Global Citizenship

We will cover the following topics * Tech as a tool of geopolitical power * Relations with the U.S., China, and Global South * Export controls and tech diplomacy * Balancing openness with strategic protection I am looking forward to discussing with you this critical topic, You will find below links to articles that I suggest as pre-reads for our chat. Reading one article is enough, reading them all is a plus. Also, feel free to suggest what you think might be relevant for the discussion via DM. 1. [https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/in-depth-research-reports/report/digital-sovereignty-europes-declaration-of-independence/?utm_source=chatgpt.com](https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/in-depth-research-reports/report/digital-sovereignty-europes-declaration-of-independence/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 2. [https://www.noemamag.com/reclaiming-europes-digital-sovereignty/](https://www.noemamag.com/reclaiming-europes-digital-sovereignty/) 3. [https://ip-quarterly.com/en/dominance-and-sovereignty-geopolitics-transatlantic-tech-stack?utm_source=chatgpt.com](https://ip-quarterly.com/en/dominance-and-sovereignty-geopolitics-transatlantic-tech-stack?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 4. [https://ecfr.eu/article/trumps-ai-thaw-how-europe-and-the-gulf-can-protect-against-american-and-chinese-tech-pressure/?utm_source=chatgpt.com](https://ecfr.eu/article/trumps-ai-thaw-how-europe-and-the-gulf-can-protect-against-american-and-chinese-tech-pressure/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 5. [https://www.webpronews.com/data-sovereignty-key-to-protection-amid-geopolitical-tensions/?utm_source=chatgpt.com](https://www.webpronews.com/data-sovereignty-key-to-protection-amid-geopolitical-tensions/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) I am considering changing the location, to a more private café in Place Jordan. If you have an issue with this, please let me know. Cheers, Carolina

If you have a ball, please bring it... Let's gather at the Parc du Cinquantenaire close to the Tour de Tournai (https://goo.gl/maps/RsxFtTJydq92) and organize a *low-level* football match on the grass. Unless it rains badly as we're about to play, the game is on. Players of any age, weight, sex and size are allowed. Come as you are, at any time after 4pm. IMPORTANT REMINDER -- As Shitty Players, we don't bite or growl when someone misses the ball. We don't do penalties or yellow cards because we're so gentle we don't need them. We vaguely know of the existence of other rules like off-side but we'd rather ignore them than argue about them. We may or may not keep track of the score: this is a game where everyone wins. To help build the Team, come with 2 t-shirts white and black (or similar colors: light grey and dark blue etc). Beer session will follow on the grass, for those who survive till the end. You can also join the Facebook group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/176606662846112/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/a/b/3/600_460870931.jpeg

_IMPORTANT: To RSVP you will also need to register as a member [here.](https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership)_ Join Sunday Vacations for a cozy Saturday brunch at **Aksum Coffee House**, one of Brussels’ most beautiful cafés, where rich Ethiopian coffee, fresh Moroccan crêpes, and vibrant international vibes meet in perfect harmony. This is more than just brunch, it’s a relaxed way to start your weekend, meet new people, and enjoy a soulful spot full of stories and flavors. ### 📍 Where? **Aksum Coffee House – Galeries Sainte Hubert (Just a few steps from Grand Place) ### 🕚 When? **Saturday at 11:30 AM** Come hungry, curious, and ready to mingle! ### 🍽️ What’s on the menu? ☕ Fresh-roasted Ethiopian coffee 🥞 Moroccan-style crêpes & artisan pastries 🥚 Tasty brunch dishes (vegetarian options too) 🧾 Everyone pays their own order at the counter. ### 👋 Who’s joining? Expect a mix of international professionals, friendly locals, and Sunday Vacations regulars. Solo? New in town? Come anyway, this is the perfect place to connect. --- 🧡 **Limited spots** – RSVP early to secure your place at the table. By joining this event, you agree to the Sunday Vacations [Terms & Conditions](https://www.sundayvacations.com/terms), [Privacy Policy](https://www.sundayvacations.com/privacy) & [Code of Conduct](https://www.sundayvacations.com/code)

