Epistemology

Are we facing a crisis of truthfulness? Given our unique and diverse experiences and perspectives, is it still possible to reach a collective understanding of what is “true” and to form a basis for how we determine truth? And how can we actively seek and recognize what is true, beyond just relying on conventional wisdom, tradition, superstition, or our own personal beliefs? Truth is an anchor to reality, rooting us in the midst of chaos and providing direction for a path forward. But while access to information has greatly increased, it seems to be increasingly difficult to determine facts from opinions or falsehood. Far beyond just being a problem in politics, it seems to extend into almost every part of our society and cultures. Could our ability to discern truth depend in part on certain spiritual qualities like humility and detachment complementing our senses, our mind, and intellectual training? What is the relationship of truth to justice? Are there tools that can help us seek and find the truth not only as individuals but collectively as a society? Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the truths that unite us all – as we discuss the spiritual perspective offered by the Bahá’í Teachings on the spiritual solutions to seeking the truth. Join us for a lively discussion as we explore how to apply spiritual principles of finding collective truth to benefit our lives and our communities. “*Truth has many aspects, but it remains always and forever one*.” – Bahá’í Teachings \*\*\* This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted.

This is our weekly training session. NOVA Jujutsu is a self-defense focused system incorporating Geri (Kicking), Atemi (Striking), Uke (Blocking), Tai Sabakai (Body Movement), Tai Hodoki (Escapes), Kansetsu Waza (Joint Locks), Nage Waza (Throwing), Shime Waza (Choking), Katame Waza (Grappling), Tantojutsu (Knife), Bojutsu (Bo), Kenjutsu (Sword), and Kata (Forms). Come on down to a class and see for yourself what this group has to offer. You will get a great workout! You will have an awesome learning experience! You will meet some good people! We look forward to meeting you. See you there. TAGS: japanese, martial arts, self-defense, jujutsu, jujitsu, juijitsu, bujutsu, defense, karate, koppo, kenjutsu, bojutsu, tantojutsu

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

Optional Questions: Life Stages & Transitions

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

Optional Questions: Identity After the Roles

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

Optional Questions: AI & Being Human

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

Optional Questions: Belief & Meaning

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

Optional Questions: The Modern Psyche

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

Optional Questions: Work & Purpose

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

Optional Questions: Relationships & Connection

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

Optional Questions: Time & Mortality

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

Optional Questions: Society & Culture

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

Optional Questions: Personal Philosophy

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

***For this event, we are opening a limited number of spots (about 15) to non-members who may be interested in getting to know our community while enjoying a relaxed social gathering.*** ***Must purchase your ticket on [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/neurodivergent-friendly-spring-rooftop-meetup-tickets-1989847052098) to be added to guest list.*** ***This event is free for Constellations members.*** Join our[ free singles database](https://internal-icicle-6c4.notion.site/337184d944c780458ef2c61404a85be0). Join us for stunning city views, comfortable indoor space, board games, light refreshments, and an opportunity for new connections. This is our annual Spring Rooftop Meetup hosted by Constellations in downtown Washington, D.C. \*\*\*[Constellations ](https://www.harringtonmatchmaking.com/constellations-membership)\*\*\**is a neurodivergent-affirming membership that supports adults in building friendships and romantic relationships. It is designed for those who want thoughtful pacing and guidance — without the timeline or cost of a full-service matchmaking package. Members receive access to a private member portal with coaching support, social events, and community spaces.* Most attendees will be neurodivergent adults with low support needs in their 20s, 30s, 40s, early 50s. Some people attend to make friends and expand their social circle, while many others are single and open to dating and meaningful connection. You can expect: • A welcoming, low-pressure atmosphere • Snacks, appetizers, and light refreshments • Beer and wine available for those who choose to drink • Board games and activity stations to help make conversation easier • Comfortable spaces to sit, talk, and connect Space is limited and advance registration is required. To learn more about[ ](https://www.harringtonmatchmaking.com/constellations-membership)**[Constellations](https://www.harringtonmatchmaking.com/constellations-membership)**, visit our **[website](https://www.harringtonmatchmaking.com/constellations-membership)**. [Contact us ](https://www.harringtonmatchmaking.com/contact) at [Harrington Matchmaking](https://www.harringtonmatchmaking.com) with any questions.

