Exopolitics

Socrates Café meets twice a month. Though this may be considered a "philosophical" group, there are no rules as to what is discussed. Usually, the topics revolve around social concerns, morality, and the first principles of things. Prior to each meeting we vote online for the questions we will discuss. That way, we will have enough time to ruminate on them and have more in-depth conversations. If you RSVP to a meeting, you may post your question in the event comments section below. I'll send out a survey for voting a few days prior to the meetup. We discuss two questions each night. So you will get to cast two votes in the survey. When we meet, we break into smaller groups of five to seven to discuss the top two vote-getters. Each group discusses one question for around 45-50 minutes, and we then take a short break. After reconvening, each group moves on to its second question. Hope to see you there! -Brian

Come learn how money really works. We’ll cover how to grow it, protect it, get out of debt, and use smart retirement and infinite banking strategies to build long-term security.

Greetings from the capital! Every Saturday at 7:30 PM, people from all walks of life — students, diplomats, travelers, locals — gather to unwind and connect. [[Click this whatsapp groupchat link to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JFESzopY1OgJ5z4r3RINfL)] Our age range is mostly 20s to 30s. If you enjoy discussing culture, politics, travel, or just want to practice a new language, this group is for you. A perfect blend of diversity and dialogue, right in the heart of D.C.

Hello Everyone, Thank you so much for joining us for our **Valentine’s Mystery Social**! It was truly a pleasure to host such an intentional space for all of you to connect as "souls" rather than just titles and paychecks. We heard your feedback loud and clear: you all wanted more time to connect after the opening icebreakers! We have noted this and look forward to hosting several more of these sessions for our private clients throughout the year with even more space for deep discussion. ### **🔥 TODAY ONLY: Elite Match Alert** We have just added two profiles, a powerhouse Jack and Jill **brother and sister duo**—both exceptional catches: * **The Sports Agent (Male):** A high-achieving, family-oriented professional who embodies the values of our community and the legacy of his upbringing. * **The Powerhouse Attorney (Female):** A stunning attorney and active actress who is a true "Jack and Jill" legacy. She balances a high-stakes legal career with a passion for the arts. **Follow us on IG:** For our most up-to-date match alerts and event BTS, make sure you are following us on Instagram @helpmeetclub **Saturday Appointment Available:** We have **ONE** consultation opening available for this Saturday. This is first-come, first-served for anyone ready! **Consultation:** To celebrate these new additions, use code FRIENDS20 at checkout for an **[additional $55.55 off](https://thehelpmeetclub.com/join-our-database-of-singles-form/)**[ ](https://thehelpmeetclub.com/join-our-database-of-singles-form/)our current consult special. **This code is valid TODAY ONLY.** ### **Action Required: Selection Form** Please submit your final selections by the **end of today**. As a reminder, we only facilitate a "Double-Yes" match (where both parties select each other) or reach out if you have specifically marked that you are open to hearing from others. ### **Membership Updates** We are committed to the quality of our community. To that end, we have decided to make some adjustments to our membership structure: * **Database Services:** We will no longer allow women to join our database as a standalone service. * **The Reason:** It is undeniable that the women who complete our **Readiness Process** stand out and make exceptional partners. It is only fair that they are rewarded with exclusive access to our socials and curated community. On that note, if your database membership is currently expiring, please let us know and we will re-enroll you at 50% off your annual database membership fee.

We’ll sample the espresso at this Fairfax cafe next. There are some unique offerings on the menu, so let’s get together and compare notes. Enjoy your favorite drink or try something new. I love to start my weekends off this way. Come join us. (Please keep your RSVP updated if you know you won't be able to attend, so others who can join have the opportunity to. No discussions on politics, religion or potentially controversial topics. We're here to relax and have fun. Just be respectful and we'll be alright. Pay your own way, and enjoy!)

Venez apprécier l'ambiance chaleureuse d'une conversation en français autour d'un verre de vin et d'apéritifs. C'est ouvert à tous quelque soit votre niveau, que vous soyez intermédiaire/avancé ou bien que le Français soit votre langue maternelle. ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU WILL BE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD :) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.*** We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested. We have the discretion to decide entry. It is irresistible, to enjoy French convo with a glass of wine, appetizers and drinks. The Event is open to all levels of French language, from intermediate to native fluency. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speakers. It is not as such to learn a language. Beginners, if you want to learn a language, reach out to us ([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)). We have a school and will arrange you a class. ***AFTER THE HAPPY HOUR, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!***

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is significant for several reasons. ### What Makes It Special Even If You're Not Religious * The scale of the building is awe-inspiring. * The artwork and craftsmanship rival those found in famous European churches. * The chapels tell the story of immigrant communities that helped shape the United States. * It offers a rare combination of history, architecture, art, culture, and quiet contemplation in the heart of Washington, DC. Many visitors describe it as one of the most underrated attractions in DC because it combines the grandeur of a major monument with a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the city's busy museums and government buildings. * **The largest Catholic church in North America** and among the ten largest churches in the world. * **Home to more than 80 chapels and sacred images**, representing the diverse cultural and ethnic communities that make up the Catholic Church in the United States. * **Known for its breathtaking mosaics**, containing millions of pieces of colored glass and stone that cover walls, ceilings, and domes. * **A unique blend of Byzantine and Romanesque architecture**, making it visually distinct from the Gothic cathedrals many visitors are familiar with. * **Visited by multiple Popes**, including Pope John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI, and Pope Francis. * **A national shrine rather than a local parish church**, meaning it serves as a place of pilgrimage for Catholics from across the United States and around the world. * **Dedicated to Mary, the Mother of Jesus**, under the title "Immaculate Conception," who is the patroness of the United States. * **Features one of the world's largest mosaic domes**, creating a remarkable visual experience even for visitors with no religious background. ### Join us for a casual visit to the Basilica. **Cost:** Free **Time**: 12:15 pm **Who can attend:** Everyone is welcome, regardless of faith background. Please dress respectfully for a place of worship.H

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy,”** on findings, debates and trends in the use of psychedelic substances to treat trauma and other conditions, with Whitney Marris, instructor at the University of Buffalo’s School of Social Work, certified psychedelic-assisted therapy facilitator, and consultant to clinical trials. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-psychedelic-assisted-therapy](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-psychedelic-assisted-therapy) .] Psychedelics are rapidly moving from the margins into the mainstream, and questions abound as the sociocultural and legal landscapes surrounding them shift. President Trump’s recent executive order expanding access to psychedelic drugs for certain conditions and accelerating research on them has both heightened interest and added to confusion. Learn more about the so-called “Psychedelic Renaissance,” and get help separating the hope from the hype surrounding it, with Whitney Marris, a leading trainer and facilitator of psychedelic therapy who has used it to treat trauma survivors, military veterans, and people with cancer. She’ll present foundational information on what we know about how psychedelics work. You’ll learn how psychedelic-assisted therapy differs from “trip sitting” and about what we know about the effects of “microdosing” versus “macrodosing.” We’ll examine what has been demonstrated to be helpful versus harmful before, during, and after a dosing session intended to support significant, sustainable change. Marris also will discuss the historical and cultural context of the use of psychedelic medicines for healing, and she’ll describe the ethical challenges that arise as such practices move from counterculture to clinic. We’ll look at emerging and evolving findings in the field, as well as at the roles being played by various financial interests and ideologies in determining the direction of psychedelic-assisted therapy and research on its outcomes. Attendees will gain an awareness of the need for new professional standards and regulatory guardrails related to such work, and they’ll leave knowing key questions to ask potential providers of psychedelic-assisted therapy. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image by Canva.

Our picnic will be at Montrose Park (3099 R St NW, Washington, DC 20007). Please, bring your prepared dish, beverages, snacks or dessert; and enjoy your time with other amazing French speakers, speaking French. We will provide Plates, Cups, Eating Utensils, Napkins and an Ice Chest for drinks. All members+family (including children)+Significant others+Pets+friends are welcome! If you haven't decided yet on what you are going to bring, we would like to give you a tip. Otherwise, bring whatever you are comfortable with. This has worked in the past, so please help make it a fun, food & drink filled event by following the instructions below: 1. If your last name is A- H : something like meat, veggies, etc. 2. If your last name is I- O : something to drink (alcoholic or non). 3. If your last name is P- Z : something for the table (side, salad, dessert, etc). Food should be ready-made. ***You MUST bring a plate or a drink to participate.***

**MLK Library - Room 401D** 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.**

Let's get our 80s nerd on, BY THE POWER OF GREYSKULL!!!

With war breaking out, the gnomes of Brastlewark in Cheliax can no longer cling to their carefree ways. Self-proclaimed King Drum Thornfiddle is eager to ingratiate himself to Queen Abrogail, and so conscripts the city's magical and creative resources towards the war effort. A few gnomes have broken free, and they have brought evidence of the various works being created in Brastlewark. They're no fighters, though. It'll be up to the Pathfinders to get them safely across the border to Andoran and freedom. A Pathfinder Society Scenario designed for 1st- through 4th-level characters, playable in 4-5 hours. Written by Elizabeth V Nold **Scenario tags:** Hellfire Crisis

Higher Grounds – Arlington is part of a growing network of gatherings where we create space for thoughtful, authentic dialogue about what matters most. Whether we’re exploring the nature of happiness, the challenges and possibilities of midlife, spirituality, culture, capitalism, parenting, or the role of art and travel in a meaningful life, every conversation is shaped by the people in the room. There’s no set leader or rigid agenda—just a shared commitment to listen as much as we speak. We start with brief introductions focused on what makes you you (not your LinkedIn bio), then dive straight into whatever is on people’s minds. The direction of each meetup emerges organically, making every event unique. MANDATORY: PLEASE REVIEW OUR COMMUNITY GUIDELINES IN THE GROUP DESCRIPTION. Everyone is expected to engage in respectful conversations and listen deeply as well as share. We have a zero tolerance policy of sexual harassment and hate speech. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others in Arlington who are also seeking deeper conversations. Suggested Questions: Life Stages & Transitions * What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging? * When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists? * What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about? Suggested Questions: Identity After the Roles * Who are you when nobody needs anything from you? * What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed? * How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted? Suggested Questions: AI & Being Human * What human experiences will AI never truly understand? * If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do? * What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated? Suggested Questions: Belief & Meaning * What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space? * How has knowing someone who died changed how you live? * What do you believe now that would shock your younger self? Suggested Questions: The Modern Psyche * What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have? * Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire? * What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept? Suggested Questions: Work & Purpose * When did you stop believing that your job would complete you? * What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors? * How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years? Suggested Questions: Relationships & Connection * What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why? * When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best? * What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others? Suggested Questions: Time & Mortality * What are you running out of time to say or do? * How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite? * What will you regret not trying, even if you fail? Suggested Questions: Society & Culture * What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense? * Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing? * What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years? Suggested Questions: Personal Philosophy * What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way? * When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out? * What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

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?

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

TOPIC (TBD): Meeting Schedule: 1. 6:00 - Introduction, Meet New Members 2. 6:10 - Old Business 3. 6:20 - New Business 4. 6:30 - Pre-Shoot Briefing/Education 5. 7:15 - Break 6. 7:30 - Image Critique 7. 8:00 - Adjourn Pre-Shoot Brief/Education: NIK Collection 8 Image Critique: Previous Photoshoot Images (iPhone images and Christmas Cards). If anyone has images they would like critiqued, please provide them at the beginning of the meeting. Providing Images for Critique: For now, I will collect images at the beginning of the meeting on a USB memory stick. My computer has USB-C ports, so a USB-C memory stick or one with dual (USB-C / USB-A) ports will be needed. Images should follow these format rules: JPG - 80% quality or higher 132 dpi resolution 2048 pixels across the long edge Embedded colorspace - sRGB

Let’s meet and share discussion of the James Baldwin short story collection, Going to Meet The Man.

Join us on Monday 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.

Jimmy V's Grill & Pub in Grandview Heights. You are responsible for your own meal/drinks. We usually don't have any agenda other than eat, drink and talk. :) If the weather is nice we will be on the back patio, otherwise we are in the cigar room. This group has been meeting every Tuesday evening for over a decade. Many attendees do not RSVP on meetup. Please don't let the small number here discourage you. Anyone/everyone is welcome to come. We'd love to have you join us. COTA bus #5 comes to W. 5th and Wyandotte Rd. And it's a minute walk to the restaurant.

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.

A time to make signs, pack swag bags, and have fun together in anticipation for the Pride festivities the week after.