**MONT DES ARTS PARTY ✩ Catch Me I M single 💘 VALENTINE’S PARTY • at Plein Publiek Bxl • SAT 14/02 ✩** 💘 VALENTINE’S DAY 2026 – BRUSSELS’ HOTTEST PARTY 💘 Les Belges Jeunesses 🇧🇪 x Plein Publiek Bxl ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ \>\>\> ✩ Catch Me I M single • Mont des Arts PARTY ✩ \>\>\> PRIORITY PASS : SKIP THE LINE / VENTE FLASH https://pleinpubliek\.stager\.co/shop/brussels/events/111602117 \>\>\> FACEBOOK / https://fb\.me/e/9RTPcXShp ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ Single, taken or just here to dance? This Valentine’s Day, love meets nightlife at the biggest festive event in Brussels! 📍 Mont des Arts 🔥 Les Belges Jeunesses x Plein Publiek BXL An iconic venue, an insane vibe, a top line-up until sunrise at the Palais de la Dynastie. Come with your crew, your crush… or alone — you might not leave that way 😉 Love is optional. Dancing is mandatory. 💥 Mont des Arts Party – Valentine’s Edition 2026 Come Dance – Mingle With Hundreds - Join us - Bring Friends- Dress to Impress- Arrive Early- Spread The Word – Invite Friends-Everyone is Welcome ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ Info’s → Saturday 14th of February 2026 de 23h00 à 4h00 → Pleine Publiek, Mont des Arts, 1000 Bruxelles & Winter Terrace → Easy access by public transport, bike! → Management reserves the right of admission → Minimum age: 21+ Line Up : G-Froy & Madstone > BACK TO 2000's - 2010's -2020's ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ LET’S PARTY 💃🕺 Plein Publiek BXL \~ Palais de la Dynastie Mont des Arts (Kunstberg) 5, 1000 Brussels Arts (Kunstberg) 5, 1000 Brussels

We will be walking through the forest for a little about 1 1/2 hours, silently, just noticing the world around us and inside us. The idea is to experience the magic of a different type of walking, The invitation is to slow down and notice what is going on inside you and around you. Very often people experience a closer connection with nature and with self, with sometimes surprising insights. *Please make sure you are fit enough to go the 4.5 km distance. We will be walking slowly, but we will not take any breaks.* We will be meeting at the Hermann Debroux Metro at **14h**. (Exit straight ahead after leaving the platform--on the Loxam side). If you RSVP as coming, please be on time. We will be starting our walk from there 5 min. after the hour sharp. There is the renovated Maison de Prieur at the exit of the forest where we could gather for a drink or a meal after our walk, depending on what you feel like. Looking forward to an inward adventure? Come and join us on **Saturday, February 14, at 14h** My phone number is 0472 92 11 76, in case you need to communicate with me.

**💘 Soirée Spéciale Saint\-Valentin \| Coeur à Coeur 💘 Cactus Club \| Soirée Rencontres En Live XXL** 💘 Soirée Spéciale Saint-Valentin – Cœur à Cœur 💘 La plus grande soirée rencontres en live débarque au Cactus Club ! 👉 Facebook > [https://fb.me/e/788Udn2gY](https://fb.me/e/788Udn2gY) 🎟️ PRÉVENTES > [https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/15092](https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/15092) *** 🎉 Cœur à Cœur (30+) au Cactus Club – Notre QG pour cette soirée exceptionnelle 🎉 📅 Samedi 14 février 🕒 À partir de 22h30 📍 Cactus Club – Auderghem ✨ Soirée 30\+ \| Spéciale Saint\-Valentin 💃 Thème : Flashdance – 80’s, 90’s & 2000’s 🕺 *** Pour cette soirée exceptionnelle, le meilleur endroit pour se rencontrer et faire la fête, c’est notre QG : le Cactus Club 🌵 Cœur à Cœur, la plus grande soirée rencontres en live, vous donne rendez-vous pour une nuit placée sous le signe de la fête, de la séduction et du partage ❤️ 🎧 Aux platines : Philou, le seul, l’unique 👉 6 heures non-stop des meilleurs tubes Disco, 80’s, 90’s et 2000’s 🌹 Attention spéciale Saint-Valentin 👉 Chaque femme arrivant avant 1h se verra remettre une rose à l’entrée 💝 *** 👉 Facebook > https://fb.me/e/788Udn2gY 🎟️ PRÉVENTES > https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/15092 💥 5€ / 10€ ✔️ Garanty Pass ✔️ Skip the Line 👉 Évite la file & garantis ton accès *** 🎂 PACKS VIP & ANNIVERSAIRE Vous fêtez un anniversaire, un EVG / EVJF, ou une soirée entre collègues ? Envie de privatiser une table ou un espace ? 📞 Réservations VIP (table privatisée, bouteille, zone exclusive) 📲 +32 477 60 61 31 *** ✨ Dress Code : Chic 🚗 Parking gratuit en face 🔥 Ambiance garantie 💫 Que la fête continue… et plus si affinité *** 🔗 Suivez-nous 📱 Instagram : @coeuracoeur.be 🌐 www.coeuracoeur.be *** 📍 Cactus Club - Boulevard du Souverain 147 à 1160 Auderghem

