Global Citizenship

Common Ground Book Club
An in-person reading group exploring critical theory, from the Frankfurt School to contemporary thinkers. We’ll read books and essays, and our discussions will focus on society, power, and modern phenomena: from politics to media and social trends. 
Fourth Meeting
We will discuss the first part of Marcuse’s “One-Dimensional Man”, Introduction and Chapters 1-4 (till p. 123): https://files.libcom.org/files/Marcuse,%20H%20-%20One-Dimensional%20Man,%202nd%20edn.%20(Routledge,%202002).pdf The next meeting(s) will be devoted to Parts II and III :) 
Who is it for?
No prior philosophy or theory background is required, just curiosity and a willingness to engage. I (the organiser) am not an expert; I just seek other kind souls who want to exchange thoughts ✨ 
Format
• Readings may be short essays, selected chapters, or full books.
• Each meeting begins with a short recap/introduction of the text.
• Open, informal discussion.
• Everyone is encouraged to bring a passage or question they found interesting, confusing, or provocative.
• Language of discussion: English.
If you have any questions or suggestions, please reach out on Meet-up or Instagram: @commongroundbe

The Lions of Teranga have made it to the CAN 2025 Final! Whether you are a die-hard Senegal supporter, rooting for Morocco, or just love African football, there is no better place to watch the "Clash of the Lions" than in Matonge, Brussels' vibrant African quarter. Join us for an evening of Teranga (hospitality), Tchep (food), and total football fever. We will meet up before the match to grab dinner and drinks, soak up the electric atmosphere of the neighborhood, and watch the final together. 📋 The Agenda * 18:00: Meet & Greet at the venue. Introduction to the group. * 18:30: Order food! (Best time to get your Thieboudienne or Yassa before the rush). * 20:00: ⚽ KICK-OFF: Senegal vs. Morocco. * 22:00: Post-match celebrations (or consolations) in the streets of Matonge. 📍 The Venue: TBA 💰 Cost Pay for your own food and drinks. Please bring cash as card machines in Matonge can sometimes be overwhelmed on busy nights. RSVP: WhatsApp @ +32 483 464 569 Please make your RSVP so we can save the right number of seats! Allez les Lions!

Time: 3:45 PM (Meeting) for the 4:00 PM Entry Slot Location: Tour & Taxis (Shed 4 bis), Brussels 👋 Important: Members Event This meetup is organized for members of Sunday Vacations. * Already a member? Great! Skip to the ticket section below. * Not a member yet? We’d love to have you! Membership starts at just €5 / year. 👉 https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership The Experience: Don't Just See History, Live It We aren't just going to look at artifacts in glass cases. We are going to walk through history. This exhibition is a "narrative journey." Instead of dry facts, you will step onto a massive 1,200m² physical reconstruction of Pompeii's streets. You will enter the shops, visit the taverns, and walk through a Roman home, all while an audio story guides you through the daily life of a family in 79 AD. It’s the closest we can get to time travel-feeling the atmosphere of the city right before everything changed. Why Pompeii is the "Holy Grail" 🌋 Pompeii is special because it is a time capsule. The volcanic ash didn't just destroy the city; it froze it. It preserved wooden furniture, loaves of bread, and even the graffiti on the walls, giving us a rare, unfiltered look at how ordinary people actually lived. 💰 Insider Details: Coins in the Ashes Keep your eyes open for these fascinating details we’ll be looking for: * The "Menu" on the Wall: Look for the tavern graffiti that lists wine prices: "Drink for 1 coin, better wine for 2, the best for 4." It’s a direct link to the inflation and daily life of the time. * The Fugitive's Purse: We'll see the story of a man found clutching 20 silver denarii—his life savings, grabbed in a panic before he tried to flee. * Red Gold: Notice how some gold coins look reddish? That’s not rust. It’s a permanent chemical change caused by the intense heat of the pyroclastic flow. The Agenda * 3:45 PM: Meet at the entrance of Shed 4 bis (Tour & Taxis). Join the WhatsApp group by sending me a message to +32 483 464 469 * 4:00 PM: Enter the exhibition together (Strict entry slot!). * 5:30 PM: Post-Expo Social: After the history, comes the community. We will head next door to the Gare Maritime Food Market to grab a drink, debate our favorite parts of the exhibit, and enjoy the evening together. 🎟️ How to Join (2 Steps) Since this is a self-booked event, please follow these steps carefully: Step 1: Get your Community Membership Ensure your membership is active via the link at the top of this description. Step 2: Buy your Exhibition Ticket * Booking Link: https://tickets.expo-pompeii.com/en/appointment/9 * Select Date: 18/01/26 * Select Time: 4:00 PM * Note: Ensure you select "Back to Pompeii" at Tour & Taxis (NOT Brussels Expo). Step 3: RSVP Here Once you have your ticket, please RSVP "Yes" on this page so we know to look for you! Getting There * Address: Avenue du Port 86C, 1000 Brussels. * Transport: Free shuttle from North Station, or bus lines 14, 20, 57, 86, 88. See you in Ancient Rome! 🍇

