what feels right. There are also Venmo and Paypal options. With Love and Gratitude

This is a regularly held in-person integration circle and a supportive container that centered on psychedelic experiences. We co-create a space of inclusivity, compassion, and care for all. We gather to help each other integrate our journeys, find "the others", and or seek wisdom about altered states of consciousness. Arrive ready to share honestly, openly, and from the heart. Bring your insights from journeys to unpack or your questions about plant medicines and psychedelic experiences to ask the more experienced journeyers. At 7 pm we will do a short grounding exercise and a brief check-in/ice breaker. At 7:15 pm we will begin the integration circle with honest and open processing of psychedelic experiences. Your facilitators are trained in psychedelic integration and or other coaching/facilitation modalities but we are not mental health professionals, we are community members called to service in mutuality. The event is by donation as we do need to pay for the space and supplies used. The suggested donation is $10-$20/person (cash, Paypal or Venmo). Surplus above and beyond covering costs will go towards future community event facilitation and or materials.

Get started! Whether you are experienced or a complete new thisdrum class offers fun for you. Learn the basics of popular Brazilian rhythms: samba, samba reggae, axé, ijexa and more. We provide the drums in a fun atmosphere to learn. Drop in:$10

Open your heart, find your voice... We invite you to come sing with us! Gathering together, we will sing some sacred songs from various traditions/cultures. This is a wonderful heart-opening experience. An opportunity to connect with yourself, others, and Spirit through song. Let's share this medicine in community like our ancestors have done for generations before us. No experience needed - come as you are. Song sheets provided. Rhythm instruments, such as rattles and drums, are welcome. This event is led by Mandy and Theresa. Space is limited, so RSVP is required. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early so you can get situated. FIRST TIMERS: All are welcome, as long as you come with an open/positive mind and respectful heart. No prior experience necessary. You are also welcome to walk our grounds or check out our crystal shop. IMPORTANT DIRECTIONS: The address is 15406 Riding Stable Rd. Property is at end of 1/2 mile long driveway into the woods. You will drive over a small stream. Please be EXTRA MINDFUL to drive slowly (under 10 MPH) so as to not stir up any driveway dust. It is a shared driveway, so it’s important to respect our neighbors. Please do not stop to interact with horses. Suggested Donation: $15-30. There's a bowl by the front door. Put in what feels right. There are also Venmo and Paypal options. With Love and Gratitude

**Welcome to Men's Circle, hosted at Sticks and Stones!** This is a group oriented towards fostering connection between men in our local community, while also accomplishing magickal working and intentional discussion around metaphysical topics. Please read the following code of conduct for our group, and message the facilitator or call the shop and ask for Merlin for any questions. Code of Conduct 1. We are all, in good faith, men. Whichever way that manifests, we take it on good faith that all attendees are male identifying. 2. We respect all walks of life and spiritual practice. We honor and respect men from every walk of life and spiritual practice. Freedom ends where it infringes on the practice of another. We do not evangelize, prostelitize, or talk down on others. There is no initiation, or universal code of spiritual conduct here. 3. What happens in Men's Circle stays in Men's Circle By attending, you accept a sacred duty to keep the trust and faith of the other attendees, do not share or discuss anything we share in circle. *(The secret answer to the question is "Salt on the Wind")* 4. Respect the circle Once the circle is cast, we are focusing our energy on magickal topics, and making the best use of everyone's time. With great love, we may ask you to redirect or keep a line of thought shorter or more intentional. 5. Arbitration is immediate and help-oriented If you run into a pain point or offense in our group, please speak up immediately and let your thoughts be heard. We are here to respect and grow and support each other as a community, let us help and grow together. **The next few weeks, we will be focusing discussion and practices around the following topic:** What does self-love and esteem mean for men?

**GOOMBAY MEETUP** *brings you* **The MARDI GRAS PARADE at The WHARF Parade & Social** **Sunday\, Feb\. 15\, 2028 \| 1:00pm\-4:30pm** **\*\*YOUR MUST REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT AT [WWW.GOOMBAY.NET](WWW.GOOMBAY.NET) OR AT THE LINK BELOW!** **[http://goombaydc.leagueapps.com/events/4893437-mardi-gras-at-the-wharf-with-goombay-2026](http://goombaydc.leagueapps.com/events/4893437-mardi-gras-at-the-wharf-with-goombay-2026)** **GROUP MEETING POINT:** 1\. Meet at the Boardwalk Bar & Arcade \| 715 Wharf St\. SW DC \| 1:00pm\-3:00pm *$10 to reserved your seat (beads provided)-SPACE IS LIMITED & NO REFUNDS* 2\. Meet at the parade route across from Boardwalk Bar & Arcade \| 3:00pm **EVENT AGENDA:** * 1:00pm - Registered participants meet at the Boardwalk Bar & Arcade for the social * 3:00pm - Group will move to the parade route across the street from Boardwalk Bar * 3:30pm - Mardi Gras Parade Begins * 4:30pm - Live Music on all WHARF stages * 6:30pm - Fireworks (for those that decide to hang around) *This is a rain/snow or shine event!* **SUGGESTED THINGS TO BRING:** * Dress in layers so that you can take off when your hot, and pile on when your cold * Dress in Mardi Gras colors (Purple/Green/Gold) and bring your beads * Handwarmers (optional) * Wipes for when you have to use the restroom * Batter pack for your phone * Small tripod stool for sitting (optional) * A good cup for your drink * Your personal drink stash (optional) * A bag or day pack to carry all your stuff **TRANSPORTATION:** Plan your transportation early! There are plenty of parking garages in the area, but arrive early. You can also catch the Metro Green Line and get off at the Waterfront station or take a Ride share. **For more information, contact Butch at (202)210-1957**

Danceintime runs Cuban Salsa Classes & Social Dancing Every Saturday, all year-long. Come at 1:15 pm to sign in. Stay till 4 pm. Some of us go out for coffee or a bite to eat afterwards and everyone is welcome! $15/person. Cash, PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, or Card accepted. Chevy Chase Baptist Church; 5671 Western Ave. NW; Washington DC 20015. NOTE: Enter through back corner door of the church. Danceintime classes are great fun. The dance moves are beautiful, fun, and our class creates a bonded community... Check it out! Class will be held every Saturday in December....celebrate the holidays with dance! For more info: danceintime.com/classes Questions? Contact Barbbernsteintalks@gmail.com

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.

**Men of Unity** is a safe, welcoming space for men to connect, share, and grow together. In this circle, we explore what it means to live with purpose, integrity, and spiritual awareness in today’s world. Through open dialogue, reflection, and mutual support, we learn to balance strength with compassion, confidence with humility, and action with mindfulness. Whether you’re seeking deeper spiritual connection, personal clarity, or simply a supportive brotherhood, this group invites you to bring your authentic self and grow in community. Each gathering may include: * Open discussion on real-life challenges and victories * Guided reflection, prayer, or meditation * Encouragement for living from truth, not fear * Tools for emotional and spiritual growth No preaching. No pressure. Just real men, real conversations, and real transformation.

💖 𝐕𝐀𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐄’𝐒 𝐃𝐀𝐘 𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐒𝐀𝐋𝐒𝐀 𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐃! 💖 𝐒𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐋𝐄𝐒 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐎𝐔P𝐋𝐄𝐒 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞! . 𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐞’𝐬 𝐃𝐚𝐲? 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐧𝐨 𝐟𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 “𝐖𝐞 𝐆𝐨𝐭 𝐘𝐨𝐮!” 💯 . 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐬! . 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐜 / 𝐅𝐮𝐧 𝐄𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞𝐬! . 𝐆𝐞𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐍𝐎𝐖 𝐛𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐠𝐨 𝐔𝐏 𝐨𝐧 𝟏/𝟑𝟏 𝐚𝐭 𝐌𝐢𝐝𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭! . 💥 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐚 💥 𝐅𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠: 💥 𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐚 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐝: 𝐀𝐥 𝐒𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐥 𝐈𝐲𝐚! . 💥 𝐒𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐅𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟏𝟒 💥 𝟖 𝐩𝐦 – 𝟏 𝐚𝐦 . 🟣 Salsa, Bachata, and Merengue 🟣 Dancing All Night Long! . 👉 𝐁𝐮𝐲 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐄𝐑 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐝 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐍𝐎𝐖 𝐚𝐭: https://columbussalsadancing.com/live-salsa-band-tickets-super/ . Lincoln Street Salsa 1717 Brice Rd Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068 . 🟣 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 8:00 pm – 8:30 pm . 🟣 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐧! 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm . 🟣 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐃𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐚 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐝! 9:30 pm – 1:00 am . ✅ Cover Includes Dance Lesson and/or Party! . 👉 𝐁𝐮𝐲 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐄𝐑 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐝 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐍𝐎𝐖 𝐚𝐭: https://columbussalsadancing.com/live-salsa-band-tickets-super/ . 👉 $𝟐𝟎 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐄𝐑 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐝 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 (𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝟏/𝟑𝟏 𝐚𝐭 𝐌𝐢𝐝𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭!) . 👉 $𝟐𝟓 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐝 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 (𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝟐/𝟏𝟒 @ 𝟓 𝐩𝐦!) . 👉 $𝟑𝟎 𝐀𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐨𝐨𝐫 . ✅ 𝐍𝐨 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐲! ✅ 𝐍𝐨 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐝! ✅ Always Other People to Dance With! ✅ Singles, Couples, Beginners, and Pros Welcome! . ✅ BYOB ✅ 18+ . ✅ 𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬? 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭: LincolnStreetSalsa.com 𝐎𝐫 𝐓𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐓𝐨𝐝𝐝: 𝟔𝟏𝟒-𝟕𝟕𝟒-𝟖𝟏𝟒𝟔 . 👉 𝐁𝐮𝐲 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐄𝐑 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐝 𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐍𝐎𝐖 𝐚𝐭: https://columbussalsadancing.com/live-salsa-band-tickets-super/ .

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!

**Community Dance – Every Friday at Unity of Columbus** Let go of the week’s stress and move into joy! Join us every Friday for an evening of community, connection, and dance at Unity of Columbus. It’s a chance to meet new friends, express yourself through movement, and experience the emotional healing that comes from music and rhythm. No dance experience needed — just bring your energy, an open heart, and your dancing shoes! Dance is freedom. Dance is healing. Dance is fun.