Dear Folks, Valentine’s Day without a date? No problem. Let’s celebrate **self-love** with Ramen 🍜💘 Talk about life, meet new friends sounds pretty **Ramen-tic** to us 😉 **Contribution to Our Events:** Starting this year, we kindly ask participants to contribute in one of the following ways: **€5** per event, or **€40** annual membership fee If you feel like supporting us beyond this, to help people who can’t afford it, you are very welcome to do so 💛 If the contribution is a concern for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly 😉 * These contributions will help us: Cover the annual Meetup platform fee Encourage everyone to respect RSVPs (We experienced a high number of no-shows at several events last year, which made organization more difficult.) **We will donate 10% collected fees to support Queer oriented organisations in the end of the year.** *Yifei Yang BE 1236 3234 512 492* *Communication: your name+ event name/membership* Thank you very much for your understanding and cooperation. **Cheers!** 🍻 Yifei

# 🏐 Volleyball Meetup – New Time, New Place! ### 📌 Important: Indoor Shoes Required * You **must wear indoor sports shoes** (not used outside). * Preferably **non-marking soles** (not black unless true indoor shoes). * Without proper shoes, the sportshall staff may not allow you to play. *** ### 🕒 Schedule * **10:45** → Arrive & get ready * **11:00 – 11:30** → Warm-up & small training * **11:30 – 13:00** → Friendly matches (3 teams, rotating) 👉 Please arrive **15 minutes early** so we can start warming up on time. *** ### ✅ RSVP Rules * Keep your RSVP **up to date**, even if you’re on the waiting list. * If you can’t make it, **cancel as soon as possible** (comment or message an organizer). * ❌ Two no-shows or last-minute cancellations (same day of the event) WITHOUT COMMENT OR PM = **4-week ban**. *** ### ⚡ Matches Format * Max **18 players** → Split into **3 teams of 6**. * Games to **15 points (rally point system)**. * Opponents rotate after each set. *If the waiting list is long, we may book a second field (depending on availability and balance of players).* *** ### 💰 Fee * **€2 per person** (covers field booking, Meetup fee, balls & equipment). *** ### 👥 Guests * Guests are welcome but must **register & RSVP** themselves. *** ### 📍 Meeting Point * Directly at the **sport hall**. * Bring an extra volleyball if you have one! *** ✨ Let’s play, have fun, and respect each other! See you on the court! 🏐

Welcome to our weekly event in the upstairs room of The Sister Café, rue Chair et Pain 3, one block from the Grand Place. Please get there early enough to order your drink at the bar first. Thank you! After introductions we will collect questions from the group participants, choose one by voting then discuss it for an hour. Then most of us stay for drinks and bizarre conversations. Past questions have been wide and not confined to academic philosophy: What is a genuine friend? Is social media turning us into emotional zombies? Do we lose some of the experience of things by defining them? Are we driven by sex? Is loneliness a personal failure? Is morality relative? **Crucially, be kind and respectful and generous** in your disagreements; remember how much you personally enjoy someone else proving you wrong before celebrating your cutting counterexamples.