You wake up, lie in bed for an hour then slowly do whatever. It's probably a good idea to eat something, but who am I to tell you what to do... But... I... can't... holddd iiiit... You pack your sh**, grab your a**, drive to the gym and we play volleyball.

Hello, readers ! In January we are reading The Vulnerables by Sigrid Nunez. ***Please note our new venue - Maison de Quartier Malibran, Rue de la Digue 10, 1050 Ixelles - and our new start time of 11am.*** More details on this change of venue will be sent soon in a separate message. **Please keep your RSVP up to date** and happy reading!

# 🏐 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 * **14:45** → Arrive & get ready * **15:00 – 15:30** → Warm-up & small training * **15:30 – 17:00** → 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 (after 10 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! 🏐

**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 English, French, or Dutch. 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 - 4:30 PM: JAPANESE CONVERSATION** \- Join us for the first 30 minutes dedicated to Japanese conversation and cultural exploration\. Beginners are welcome to listen or join after the initial half\-hour\. / 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。 * **4:30 PM - 6:00 PM: MULTI-LINGUAL EXCHANGE** \- Experience Belgium's diversity by sharing your language and culture with native Japanese members eager to learn English\, French\, or Dutch\. Engage in cross\-cultural conversations in various languages\. Introduce our Japanese friends to Belgian culture\, traditions\, and life\. 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. 4.00 pm for JAPANESE ONLY SESSION & 4.30 PM for ALL LANGUAGES SESSION 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！

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.

Escape the city bustle and join us for a magical evening walk from the royal gardens of Tervuren, through the ancient Sonian Forest, ending at the picturesque Rouge Cloître. This hike is perfect for anyone looking to unwind after work, breathe some fresh forest air, and enjoy the golden hour colors. 🗺️ The Route We will start at the Tervuren Station (terminus of Tram 44). We’ll begin by walking through the formal gardens and ponds of Tervuren Park, enjoying the open views and the sunset light reflecting on the water. From there, we will dive into the Sonian Forest (Zoniënwoud), walking under the canopy of the majestic beech cathedrals. The path will lead us gently downhill towards the historic Rouge Cloître (Rood Klooster), a 14th-century Augustinian priory nestled on the edge of the forest. 🕒 The Plan * Meeting Time: 15:45 * Meeting Point: Just outside the Tervuren Station (Terminus of Tram 44). * The Walk: We depart at 16:00] sharp. * The End: We aim to arrive at Rouge Cloître around 18:00. * Après-Walk: For those interested, we can grab a drink at a local spot near Herrmann-Debroux or at the brasserie in Rouge Cloître (depending on opening hours) . 📋 Practical Details * Distance: Approximately 7–8 km. * Duration: ~2 hours walking time. * Pace: Casual to moderate. We wait for everyone, but please be comfortable walking this distance. * Terrain: Mostly flat/downhill with some unpaved forest paths. 🎒 What to Bring * Comfortable Shoes: Walking shoes or sneakers (trail runners are great if it has rained recently). * Water: Stay hydrated! * Layers: Evenings can get chilly in the forest. 🚇 Getting Home The walk ends at Rouge Cloître. From there, it is a short 10-15 minute walk to Herrmann-Debroux metro station (Line 5), which connects you easily back to the city center. Note: This event is free of charge. Participation is at your own risk. Please RSVP only if you intend to come so we don't leave anyone behind! See you on the trail! 🌳✨