**Advance ticket sales have ended but plenty of additional tickets remain available at the door.** [Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“A Deep Dive into the Declaration of Independence,”** on the origins and impact of America’s founding document, with Denver Brunsman, chairman of George Washington University’s history department, lecturer at Mount Vernon, and noted scholar of early American history and the American Revolution. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-deep-dive-into-declaration](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-deep-dive-into-declaration) .] The celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary will take on much deeper meaning if you take time to fully understand and appreciate the document that declared our independence from England and gave rise to the American experiment. Learn essential lessons about the Declaration of Independence from Denver Brunsman, an incredibly engaging speaker who has built a big following among Profs and Pints fans in and around Washington D.C. Professor Brunsman will start by discussing the Declaration’s background, composition, and philosophical underpinnings. You’ll learn how by 1776 American colonists had resisted British policies for thirteen years and endured open warfare with Britain for more than a year. We’ll look at how this imperial crisis influenced the Declaration’s primary author, Thomas Jefferson, as well as the larger Declaration Committee and the Second Continental Congress. In recent years, scholars have focused particularly on the previously underappreciated grievance section of the Declaration. Rather than simply being an afterthought to the more famous preamble (“all men are created equal”), the grievances followed a logical order that carefully presented the case against King George III and the British Empire for a “candid world” to consider. Professor Brunsman will fill you in on how that list of grievances rallied Americans and other nations to the cause. A document both timeless and of its time, the Declaration quickly soared beyond its humble origins as a committee report to become synonymous with American independence and an inspiration for rebellion elsewhere. Dr. Brunsman will consider the place of the Declaration in American life, from the eighteenth century to today, and how the document helped shape much of American history while influencing “the course of human events” throughout the world. The talk will close with customary toasts from the American revolutionary era. Huzzah! Huzzah! Huzzah! (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: From an idealized Jean Leon Gerome Ferris painting of Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and John Adams drafting the Declaration of Independence.

**The Soul Remembers What the Mind Forgets with Sister Jenna** In honor of **Dadi Prakashmani**, whose life embodied deep spiritual awareness and the power of remembrance, this special evening invites us to look beyond the limits of the mind and reconnect with the truth of the soul. Through a heartfelt sharing of walking alongside Sister Gita during her journey with Alzheimer’s, we will gently explore what remains when memory begins to fade. While the mind may forget names, places, and moments… the soul continues to hold love, impressions, and a quiet knowing that cannot be erased. Held during **Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month**, this reflective gathering offers space to: * See beyond the fear of memory loss * Discover the deeper identity of the self as a soul * Find meaning, patience, and growth through caregiving * Experience the power of love that remains constant This is not just a talk, it is a moment to pause, reflect, and remember who we truly are. Even when the mind forgets… the soul remembers. Sun., June 7th, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm. Held at Brahma Kumaris, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl, Suite 200, 2nd Floor, Chantilly, VA. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/KwXdf](https://shorturl.at/KwXdf)

What's better than brunch? Brunch with the LGBTQ+ community, of course! Join the Dulles Triangles at 11:00 AM for a dazzling brunch at **[Amphora Diner](http://amphoragroup.com/amphoras-diner-deluxe/)**, located at **1151 Elden St, Herndon, VA 20170**. This is your chance to catch up with old pals, make some new ones, and bask in the glory of a Sunday well-brunched! Amphora’s menu is as diverse as our community, offering everything from omelets and pancakes to divine bakery treats. Seriously, their pastries are more irresistible than a shirtless Ryan Gosling holding a puppy! **RSVP Required!** Amphora needs a headcount beforehand, and adding seats at the last minute is like trying to squeeze into last year’s pride outfit—tricky! To ensure you get a seat at the brunch extravaganza, RSVP on Meetup or in the Dulles Triangles Facebook group by the day before. Those who RSVP get priority seating, and we promise not to judge if you show up in sequins. Remember to ask for Dulles Triangles when you arrive. Use the links below to RSVP and secure your spot faster than you can say "mimosas." This event is usually held on the first Sunday of each month, but check for updates because we like to keep things as flexible as our dance moves. Keep an eye on the current schedule so you don't miss out!

# What About Artificial Sweeteners? When: Sunday, June 7, 2026. 11AM, Doors open at 10:45 for coffee Where: Green Hedges School, 415 Windover Ave NW, Vienna, VA 22180 Margaretha Backers-Netherton, RN BSN, will review the history, uses, benefits and negative effects of these widely used chemicals. Please join us for Sunday Platform at Green Hedges School, Vienna, VA After the meeting, we plan to go out to lunch together at Vienna Thai restaurant. For those who cannot come in person, this is the zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85147568797?pwd=2TQNpZPubvub435R7H9cEaKWrTWgaS.1 **Margaretha Backers-Netherton, RN BSN** Falls Church, VA Margaretha is a board certified member of the National Society of Health Coaches. She holds degrees in Biology, Education and Nursing and has experience as an ER, Home Health and Wellness Nurse. She works with employees of various business and organizations to improve their health and presents programs at various communities and veg fests throughout the country. She has been a vegan for over 30 years and holds a Plant Based Nutrition Certification from Cornell, certified as a Food for Life Instructor with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, has a Master Fitness Certification from the Cooper Institute and has two daughters and a grandson. We will be collecting for **City Wildlife**. If anyone has gently used linens, towels or cloths the animals always need them. If anyone has furs they're ashamed to have, they are welcome to turn them in for the rescued animals to bed in. They're always in need of recycled newspapers also. Doors open at 10:45 for coffee. Come early get coffee!

Join us [every Sunday at Pedro Sauer Academy](https://www.pedrosaueracademy.com/martial-arts-class-schedule-herndon-va/) (PSA) in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia) for open training in [Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) (BJJ): **Research**, **Review**, and **Roll**! 🥇 This is a **student-driven session** designed to help you explore what matters most to your BJJ development. Whether you want to **research techniques, review material from the week**, or **roll with different partners**, this open format gives you the flexibility to focus on your own goals. An **instructor will be present** to answer questions, offer feedback, and help troubleshoot positions, but the pace and flow of the session are entirely up to you. You can **drill, experiment**, or **get in some live rounds** in a relaxed and supportive environment. Open training is ideal for students who want to **refine their technique, test new ideas, and build confidence** through *consistent practice*. All skill levels are welcome -- come train, learn, and grow with the **[Northern Virginia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community](https://www.meetup.com/northern-virginia-martial-arts-group/)**! **Note:** We are located in **Suite #130**. This event is **free of charge**. The [PSA open mat schedule](https://nvma.group/va/herndon/pedro-sauer-academy/bjj-open-mat-schedule/) has been cross-posted on the NVMA Group website as well.

🔥 **The Summer Cookout Cook Off is ON!** 🔥 Get ready to fire up your taste buds, Fairfax! On **Sunday, June 7, 2026 from 1-5 PM**, Unity of Fairfax is hosting its very first **Summer Cookout Cook Off,** and YOU are the judge. 🍔 **FOOD. 🎉 GAMES. 👯 NEIGHBORS.** Here's the deal: outstanding local caterers are bringing their A-game and battling it out for the coveted **People's Choice Award**. You'll sample their best, cast your vote, and crown a champion. Taste something incredible? Buy a full size and support the business right there on the spot. And don't worry about the kiddos, there'll be hot dogs and hamburgers for the little ones, plus games and good times for the whole family. It's the perfect way to kick off summer with your neighbors. Whether you come hungry, come competitive, or come just to soak up the summer vibes, you're going to leave full, happy, and already planning next year's visit. 🎟️ **Grab your tickets here:** [https://unityoffairfax.onechurchsoftware.com/public/forms/41](https://unityoffairfax.onechurchsoftware.com/public/forms/41) ℹ️ **Learn more:** [https://unityoffairfax.org/cookout](https://unityoffairfax.org/cookout) **FAQ** ❓ **Q: Do I need a ticket to attend?** A: Yes — all attendees need a ticket or RSVP so we can give our food vendors an accurate headcount and they can prepare accordingly. **Pro tip: buy online and save $2 per ticket!** **Q: Are there vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options?** A: Yes, there will be some vegetarian and vegan options available. **Q: Can I bring my pet?** A: We love your furry friends, but please leave them at home for this one.

Jujutsu

We will meet in the Janney Parlor.

Have you been thinking about trying self-defense training, but do not want a loud, aggressive, or overly competitive environment? This free intro class is a simple way to get started. Maryland Systema offers practical self-defense training for adults in Rockville with a focus on movement, awareness, breathing, posture, and calm under pressure. This class is designed for beginners and first-timers who want real-world self-defense training in a welcoming setting. You do not need experience. You do not need to be in top shape. You do not need a martial arts background. You just need to show up ready to learn. This is not a sport-based class built around winning points, memorizing routines, or trying to look impressive. It is a more practical approach to adult self-defense training that helps you stay balanced, aware, and functional when things feel uncertain. If you have been searching for self-defense classes in Rockville, beginner self-defense near you, or practical self-defense training for adults, this class is a good place to start. **What you will work on** * Breathing and staying calm under pressure * Movement that improves balance and mobility * Awareness and posture * Simple partner drills * Practical self-defense training for beginners **Who this class is for** * Adults new to self-defense training * Beginners looking for a low-pressure class * People who want practical self-defense instead of sport martial arts * Adults in Takoma Park, Silver Spring, Rockville, and nearby areas looking for realistic self-defense classes **What to wear** Please wear comfortable workout clothes. No uniform is required. **Why start with this class** This free intro class gives you a chance to experience the training, meet the group, and see whether Maryland Systema is the right fit for you before joining regular weekly classes. **RSVP** Reserve your spot and come try a beginner-friendly self-defense class in Rockville.

…Transform Our Lives, Work, and World (2024) by Jamie Metzl, 432 pages [Genetics] • Paperback • Hardcover • Kindle • Audiobook • Library: [https://fcplcat.fairfaxcounty.gov/search/title.aspx?ctx=1.1033.0.0.1&pos=1&cn=615082](https://fcplcat.fairfaxcounty.gov/search/title.aspx?ctx=1.1033.0.0.1&pos=1&cn=615082) Check the How To Find Us section for Zoom Link **(Remember, the Zoom Link is different each month, do not bookmark)** ### Review “In Superconvergence, Jamie Metzl takes readers on a magical journey through the science of the intersecting genetics, biotech, and AI revolutions, deeply explores the implications, and challenges us to think creatively and proactively about what comes next. Very few books are absolute must-reads. This is one.”―Siddhartha Mukherjee, assistant professor of medicine at Columbia University and author of The Gene: An Intimate History "During the 25 years I have known Jamie Metzl, he has always been ahead of the curve. There is no one better to help us understand and prepare for the fast-approaching technological revolutions. Superconvergence is brilliant. I can't recommend it more strongly."―Sanjay Gupta MD, bestseller author, neurosurgeon, and Emmy-award winning chief medical correspondent (CNN) "Our world is defined by our science and technology—whether we like it or not. The question now is not whether to use these powers, but how best to use them. In Superconvergence, Jamie Metzl takes us on a journey through the new capabilities that are radically transforming ecosystems inside us and around us, challenging each of us to get personally involved with building the future we want."―Beth Shapiro, University of California Santa Cruz evolutionary biologist and author of Life as We Made It: How 50,000 Years of Human Innovation Refined―and Redefined―Nature "In a fine counter-blast to the pessimism of today, Jamie Metzl lays out just how spectacular the future of humanity and planet can be if we harness innovation responsibly and imaginatively to create what he calls the 'spiral of progress.'"―Matt Ridley, author of How Innovation Works, and co-author of Viral: The search for the Origin of Covid-19 “A page-turning journey through space and time that shows us how our lives will be changed by imminent technological advances we once only dreamed of.”―David Sinclair, Professor of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, and author of Lifespan: Why We Age―and Why We Don't Have To “The superconvergence of the genetics, biotechnology, and AI revolutions provides spectacular opportunities for building a better world. It also represents an almost limitless investment opportunity. We were excited to collaborate with Jamie Metzl, one of the world's great experts on how these aspirations can best be realized, including in capital markets. Superconvergence is a master class for imagining, investing in, and building a future we'd like to inhabit."―Jeremy Schwartz, Global Chief Investment Officer, WisdomTree “A clear examination of a transitional moment in the story of life on Earth…. Metzl capably describes recent developments in genetics and biotech and looks at how AI is providing an analytical engine of unprecedented power…. An important book in which the author sets out a path for the future based on his experience and expertise.”―Kirkus “Erudite, optimistic, and timely.”―Science Magazine "[In Superconvergence] Mr. Metzl has identified an important truth: that the convergence of new technologies is galvanizing us to reimagine how to meet urgent challenges in medicine and the environment. It’s a compelling opportunity—provided we manage to sidestep self-induced catastrophes along the way."―The Wall Street Journal ### About the Author Jamie Metzl is a leading technology and healthcare futurist and the founder and chair of OneShared.World. He is the author of Hacking Darwin: Genetic Engineering and the Future of Humanity and four other books and was a member of the World Health Organization expert advisory committee on human genome editing. Jamie previously served in the U.S. National Security Council, State Department, and Senate Foreign Relations Committee and with the United Nations in Cambodia. His work has been featured by most major media organizations around the world, including 60 Minutes, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Fox, CNN, ABC, NBC, CBS, the Times of London, Le Monde, and Paris Match, and his podcast interviews with Joe Rogan, Lex Fridman, and others have reached tens of millions of listeners. He lives in New York City. Visit Jamiemetzl.com.

This is our weekly training session. NOVA Jujutsu is a self-defense focused system incorporating Geri (Kicking), Atemi (Striking), Uke (Blocking), Tai Sabakai (Body Movement), Tai Hodoki (Escapes), Kansetsu Waza (Joint Locks), Nage Waza (Throwing), Shime Waza (Choking), Katame Waza (Grappling), Tantojutsu (Knife), Bojutsu (Bo), Kenjutsu (Sword), and Kata (Forms). Come on down to a class and see for yourself what this group has to offer. You will get a great workout! You will have an awesome learning experience! You will meet some good people! We look forward to meeting you. See you there. TAGS: japanese, martial arts, self-defense, jujutsu, jujitsu, juijitsu, bujutsu, defense, karate, koppo, kenjutsu, bojutsu, tantojutsu

**NoVES Philosophy Discussion Series: Right and Wrong** To restart NoVES' Philosophy Discussion Series we thought we would choose a topic that is fundamental to philosophy, determining right from wrong. This discussion will look at the thinking that determines right and wrong actions and the values and assumptions underlying these decisions.

Get checked your Bucket List by joining this eastern route of USA. Start your tour in the capital Washington DC and end in New York City while exploring the upstate New York by visiting Watkins Glen, Niagara Falls and many more highlights on this 8 days sightseeing tour of the lifetime. Highlights Visited Places: * Washington, D.C. * Watkins Glen * Niagara Falls * New York City Travel Experience: * City sightseeing * Local cuisine * Parks * Waterfall Tour Start WASHINGTON, D.C. Tour End NEW YORK CITY Destination USA Itinerary Day01 ARRIVAL - RIVER CRUISE & GUIDED GEORGETOWN WALKING TOUR Day02 WASHINGTON DC WITH MOUNT VERNON & OLD ALEXANDRIA Day03 WASHINGTON, D.C. – NEW YORK Day04 NYC - NIAGARA FALLS Day05 NIAGARA FALLS - NYC Day06 NYC: HARLEM, BRONX, QUEENS, BROOKLYN & CONEY ISLAND Day07 NEW YORK CITY SIGHTSEEING Day08 DEPART NEW YORK CITY Price: $3290 (Double Occupancy) $3990 (Single Occupancy) Inclusions Price Includes * 7 nights hotel stay * Breakfasts at hotel * All transportation by road (Bus / Mini Van) * Guided day tours * Activities as per the itinerary Price Excludes * Flights * Airport transfers * Meals * Personal Expenses * Optional activities * Travel insurance / Visa * Tips \*\*\* For detailed itinerary & to reserve your seat, follow the link: [https://www.bucketlistgrouptravel.com/tour/usa-8-day-eastern-highlights-washington-dc-new-york-niagara-falls/](https://www.bucketlistgrouptravel.com/tour/usa-8-day-eastern-highlights-washington-dc-new-york-niagara-falls/) Questions? Text / Call / Whatsapp: 2023787696

Join us for another session of our study group as we cover the book Build a Reasoning Model (from Scatch). In this session, we will try to cover Chapter 1 titled "Understanding Reasoning Models", which defines what a Reasoning Model is and Chapter 2, on "Generating Text with an LLM". This isn't just a lecture! Come ready to ask questions, share insights, and code along. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, this is the perfect opportunity to continue to learn together. If you plan to work with the code on your own laptop during the session, try and download the code from it's GitHub repository at https://github.com/rasbt/reasoning-from-scratch ahead of time.