**Cinema Flagey : La grazia** 15/02 @ 14h00 La grazia. 2025. Italy. Written and directed by Paolo Sorrentino. With Toni Servillo, Anna Ferzetti. DCP courtesy MUBI. In Italian; English subtitles. 131 min. Perhaps the most fantastical plotline for a film this year would be “a political drama centered on thoughtful contemplation and ethical decision-making.” Oscar-winner Paolo Sorrentino (The Great Beauty, 2013) crafts a captivating contemporary tale about a fictional Italian president on the cusp of retirement, and several decisions that will shape his legacy. Brilliantly portrayed by Toni Servillo (winner of the Volpi Cup for Best Actor at this year’s Venice Film Festival), this is a leader capable of restraint in a world that is pulling him to extremes. With a vibrant score, and Sorrentino’s signature lush urban visuals, La grazia seeks that rarest of qualities in today’s world: grace. [Cinema RITCS](https://www.cinemaritcs.be/february-2026/) [Museum of Modern Art](https://www.moma.org/calendar/events/10981) **For Dreamers, Coffee shots, Orezza, eau de Saint-Georges !**

For more informations about all my classes, events, workshops and retreats https://www.thehappybody.be/contact \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🇬🇧 This event is also open to English speakers – explanations will be given in both French and English \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📅 Date : 15 Fevrier 2025 @ 11.00 📍 Départ : Arrêt Bus Engeland 📍 Arrivée : Metro Erasme 🚶‍♂️ Distance : ± 10 km ⏰ Durée : environ 2-3h (marche + Qigong) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📲 Rejoignez aussi notre groupe WhatsApp pour rester informé des prochaines balades et échanges : 👉 Lien WhatsApp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/Itvnex4pum66nEhoYln1IT?mode=ems_copy_c *** ### **🌱 Description** Rejoignez-nous pour la Quatrième étape de notre grand cycle « Les 12 Balades Qigong – Promenade Verte de Bruxelles ». Chaque mois, nous parcourons un tronçon de la Promenade Verte en mêlant marche douce et pratique de Qigong en pleine nature. Cette balade vous emmène à la découverte de la region entre le **Geleytsbeek** et le **Vogelzangbeek**, la balade change d’ambiance. On suit l’eau, discrète mais omniprésente, entre zones plus sauvages et passages ouverts. Le chemin invite à ralentir, observer, respirer. Une marche fluide, idéale pour sentir le lien entre mouvement, nature et calme intérieur. Au fil du parcours, nous ferons des pauses pour pratiquer des mouvements simples de Qigong, accessibles à tous, afin de : * harmoniser la respiration, * libérer les tensions accumulées, * s’ancrer profondément dans la nature environnante. *** ### **🎒 Infos pratiques** * Activité ouverte à tous niveaux, aucune expérience en Qigong requise. * Vêtements confortables et adaptés à la météo. * Chaussures de marche conseillées (terrain parfois humide). * Apporter une gourde d’eau. *** ### **💶 Participation** 👉 Contribution suggérée : 10 € (sur place) pour la session de QiGong *** ### **🔗 Réservations** 📲 Inscription obligatoire via Meetup pour garantir une bonne organisation. Nombre de places limitées afin de garder un cadre convivial et respectueux. *** ✨ Venez découvrir Bruxelles autrement, en reliant marche, respiration et énergie du corps.

Dear Folks!! ✨ **Our road trip is coming!** 🚗🌿 We’re planning a relaxed day trip to explore one of the towns often described as **the most beautiful in Belgium** — a perfect little escape into charm, nature, and good company. **Trip overview** * Total duration: around **10 hours** * Driving time: approximately **3.5 hours in total** * Group size: **small and cozy** — limited to **6 people** (my van has 7 seats) * If you prefer to drive your own car, you’re very welcome to join us as well * Meeting point: **Tournay-Solvaypark Entrance (Boitsfort Train Station)** 💶 **Contribution:** **€20 per person**, which covers fuel, as well as snacks and drinks along the way. **Kindly complete your registration before signing up. Thank you.** Yifei Yang BE12363234512492 Communication: your name+ event/membership If you enjoy road trips, beautiful scenery, and meaningful conversations, this will be a lovely day to share together. **P.S. We will leave together at 9h15, please be on time.** I'm looking forward to seeing you guys! Cheers 🍻 Yifei

Embark on a breathtaking 10km loop hike through the Hoëgne Valley in the Belgian Ardennes. This trail, known for its serene Hoëgne river, rustic wooden bridges, and verdant forests, caters to all skill levels. Enjoy the beauty of modest waterfalls and tranquil streams, perfect for both avid hikers and those seeking a peaceful nature retreat. **Transportation to Hike:** - **SNCB Train:** Departure at 08:01 from BRU.-CENTRAAL and 08:26 from LEUVEN, arriving at VERVIERS-CENTRAL at 09:22. - **TEC Bus:** Departure at 09:40 from Verviers Central to Sart-Les-Spa Toquez. **Return Journey:** - **TEC Bus:** Departure at 15:59 from Sart-Les-Spa Toquez to Verviers Central. - **SNCB Train:** Departure at 16:38 from VERVIERS-CENTRAL, arriving at LEUVEN at 17:30 and BRU.-CENTRAAL at 17:55. **Lunch Details:** (Group option) Around 13:30 at Le Chalet du Pont de Belleheid. Menu includes Grillade, Fondue fromage Valaisanne, accompaniments, and coffee.. Join us for a day of adventure and camaraderie, tailored to your hiking preferences!

**PLEASE READ THE ATTENDANCE POLICY (below) IF IT'S YOUR FIRST TIME** **SUNDAY COFFEE & JAPANESE CONVERSATION** 日曜日のコーヒー＆日本語会話 Our "Japanese/English Conversation Exchange" offers you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Japanese culture and language, all while helping native Japanese members to learn their target language. 私たちの「日本語/英語会話交流」は、日本の文化と言語の世界に没頭しながら、ネイティブの日本人メンバーが英語、フランス語、またはオランダ語を学ぶのを手助けするユニークな機会を提供します。 **Date: /** 日付：**(almost) every Sunday** **Time: /** 時間：**from 4.00 pm to 6.00 pm** **Location: /** 場所：**Cafe Caberdouche - Place de la Liberté 8, 1000 Bruxelles** **Venue Note: /** 会場の注意：**The manager of the cafe kindly accepted us to book a table on a regular basis. To thank him for his kindness, please order AT LEAST ONE DRINK**. カフェのマネージャーが親切にも私たちに定期的にテーブルを予約することを承諾してくださいました。その親切に感謝の意を示すために、少なくとも1杯のドリンクを注文してください。 **Location Assistance: /** 場所の案内：**If you can't find us, ask one of the waiters. They know where we are :) You can also send us a message.** 私たちを見つけられない場合は、ウェイターの一人に尋ねてください。彼らは私たちがどこにいるか知っています :) メッセージも送っていただけます。 **Event Agenda: /** イベントのアジェンダ： * **4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: JAPANESE CONVERSATION** \- Join us for the Japanese conversation and cultural exploration\. Beginners are welcome // 日本語会話 \- 最初の30分は日本語の会話と文化探求に充てられています。初心者も聞くだけでも歓迎です。30分後に参加しても構いません。多言語交換 \- ベルギーの多様性を体験し、ネイティブの日本人メンバーが英語、フランス語、またはオランダ語を学びたいと熱心に待っています。さまざまな言語で異文化交流の会話に参加しましょう。私たちの日本の友人にベルギーの文化、伝統、生活を紹介しましょう。 * **6:00 PM: EVENT CONCLUSION** \- Please respect the event's start and end times to maximize your language exchange opportunities\. Your participation and enthusiasm are appreciated\! イベントの終了 \- イベントの開始時間と終了時間を尊重して、言語交換の機会を最大限に活用してください。参加と熱意に感謝します！ **Attendance Policy: --->** 以下の日本語 * We're excited to have you join our events and appreciate your commitment to learning and growing together. To ensure a productive and enjoyable experience for all participants, please take note of our attendance policy: 1. **Punctuality:** Please arrive on time for scheduled events. Late arrivals can disrupt the flow of the event and may miss important information. 2. **Language Commitment:** If you sign up for language-specific sessions, such as Japanese conversation or language exchange, we kindly request your commitment to actively participate in that language for the designated duration. 3. **Respect:** Treat fellow participants, organizers, and cafe staff with respect and courtesy. Harassment or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated. 4. **Removal Policy:** A participant who is not respectful towards other members will be removed from the group and blocked, with no warning. This point is not negotiable. 5. **Cancellation:** If you are unable to attend an event you've registered for, please let us know as soon as possible. This helps us plan accordingly and allows others to take your place if there's a waitlist. 6. **No-Show Policy:** Three no-shows (failing to attend without prior notice) may result in restrictions on event registration to ensure fairness to other participants. By attending our events, you agree to adhere to these guidelines. We aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone can learn and connect. Thank you for being part of our community! **出席ポリシー：** 私たちは、イベントに参加していただけることを楽しみにしており、皆さんが一緒に学び成長することに取り組んでいただけることを感謝しています。すべての参加者が生産的で楽しい経験をするために、出席ポリシーにご留意ください： 1. 時間厳守：予定されたイベントには時間通りにお越しください。遅刻はイベントの流れを乱し、重要な情報を見逃す可能性があります。日本語のみのセッションは午後4時、全言語のセッションは午後4時30分開始です。 2. 言語へのコミットメント：日本語会話や言語交換など、特定の言語のセッションに登録された場合は、その言語での積極的な参加をお願いします。 3. 尊重：他の参加者、主催者、カフェのスタッフには敬意と礼儀をもって接してください。嫌がらせや迷惑行為は許容されません。 4. 退場ポリシー：他のメンバーに対して敬意を持たない参加者は、警告なしにグループから削除され、ブロックされます。このポイントは交渉の余地がありません。 5. キャンセル：登録したイベントに参加できない場合は、できるだけ早くお知らせください。これにより、他の人があなたの代わりを取ることができます。 6. ノーショーポリシー：事前の通知なしに3回のノーショー（欠席）がある場合は、他の参加者に公平になるようイベントの登録に制限がかかる場合があります。 私たちのイベントに参加することで、これらのガイドラインに従うことに同意するものとします。私たちはみなさんが学び、つながることができるように歓迎される包括的な環境を作り出すことを目指しています。コミュニティの一部としてご参加いただき、ありがとうございます！ **Note: Please stay tuned to our event page for updates and schedule changes. We can't wait to see you there and exchange languages, cultures, and stories!** 備考：更新やスケジュールの変更については、イベントページをご覧ください。そこで皆さんにお会いして、言語や文化、物語を交換できるのを楽しみにしています！