¡Ey, qué tal! 👋 ¿Crees que podrías sobrevivir solo con tu español? 😂 Vamos a ponerlo a prueba con un cafecito☕️ (o con lo que te dé la gana en el momento, ya sea una bebida 🍵 o un snack 🍪🍰🥐) 📍 Dónde: Leopold PDN. Este café puede ser algo difícil de encontrar, especialmente cuando llueve 🌧️☔️, pero así empieza la aventura, ¿no? 😂 No esperes hasta estar completamente perdido—mándame un mensaje antes de empezar a maldecir Google Maps 🗺️. ‼️🌤️Si el clima se porta, picnic en el parque 🌳 (Cinquantenaire), obvio. 🧺 🎯 La idea: Pides algo (¡obligatorio! ☝️) y te unes a la mesa. Empezamos con una mini intro y luego hablamos de todo: actividades, viajes, música… Y si tienes ganas, ¡jugamos a algo! Todo en español, así que ¡prepárate para la inmersión! Dependiendo de cuántos seamos, podemos dividirnos por niveles para que todos disfruten al máximo. 🎲 Juegos: Nada de tableros gigantes que acaben tirando los cafés por toda la mesa. Solo juegos rápidos y divertidos (tipo UNO o Exploding Kittens 💥🐱). Yo llevaré unos, pero si tienes alguno que te guste, tráelo sin miedo. Eso sí, los juegos con texto, ¡en español! ⏱ Horarios: Empezamos a las 15:00, pero si llegas más tarde, no pasa nada, te unes cuando quieras y te quedas el rato que quieras. ¿Vas a llegar después de las 15:30? Dímelo en el chat para guardarte un lugar. 😊 🚦 Lista de espera Si estás en la lista de espera pero realmente quieres venir, o si tienes cualquier duda, mándame un mensaje directo... 📢 Más info se puede compartir en el chat o por DM 💬—asegúrate de revisar tus mensajes 👀 el día antes para no perderte nada crítico 🙄. 🐈‍⬛ El Código de los Amigos: 👉 Nada de formalidades – aquí venimos a divertirnos 😎 👉 Respeto y buena onda – si no, 💥🥊 👉 ¡¿Los errores?! ¡Nos dan igual! Y si nos cuesta, cambiamos al inglés o mejor: 🎭💃🎶🎸🤹🏿‍♂️ 👉 ¿No puedes venir? Cancela para que alguien en la lista de espera pueda tomar tu lugar 🙏 👉 Si estás en la lista de espera, no te presentes sin confirmación. ¡Hasta luego!😉

Let's continue the tradition and play UNO, everybody is welcome :) If you're on the waitlist please check your messages, especially on Sunday. If people drop off last minute I tend to message people on the waitlist to see who can come. We'll be playing at the lobby of Radisson RED, Brussels. The address of the hotel is: Rue d'Idalie 35, 1050 Bruxelles My number is 0471 45 55 02. Feel free to call if you cannot solve a physics question, cannot find the place or simply need a hug. I have quickly written a set of rules on how we play. It is assumed that the reader has a basic concept of the game. *** Setup: * Each player starts with 6 or 7 cards each (depending on total number of players) * A card is shown in play in the middle of everyone, this is known as the top card. Goal: * The goal of the game for each player is to get rid of all cards in your hand Rules: * Whenever you go from two cards to one card, you have to say "UNO". * Each player takes his turn one by one, initially going in the clock-wise direction * A card may be played if it matches the same colour or same number or same type as the top card in play * The two black cards (Draw 4 and Wild) can be played regardless of the top card in play. * Interruption rule: You may interrupt the general flow of the game (clockwise or counter-clockwise) if you have the EXACT same card as the top card in play. If you manage to play the card prior to the person whose turn it's supposed to be, then the game continues on from you in the same direction it was previously. (Unless the reverse card was interrupted, then the direction changes). * Draw2 or Draw4 cards can be played in accordance to the interruption rule. The following person after the interrupt has to take the accumulated number of cards. If however, cards have already been drawn AND seen by the person who was supposed to take the cards, then only the remainder of cards has to be drawn. * Once someone has no cards remaining in his hand, play stops and we start counting points. Points: * Number cards have the face value as the number of points. i.e. number 6 is worth 6 points, number 0 is worth 0 points, number 4 is worth 4 points. * Skip, reverse and Draw2 are worth 20 points each * Wild and draw4 are worth 50 points each

A relaxed pool night and language exchange for curious, open-minded people in Brussels. Pool, drinks, and real conversation without the fake networking vibe. This is **not** a tournament and not a “watch one guy run the table” event. We rotate games, mix people, and keep it social. Use our whatsapp Chat also to RSVP and updates! https://chat.whatsapp.com/CArK9cobiSmCKRSKCGhFCJ ### **What to expect** * Casual pool * Rotations so everyone plays * **Language exchange**: EN/FR/NL/ES/IT (and whatever else shows up) Switch languages anytime, no pressure ### **Food** The venue is right next to **Dea’s Pizza**. During the night, feel free to grab a takeaway pizza and **eat it at Taverne Magnolia**. ### **Cost** * Everyone pays their own drinks and table time * If we share tables, we split costs fairly (1 game 1 Euro) ### **Safety and respect policy (non-negotiable)** We’ve had reports of creeps at other Brussels meetups bothering women. That does not happen at our events. * The host will actively keep an eye on the vibe, especially **women’s comfort and safety** * **No harassment, no sexual comments, no persistent flirting after a “no,” no invasive questions, no following people around** * If someone feels unsafe or uncomfortable, go to the host directly. The host will intervene. ### **Meet point** Meet inside near the pool tables at **Taverne Magnolia**. If you’re late, post in the event chat so rotations don’t start without you.

This Sunday let's go back to the Flemish Ardennes, with a hike that is a direct continuation of one we did in November (from Ede to Ninove). We start at the train station of Ninove and cross some small wetlands (probably rather muddy after the last weeks' snow and rain) before we reach the Dender, which we follow for some kilometers. After turning away from the river we walk through the Rappaillebos and enter Geraardsbergen via the Oudenberg and its famous chapel before descending into town for a final drink. As the number of participants is limited, it is important that you manage your registration responsibly: only sign up if you really intend to come and cancel as soon as you know you can’t (this also goes for people on the waiting list!). We will try to keep close to an average speed of about 4.5 km/h. We will walk mainly on unpaved roads. I’ve not tested this track beforehand, so it’s possible that there are some mistakes in the planning (i.e. it may become longer ;-). ●●You can find the gpx track here: **Wikilocs:** https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/von-ninove-nach-geraardsbergen-247100040 **Komoot**: https://www.komoot.com/de-de/tour/2678108792?share_token=aNZK7ki12VaQOwZvBkWxpd1wcmr8EK9LlHzfDCV13MtnJFYbTv&ref=wtd ●●Meeting point: We meet at 8h30 in the main hall of Gare Central, in front of Starbucks (sorry for the early start, I need to be back in town for a concert) and take the train at 8.45 (IC3631 to Gent). We change in Denderleeuw and arrive in Ninove at 9.32 ●● Train tickets: BXL-Ninove 5.00€ or 3.00€ with Train+, Geraardsbergen-BXL 6.40€ or 3.90€ with Train+ ●● Back to Brussels: From Geraardsbergen there are two trains back every hour, at XX.55 direct (52 min to Gare Central) and at XX.07 via Denderleeuw (1h 08 min to Gare Central). ●● Specifics: Distance: ca 24 km Elevation gain: 150 - 200m Net walking time: ca 5.5 h Weather forecast: fresh, fairly dry In the unlikely case of too bad weather, we may cancel a hike, even few hours before the event. If this must happen, we will of course update the Meetup website and send out an email to those registered. So it is important to have access to either the Meetup.com website and/or your emails. ●● What to bring: * Comfortable hiking clothes &shoes * rain gear (just in case) * water and drink for the breaks * Compeed for blisters * some small money for drinks ●● Basic rules: Please RSVP only if you really intend to come. And if your plans change, update your RSVP asap, even hours before the walk. This is basic courtesy towards others. Repeated late cancellations are not well considered (at all). No-shows are even worse. Do not show up for a hike unless you are on the “going” list. ●● Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability: You are responsible for yourself and should be fit enough if you want to take part. As the participation in the events is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves. By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organisers from any responsibility and liability.

**Cinematek : The Unbearable Lightness of Being** 18/01 @ 16h00 Verbeelden met taal is wezenlijk iets anders dan vertellen met beelden; een romanschrijver heeft daardoor misschien wel een grotere macht dan een filmmaker. Hij kan zijn karakters laten dansen op zijn commando en hun verhoudingen eindeloos veranderen, totdat hij alles zo belicht heeft dat de lezer het werk kan afmaken: de romanschrijver is een superieure poppenspeler. Milan Kundera beheerst dit werk in zijn roman ‘De Ondraaglijke Lichtheid van het Bestaan’ tot in de puntjes. Zijn exploratie van het menselijk handelen in de liefde (vrij of romantisch) en onder dictatuur (aanpassen of rug recht houden) deed hij door middel van vier karakters – twee mannen en twee vrouwen – die elk een pool van het morele spectrum vertegenwoordigen, maar nooit helemaal zuiver zijn. De vier hoofdpersonen verhouden zich in een symmetrische tweeslachtigheid. Tomas is overspelig maar ruïneert zijn carrière omdat hij niet wil zwichten voor de communisten; Tereza is moreel zuiver in de liefde maar is door haar gebondenheid daaraan niet vrij; Sabina is dat wel maar loopt weg voor de liefde; de westerse professor Franz (Derek de Lint) gelooft evenzeer in de ware liefde als in linkse idealen, maar bedriegt zijn vrouw met Sabina en is een salonsocialist. De geloofwaardigheid van de romanfiguren wordt geschraagd door het vertellen van hun levensgeschiedenis en filosofische bespiegelingen over het verschil tussen kunst en kitsch. Doe dat maar eens na in een film; dat heeft Philip Kaufman ook geprobeerd. De plot volgt het boek nauwkeurig en Kaufman wist dat 170 minuten echt niet te lang was. Dat is het ook niet maar de karakters zijn slechts schimmen van wat ze in het boek zijn. Ondanks een uitstekende cast, waardoor deze film zeker memorabel is, slagen de makers er niet in de ingewikkelde dualiteit van de hoofdpersonen tot een tragische te maken. De film is eerder een maximale verbeelding van het boek dan een superieur substituut; de karakters worden te zeer versimpeld. Het boek lijkt onverfilmbaar omdat de plot alleen niet genoeg is en het meenemen van alle essentiële details een te lange film zou vergen. Maar de acteurs doen hun uiterste best. Degenen die de film zien voor het lezen van het boek zullen al lezend nooit meer los komen van de gezichten van Day-Lewis, Binoche en Olin, die werkelijk perfect gecast zijn in de rijke vijver van de Europese film. Dit is, samen met de mooie plaatjes in Bergman-stijl, de bestaansgrond voor deze film, die een formidabele tagline heeft: ‘a lovers story’. Jan-Kees Verschuure [Cinematek](https://cinematek.be/2026-01-18-16-00/the-unbearable-lightness-of-being) [Cine Magazine](https://cinemagazine.nl/the-unbearable-lightness-of-being-1988-recensie/) **For Dreamers, Coffee shots, Orezza, eau de Saint-Georges !**

Join us Saturday, 1/31 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm for an evening at The Cozy at Portia’s Café. Come learn about this local, grassroots animal rights organization and our current campaigns. Whether you want to do more for animals or simply meet other activists and vegans, this is the place for you. Bring your friends — all animal lovers are welcome. Enjoy games, socializing, and meaningful connections with fellow vegans and animal advocates. Light snacks and drinks will be provided. Feel free to purchase food from Portia’s if you’d like — it’s completely optional. Location: Portia’s Café 3083 Indianola Ave, Columbus, OH 43202 The Cozy is located right next door.

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.

**Join Us for Brunch at Portia’s Cafe!** 🌿 Come meet fellow vegan friends and enjoy a delicious brunch with the Columbus Vegan Meetup! We’ll be gathering at **[The Cozy](https://www.google.com/viewer/place?mid=/g/12hqnx2x0&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj9lPzVmI6SAxXs48kDHS9NMbgQqdYPegYIAQgFEAI)** (located right next door to Portia’s Cafe) to sample a 100% vegan and gluten-free menu featuring savory wraps, breakfast favorites, hearty soups, and decadent desserts. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with a community that shares your values while supporting a local, family-owned staple in our city. * **When:** Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 11:00 AM * **Where:** [The Cozy](https://www.google.com/viewer/place?mid=/g/11h352ht38&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj9lPzVmI6SAxXs48kDHS9NMbgQqdYPegYIAQgHEAM) (next to Portia’s Cafe) * **Address:** 4428 Indianola Ave, Columbus, OH 43214 We can’t wait to see you there!

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.

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.

**(‼️‼️*Important:* GO [HERE](https://calendly.com/movewithcouragecoaching/leadership-coffee-chat) to be enrolled in the workshop. Signing up on Meetup won't fully register you!‼️‼️)** **WHAT: ☕ Leadership Coffee Chat** **WHEN: 🗓️ Thursday, January 29 at 7 PM EST** **WHERE: Sign Up: [HERE](https://calendly.com/movewithcouragecoaching/leadership-coffee-chat) only** Join us for a relaxed, supportive Leadership Coffee Chat where you can connect with others, share what you’re navigating at work, and get guidance from a certified career coach, interview coach, leadership coach, and professional résumé writer. This space is designed for real conversation — the kind you don’t always get at work. Bring your questions, your current challenges, or anything you’re trying to figure out in your career or leadership journey. You’ll have the chance to: * Meet other professionals who are growing and leveling up * Support each other through real‑life workplace situations * Get practical advice from a coach who specializes in career clarity, leadership, interviewing, and résumé strategy * Leave with clarity, encouragement, and next steps Whether you’re exploring leadership, preparing for a promotion, navigating workplace dynamics, or simply wanting to grow — you’re welcome here. ➡️➡️ Sign Up **[HERE ](https://calendly.com/movewithcouragecoaching/leadership-coffee-chat)**Not through Meetup if you'd like to attend!

Join us as we get together to see the winner of the Best International Film at TIFF and a triple Golden Globe nominee: NO OTHER CHOICE! This top-reviewed dark comedy satirical thriller follows a man devises a unique plan to secure a new job: eliminate his competition. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: The film follows a desperate paper industry expert who decides to kill off his competition to be assured of the job he seeks to maintain his way of life. The film is co-written / produced / directed by Park Chan-wook and is based on The Ax by Donald Westlake. It stars Lee Byung-hun, Son Ye-jin, Park Hee-soon, Lee Sung-min, Yeom Hye-ran, and Cha Seung-won. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcz-RXMCyco BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews as the Venice International Film Festival and later at the Toronto Film Festival where it won the International People’s Choice Award! It just received 3 Golden Globe nominations for Best Picture (Musical or Comedy), Best Foreign Language Film and Best Actor for Lee Byung-hun. It was also selected as the South Korean entry (and likely nominee) for Best International Film at this year’s Academy Awards! MOVIE PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 2:00pm 4K showing and meet in the upstairs lobby area between 1:35 and 1:45pm! Tickets $11.25 via the GFC website and includes online ticketing fee. Advance purchase is advised. Once you have yours please list your seat number in the Comments below. DINNER PLAN: The new burger place isn’t open yet but we’ll still try someplace new! And someplace where the cuisine matches the film! Join us immediately following the movie at nearby TAKOREA, located just downstairs and next to the theater! We’ll try to grab the trio of tables just inside the door, which should work perfectly for our group! MENU: From small plates to tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and bowls, they have a wildly inventive menu that offers a “Korean-Mexican fusion concept” that serves “delicious food that everyone can enjoy!” Popular entrees include tacos, nachos and burritos made with Bulgogi beef, pork carnitas, Korean fried chicken, and even BBQ Tofu, along with traditional sides, chips and a variety of dips. For the vegans in the group, the BBQ Tofu Burrito is listed as “vegan friendly” and that combo of ingredients can be used in just about any entrée! And, if you’re not into Korean food, they have several straight-Mexican options as well! You can check out their menu here: https://www.takoreacbus.com/menu PARKING: Close, convenient parking is available in the nearby garage (located between 9th and 11th, just off High St). Bring your ticket with you and have it validated at the theater and for $2, you’re covered for the night! PARKING: Close, convenient parking is available in the nearby garage (located between 9th and 11th, just off High St). Bring your ticket with you and have it validated at the theater and for $2, you’re covered for the night! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan