Engaged Buddhism

We'll walk from Hillview MRT Exit A towards Diary Farm Carpark B, Wallace Trail, Rifle Range, heading towards Rifle Range Nature Park, stop at Colugo Deck for some photos, walk along Rail Corridor, Wallace Trail and back to Diary Farm Carpark A Suitable for beginners. **Date : 4 Feb 2026 (Wed)** **Meeting Time: 7.45am** **Meeting point: Hillview MRT Exit A** **Est distance: 7.5km (about 1 hr 50 mins)** **Event Host : Mak** Pre-hike checklist: \* Eat a light breakfast. \* Bring about 500ml of water Bad weather contingency plan: \* Waterproof your belongings and bring rain gear (rain cover, jacket, poncho, or umbrella). Please read this #1 - This is a number-controlled event. Please come only if you are on the attending list. #2 - We will move out at 0745 sharp. We are not able to wait for late-comers. #3 - As this is a limited number event, please check your calendar and make sure you can come before you RSVP. Do not change your attendance at the last minute and deny someone else who genuinely wishes to come.

“When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be” Accompanied by grounding sounds and vibrations from Tibetan singing bowls, we invite you to join us in this practice for releasing and resetting your energy using a combination of meditation techniques. It allows for deep relaxation of the mind, body, reset the nervous system, release any judgements and limiting thoughts and beliefs to promote deep healing, calmness and the ability to connect more deeply to your innate wisdom.

🚨 ***FIRST TIMERS*** 🚨 * This is a 90-min Intermediate-level fitness bootcamp suggested for those who do HIIT/bootcamps/F45/etc at least 2x/week * Depending on weather/WOD, we rotate between 5 different spots, thus check comments/photos here on Tue 6pm for exact location & grouping * Rain-or-shine event: won't be cancelled. Held under shelter if it rains * RSVP closes on Tuesday 530pm. If you’re unable to attend, kindly cancel your RSVP by then, so our leaders have a more accurate count to plan the workouts more effectively * Recommended: Water, Mat, Gloves, Light weight/bottles for added resistance Cya then! 🔊 ***DISCLAIMER*** 🔊 Please take a minute to read the following information regarding your participation in FitFam workouts. By signing up for this session, you confirm that you have read and understood the terms and risks detailed in our Disclaimer and Release of Liability Agreement: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MV9siOKELtbsSmCwwvp1rzJ-_GiAHGEW/view

This practice allows you to reignite your own self-healing ability. Your body and mind are in constant communication with each other and collectively they hear what you are thinking, saying, and believing about yourself. Your thoughts and the words used to shape them, can influence your body’s ability to heal. With the use of affirmations, these positive statements can help you overcome self limiting beliefs and negative thoughts. And along with the sounds and vibrations of the Tibetan Singing Bowls, allow yourself to shift into a positive state of mind and let the body be fully relaxed for the healing to begin.

Reconnect with your body, breath, and nature through a grounding Hatha Yoga practice set in the lush greenery of Singapore Botanic Gardens. This class is designed to energise the body, calm the mind, and leave you feeling refreshed and centred for the day ahead. **What to Expect** * **Kriya (breathing techniques)** to cleanse and detox the body * **Hatha Asanas** to stretch, strengthen, mobilise, and relax the body * **Pranayama & long mindful relaxation** to quieten the mind and reduce stress * Gentle guidance with **variations for every body**, including complete beginners No prior yoga experience needed. We have been practising there since 2018. If you’ve never done yoga before, you are most welcome 💙 **Class Schedule** **Friday** * 7:15am – 8:15am * 9:00am – 10:30am **Sunday** * 8:00am – 9:30am *Other weekday classes are also available and taught by other teachers:* * Monday: 8:30am – 9:30am * Wednesday: 7:00am - 8:00am **Fees** * **$40 per person (single drop-in)** * Class packages available on[ www.namastewithhwee.com](https://www.namastewithhwee.com/booking-calendar/botanic-garden-yoga-class?referral=service_list_widget) **Meeting Point** * Meet **10 minutes before class** * **Botanic Gardens MRT, Exit A (Level 1)** **What to Bring** * Comfortable exercise clothing * Yoga mat * Towel & water bottle **How to Reserve Your Spot** Your spot is **only confirmed after WhatsApp confirmation from the host**. -> **WhatsApp Hwee:**[ +65 9646 9599 ](https://wa.me/6596469599) -> Or purchase a ticket via [www.namastewithhwee.com](https://www.namastewithhwee.com/booking-calendar/botanic-garden-yoga-class?referral=service_list_widget) Follow on social media: Instagram & Facebook: **@NamasteWithHwee** **About the Instructor – Hwee Hwee** Hwee is a yoga instructor who hurt her wrist, dampening her asana practice and just could not recover it 100% with physiotherapy and Traditional Chinese Medicine. A calling drawn her to **Reiki healing** and her recovery progressed so much more! Hwee is an advanced Reiki Level 3 practitioner. With yoga, Hwee fell in love with the **low impact** workout (which was gentle for her teenage injured lower back). Wanting to know yoga beyond the physical aspects (asanas), she went to one of the oldest yoga school in world, G.S. College of Yoga and Cultural Synthesis, Kaivalydham in Lonavla, Pune, India in 2017 and attained her Hatha Yoga teaching certifications from both Kaivalydham and Quality Council of India (QCI) by Indian Yoga Association. Hwee is also into meditation since 2013 and with Hatha Yoga now, the practice between asana (physical exercise) and meditation has integrated into one. > *“We don’t do meditation — meditation happens to us.”* Join Hwee for a nourishing outdoor practice of yoga, pranayama, and gentle healing. Hwee also speaks **Chinese & Japanese.** Instagram & Facebook: **@NamasteWithHwee** [https://www.facebook.com/namastewithhwee/](https://www.facebook.com/namastewithhwee/) [https://www.instagram.com/namastewithhwee/](https://www.instagram.com/namastewithhwee/) [www.namastewithhwee.com](www.namastewithhwee.com)

Argentine Tango Trial Class The best place to start your Tango dancee journey. Suitable for pure beginners. No partner required. Besides getting a trial of Argentine Tango dance, you get to mingle with the community after the class. We believe the community is an important factor to new dancers. Fee : $12

Join me on Wednesday mornings for a hatha yoga class at Botanic Gardens to unwind, stretch, & breathe in the fresh air. Small class size. Hi! I'm Karyn. I organise this small group Hatha Outdoor yoga class for beginners at Singapore Botanic Gardens. Find me at IG [@curiosandyoga](https://www.instagram.com/curiosandyoga/) or [@lalanglifesg](https://www.instagram.com/lalanglifesg/) (a collective of yoga instructors for private yoga sessions at home/your preferred location). **Small Group Outdoor Hatha Yoga Class at Singapore Botanic Gardens** *Perfect for beginners who want to start their yoga journey in a* UNESCO World Heritage setting. **What You'll Experience:** This is an intimate outdoor hatha yoga class for *newcomers to yoga* and those seeking *a gentle introduction to mindful practice*. With class size **capped at just 4 participants**, you'll receive personalised attention while enjoying the tranquil environment of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. **Who This Class Is For:** * Complete beginners who have never tried yoga before * Busy professionals looking for stress relief in nature * Anyone intimidated by large studio classes who prefers small group settings * Nature lovers who want to combine outdoor time with wellness practice **What Each Session Includes:** * Breathing exercises to ground yourself, centre your mind and be ready for the practice * Gentle loosening and warm-up exercises that prepare your body safely for yoga poses (asanas) * Beginner-friendly yoga asanas (poses) taught with clear, step-by-step guidance * Relaxation and pranayama (breathing techniques) to end your practice **Why Choose Outdoor Yoga at Singapore Botanic Gardens** * Enhanced mental well-being: Studies show that being in green spaces reduces stress * Fresh air & sunshine benefits: Outdoor practice improves oxygen flow and energy levels * Small group: Maximum 4 participants ensures individual attention **Class fee is SGD20.** Meetup collects payment in USD. If you will like to pay in SGD, sign up on Eventbrite or DM for paynow payment. https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/outdoor-yoga-for-beginners-3548139?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=creatorshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=odclsxcollection&utm-source=cp&aff=escb **Things to bring:** * ***Yoga mat*** * A small towel * Water * Optional ground sheet/picnic mat or large garbage bag. We may practise on the grass. If you might be uncomfortable laying your yoga mat over the grass (which tends to be damp), do bring something to place under your mat. * Insect repellent will be a good idea **Location** **Meeting point.** We'll meet at the open lawn where the **Bougainvilleas and Bamboo collection** is. Look out for my *yellow* bag. * If you are coming from the **Botanic Gardens MRT Exit A** (circle line), (1) enter the gate then walk through Trellis Garden. (2) Take the middle path. (3) Turn right once exiting Trellis Garden. (4) Look out for the bamboo trees. Then walk on the stone path. (5) You should see the open lawn with bougainvilleas. (6) Look out for my Yellow bag. * If driving, the nearest carpark is near Melati Gate. Google map: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/PhHFbQAEFNB7j1pc6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/PhHFbQAEFNB7j1pc6) **Note: In case of rain or otherwise, the session shall be cancelled and not proceed. I will try my best to inform you of such cancellation via your registered email at least 45 minutes before the session. I appreciate your understanding on this. Your fee will be refunded if the class is cancelled due to rain.** **Release and waiver of liability** By your getting a ticket to this event, you: \- consent to the voluntary participation in the yoga session conducted by the organiser; \- understand that you should consult a physician before participating in the yoga session;\- recognise that it is your responsibility to notify the organiser of any serious illness or injury before the yoga session; \- will not perform any postures to the extent of strain or pain; \- assume full responsibility for any risks\, injuries\, or damages\, known or unknown\, which I might incur because of the yoga session; \- knowingly\, voluntarily\, and expressly waive any claim you may have against the organiser\, for injury or damages that you may sustain because of participating in the yoga session\. **Photography/videography** Photos and/or videos may be taken during the class. The photos/videos may be put up in the public domain for publicity purposes. If you do not wish to have your photo/video used, please inform me during the class.

To confirm your participation, please email **completeme@outlook.sg** or WhatsApp **81252321** us at least 3 days before the event. Please note that marking yourself as “Interested” on Meetup does not confirm your slot. Kindly contact us early to secure your place. **Walk-ins are not allowed.** Looking to meet someone who shares your outlook on life? This unique speed dating event is tailored for Buddhists and free-thinkers — individuals who value open-mindedness, thoughtful conversation, and meaningful connection. You’ll enjoy meaningful 1-to-1 rotations with the opposite gender, specially curated to help you create genuine connections. At the end of the session, our mutual matching process helps your newfound connections continue beyond the event. Your experience doesn’t end there. You will be invited to a private Telegram group for one week, providing the opportunity to continue conversations either in the main group or privately with your matches. Your ticket includes: ✨ 1 complimentary drink ✨ Guided 1-to-1 rotations ✨ Mutual matching ✨ A week-long facilitated Telegram chat group If you’re looking to meet new people, expand your circle, and potentially discover someone special — this is an event designed for you. **Cost:** Lady's Ticket $38 Gentlemen's Tickets $38 This event is organised by **CompleteMe Dating Agency**. Founded in 2012, CompleteMe is a Singapore-based dating agency known for its curated dating events and speed dating sessions designed for working professionals. Having organised over 1,000 dating activities, the agency has helped countless singles meet, connect, and build meaningful relationships over the years. As a legit dating agency, CompleteMe conducts verification checks to ensure that all participants are legally single.

🏛️ **WHAT'S PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY ABOUT?** Practical Philosophy is a weekly meet-up that brings critical thinkers together for an opportunity to dive deep on a topic, practice communicating, and building a community. All with no ‘official’ philosophy knowledge required! 😎 Practical Philosophy is based on the idea that philosophy should be accessible to all, and not something reserved only for academics. Each week we choose a topic, and the goal is to use the conversation to develop our critical thinking and communication as we explore that topic. The goal is to help develop our Critical Thinking, Communication, and Community 🙌 📓 **HOW DOES IT WORK?** Each week, we pick one topic and discuss it. The topic for the week is shared, generally in the [Whatsapp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Hg7zL8ClpzM3agJCvw5HDS), along with jump-off points to get the conversation going. When groups get bigger than 7-8 people, it’s important that we break into smaller groups. This way we are able to maintain a conversational flow as opposed to having our meetups feel like a discourse or lecture. **General Meeting Agenda** Each Practical Philosophy meet-up follows this general timeline: * 19:00-19:15 - People arrive and chat, get to know each other before the ‘official' start. * 19:15-19:25 - Meeting introduction, explanation of Practical Philosophy and the topic for the week, read the guidelines and the overview so attendees know what to expect in terms of timelines. * 19:25-20:45 - Break into small groups - introduce yourselves and general thoughts on the topic, open discussion afterwards. At this point the group can review the ‘jump-off’ questions as needed, but they are just there to help guide the conversation. It’s not obligatory to answer them. * 20:45-21:00 - Bring everyone back together to discuss conclusions of the topic - each group gives a short 1-minute summary. Organizer concludes the meeting and everyone takes a group photo. * 21:00 - The official meeting is over but it’s a great opportunity to get to know people in a non-structured environment, so we often stick around, chat, and get to know each other. **🧧PRICING?** Practical Philosophy Club is FREE to attend! We just ask that if we are meeting in a café, buy a beverage! Some chapters rent a space for us to meet, and they may ask for donations to help contribute to the cost of rent. Donations will always be 100% voluntary though! 💛 WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY 🗣 “I feel like Philosophy Club helps someone build their own belief system through a series of perspectives while not promoting what’s right and wrong” - Ekam 🗣 “I got hooked from day 1 (the topic was authority) and felt it was the right place for me. I feel it is a place where people can go to learn and discuss new perspectives and increase critical thinking and community by interacting with people who might challenge your point of views but at the same time encourage you to have openness and mind flexibility.” - Daniel **🤓 FAQ** * ​What will we talk about? What's the topic? ​The topic for the week is shared every Sunday in the Whatsapp group. We try to add the topic to the comment section on this event page as well but if you don’t see it, the topic and the jump-off points will be in our [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Hg7zL8ClpzM3agJCvw5HDS). * Do I need to study or read anything to attend? No preparation is necessary. This isn’t a study of other thinkers. We want to know what YOU think about the topic, not what an old philosopher thought. If you have a perspective from a religion or a school of thought to share, throw it on the table and we’ll discuss it, but it's not required. * Is there a specific philosophy that Practical Philosophy is focused on? The goal of our meet-ups is to not have dogmatic discussions, and flex our critical thinking muscles. Because of this, we want to hear from every realm of thought, and don't study a particular school. * Is it mostly men that attend? Surprisingly, no! Although philosophy is seen as a Candelabra affair in a dark room with a bunch of guys, our Practical Philosophy meetups are generally 50/50 between genders, and we don’t meet in any dark rooms. * Can I come alone? Of course you can, we encourage it :) * Can I be late? Please don't be! We do have a 15 minute grace period where we allow people to funnel in while we hang out, but after that if you arrive too late, it disrupts the flow of the conversation. * Where do you meet? The location is posted in Meetup and our [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Hg7zL8ClpzM3agJCvw5HDS) group for this location. It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you join the Whatsapp group! If you want to know what other cities have a Practical Philosophy Club, you can see our chapters on our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club/practical-philosophy-locations/). **PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY - Making Philosophy Available To All.** ✨ Practical Philosophy hosts weekly, in-person meetups in over 20 countries, including Canada, Spain, Japan, Mexico and many more! 🗺️ \*\*\* Join our [Whatsapp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Hg7zL8ClpzM3agJCvw5HDS) 👈 Follow us on [Instagram](www.instagram.com/practicalphilosophyclub/) 👈 Our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club/) 👈

Join us for an exciting franchising exploration session to explore the **Louise Candle franchise opportunity**! Louise Candle is a **Singapore-based, eco-conscious brand** creating natural, hand-poured candles that are paraffin-free and crafted with premium ingredients. With growing demand for sustainable and wellness-inspired products, we are now opening opportunities for passionate entrepreneurs to be part of our journey. At this session, you will: ✨ Learn about the **Louise Candle brand story** and values ✨ Understand the **franchise model** ✨ Explore marketing and business support provided to franchisees Whether you’re a business enthusiast, investor, or simply love artisanal candles, this is your chance to discover how you can light the way with **Louise Candle**.

### *A Practical Introduction to Awareness* In our fast-paced lives, we often function on autopilot—reacting to situations, emotions, and pressures without truly understanding what’s happening within us. This session offers a gentle and practical introduction to **awareness**—the ability to observe yourself, your thoughts, and your responses with clarity and calm. **The Art of Conscious Living** is not about religion, belief systems, or complex philosophy. It is about learning how to stay present, balanced, and responsible while navigating everyday life—studies, work, relationships, and personal challenges. Through simple reflection, guided awareness practices, and real-life examples, this session will help you: * Understand what awareness really means (beyond theory) * Observe thoughts and emotions without being overwhelmed * Respond to life situations with greater clarity instead of reactivity * Bring calm, focus, and balance into daily living This session is **experience-based and beginner-friendly**, suitable for anyone curious about meditation, mindfulness, or conscious living—no prior experience required. 📍 **Location:** Singapore 🧘 **Includes:** Guided awareness practice & reflection 🌱 **Open to:** All levels Come as you are—curious, busy, or simply seeking a quieter, more conscious way of living.

**For ages 16 and above.** Indulge in the harmonious fusion of Okinawan Karate and Kobudo. Master the art of weapon techniques while acquiring invaluable defense strategies. These disciplines are inherently intertwined. Explore this synergy with our Free Trial offer. ### **Address** 342D King George's Ave, Singapore 208575 ### **Schedule** Saturdays 1115AM - 1245PM ### **Booking Information** * Please contact **98225900** to find out how to book this class. * The instructor will reach out to you once you've booked the class.

### Stillness by the Sea – Where Karma Meets the Tide *Stillness by the Sea* is a quiet, daily morning meditation held at dawn, where the rhythm of the ocean becomes a mirror for inner awareness. As the sun rises and the tides move, we sit together in silence, guided breath, and gentle reflection inspired by the **Bhagavad Gita’s understanding of karma** — not as philosophy, but as lived experience. This is a space to: * Slow down and return to the present moment * Observe karmic patterns without judgment * Release accumulated mental and emotional weight * Begin the day with clarity, responsibility, and inner balance There are no rituals and no expectations. Only a simple invitation to sit, listen, and realign — allowing the sea to carry away what no longer serves. Open to anyone seeking stillness, sincerity, and a conscious start to the day.

🗓️Midweek Power Workout ⏳60-minute session 🎟️ New Participant Benefit Elevate your midweek routine with our energizing full-body workout experience, designed to help you move better, feel stronger, and stay motivated. This dynamic 60-minute session is suitable for all fitness levels—from beginners to experienced participants—combining cardio, strength, and endurance training through engaging circuits and effective resistance exercises. Each workout is thoughtfully structured to build total-body strength, enhance stamina, and support lean muscle development. Beyond physical results, our sessions focus on confidence, consistency, and overall well-being. You’ll be welcomed into a supportive and inclusive training environment where you can exercise safely, progress at your own pace, and stay motivated throughout your fitness journey. 🎟️ New Participant Benefit First-time attendees receive a complimentary body composition analysis to establish a fitness baseline and support personalized goal-setting. “The only bad workout is the one you didn’t do.” 🕒 Schedule: Wednesdays, 7:15 PM – 8:15 PM 📍 Location: Aperia Mall, Open Plaza 🎒 What to Bring: Yoga mat, towel, water Whether your goal is strength, endurance, or maintaining an active lifestyle, our experienced team is committed to helping you achieve sustainable, long-term results. Join us and take the next step toward a healthier, stronger you. 💪 ⚠️ Disclaimer Participation in this event is voluntary. Attendees acknowledge that physical activity carries inherent risks and agree to take part at their own discretion. The organizers are not liable for any injuries or health-related incidents.

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.

Inspired by the successful events like "Pot Luck in the Park" and "Saturday Mornings @ East Market," this meetup promises a fun and engaging atmosphere where like-minded individuals can connect over a shared love for languages and cultures. Whether you're a language learner, ESL student, or simply passionate about exploring new cultures, this event is perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a diverse and welcoming community. Come join us for an enlightening afternoon of language, culture, food, of course, and connections! (Everyone will individually choose from the buffet and pay for their own meal, by weight.)

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

Join us on Wednesday nights at 7pm for two 25 minute quiet meditations, with one short walking meditation in between. There will be a brief and informal conversation afterward. Stay for as long as you like and feel free to bring or share whatever is on your mind. All Zen Center events are also available via Zoom at bit.ly/IndyZen.

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!