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!

Attend a free seminar on how to have successful and lasting relationships. At this seminar you will learn: How to spot and handle negative and toxic relationships. How to get through the "rough patches" in a relationship. How to choose the right people to work with. The three things that make or break any relationship. How to make a good relationship great. All are welcome. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. Hosted by the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.

This is a free, in-person meeting on the subject of betrayals, losses and how to get over them so you can build lasting relationships. Burdened by a stressful relationship? Unhealthy relationships can trigger feelings of anger, despair or self-doubt. They can create dwindling spirals of fights and seeking to make-up, or trying to “pin the blame” on someone or something. If you don’t find the RIGHT reasons, or select the correct sources of the problem, the problem can just get worse and worse. Whether in love or personal ties, with friends or at work, our life really IS affected by the quality of our relationships. Good ones can promote pleasure and survival while less optimum ones can lead to annoyance, anger, self-doubt, stress, or even affect our health and ability to survive well. Whether you are suffering from a divorce, or a painful break-up, don’t know who to trust (or who to CHOOSE) as a partner, friend, boss or employee - the anxiety of relationship troubles can really make a mess of things. Maybe you’ve suffered a betrayal, or are dealing with hostility or criticalness or invalidation. Dwindling relationships can involve destructive behavior, where we hurt those we love, or start succumbing to self-destructive thoughts, attitudes or behaviors that spiral out of control and affect much more than our immediate relationship. Past losses in love or life can affect how we act or react to new people and situations and hold us back from even starting to create new, possibly great relationships! How can one get back onto a saner course of action? Come to our Meetup, where we can introduce you to some of the knowledge, tools and techniques of the breakthroughs in the field of the mind that we can apply to this ever important area of life: human relationships! Break free from self imposed limitations Here we will discuss: • How to “erase” the trauma of past hurts and betrayals so that one isn’t always repeating past mistakes. • Why and how do the negative emotions of others affect you? • Why is my partner withdrawing and what can I do about it? • Why do we sometimes feel compelled to hurt the ones we love? • Fights & arguments - what's really behind them? • What underlies “corrosive criticism” or the need to invalidate self or others? • How one can stably change one’s outlook on life so they can affect positive change? • Where do compulsive destructive behaviors come from and what can be done about them? • How to form closer bonds & keep growing the relationships with the people you care about? • How to enhance one’s own ability to survive and create positive healthy relationships whether in love, family & friendships or in work, business or one’s career? Relationships can be hard and life itself IS challenging. Why not arm yourself with the knowledge and breakthroughs that have been made about the mind, mental reactions & interpersonal relationships, so that one has better awareness and control over themselves and life in general. Learn where painful experiences are “stored” and how they can unknowingly affect us. You will also find out how one can “erase” those past painful experiences so that one is free to move forward without being tripped up by the past. Learn too, about what can lead some people to become “toxic” personalities and how to identify those traits in others so you won’t be tripped up trusting the wrong person. Our free Meet-ups occur in a safe environment where one can learn, without fear of judgment or criticism, and without the recommendation of harmful mental techniques or therapies, just how YOU can get yourself onto a happier & more successful path: in love & in life. We look forward to having you join us! This class is sponsored by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

Dale Gnidovec, Curator of the Orton Hall Museum of Geology at The Ohio State University, will be presenting a program he has wanted to share with us for a long time: Plate Tectonics. His description of his program: Continents on the move - Nothing in Earth history makes sense without moving continents - it tells us why mountains, volcanoes, minerals, and fossils are where they are. This talk examines the evidence for continental drift, why it was disbelieved, and explains how the more-encompassing theory of plate tectonics was developed and eventually proven. Dale is an energetic, incredibly knowledgeable, and very entertaining speaker and this will be another wonderful program by Dale. Hope to see you there! Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

Click Here For More Videos: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17vTa7EuwG/ ********************************* The Biggest Salsa Night to hit your mid-week is happening at Latin City Wednesdays. Get the feel of the Latin Beat as your hips and feet groove the right way. As always, we will provide refreshments and food. ********************************* Viva Dance Columbus (2809 Festival Lane Dublin, OH 43017) 830pm-930pm Cuban Salsa Lessons 930pm-Midnight Open Latin Dance Party $15 With Lesson $10 Just Open Dance ********************************** Free Parking, No Need to Bring a dance partner, No Sandals Please and Plenty of Space to Move Around.

Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! For this event, we’ll help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents, wash dishes and clean surfaces at Fath Mission – Grant Kitchen. We have a great little community of Movie Group friends so rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “Create a better world” by helping serve those in need. Here are complete details and our plan for this event: FAITH MISSION – GRANT KITCHEN: The Faith Mission kitchen and dining room serves residents 3 meals a day, every day of the year. Our group will help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents in the dining room, wash dishes, and clean surfaces. PLAN: We will be preparing / serving / cleaning for BRUNCH from 10:30am to 12:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 10:15am and wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. LOCATION: Faith Mission – Grant Kitchen is located at 245 N. Grant Ave. Enter the kitchen at Dock 1, indicated in the attached map. On-site and street parking are available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: \* LSS Volunteer Guidelines: Uploaded to photos. \* Parking Map Info: Uploaded to photos. \* LSS Faith Mission Orientation Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bp46_6ay6iA \* Link with Additional Details / Info: https://lss.vomo.org/opportunity/faith-mission-grant-kitchen-2025 IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing the all of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With very few exceptions, no shows or cancelations within 1 week of the event will not be eligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. THANK YOU: This CMG Gives Back event provides an opportunity for YOU to get involved in helping others! Benefits go well beyond the help we give to others. Volunteering provides a wide range of personal benefits, including positive effects on mental and physical health, reduced stress/depression/anxiety, increased happiness and improved purpose, life-satisfaction and personal well-being! Plus, the opportunity to get involved, connect with others and help those in need. PARTNER AGENCY: This event is hosted by Lutheran Social Services (LSS), which serves thousands of people in need each day in 27 Ohio counties by addressing the four core societal issues of food, shelter, safety and healing. LSS offers food through the LSS Food Pantries, housing and supportive services through LSS Faith Mission and LSS Faith Mission of Fairfield County homeless shelters, domestic violence services through LSS CHOICES for Victims of Domestic Violence, senior living and health care, affordable housing communities, and other services that uplift families and strengthen communities. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan