Humanism

Nurture your Tarot-loving light as we gather together each fortnight with our cards to engage in conversations that aim to keep our connection with our decks lively, prescient, insightful, and exploratory. Develop your own dialogue in respectful relationship with one another and the cards feeling empowered to participate irrespective of your ‘level’ of card-conversing ability. Each conversation shall be instigated via creative prompts, questions, and pithy talks on a broad range of Tarot-related influences in a ritually-held circle that ensures ample time is provided for reading the cards for one another and sharing our own unique perceptions, wisdom's, experiences and reflections on life. All Tarot decks and levels of experience are welcomed. *‘The Tarot is a nomadic cathedral and constitutes first and foremost an apprenticeship in seeing.’* Marianne Costa from **The Way of the Tarot; the Spiritual Teacher in the Cards** **PLEASE NOTE: NUMBERS FOR EACH WORKSHOP ARE CAPPED AT 20.** **Please book your tickets ($15) through the below Humanitix Link:** https://events.humanitix.com/conversations-with-the-cards1 **OR Pay for your ticket ($15) at the door** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- The MTS is committed to providing events that align with and further The three objects of The Theosophical Society: * To form a nucleus of the universal brotherhood of humanity, without distinction of race, creed, sex, caste or colour. * To encourage the study of comparative religion, philosophy and science. * To investigate unexplained laws of nature and the powers latent in the human being. However this being stated, the MTS does not endorse any health, spiritual, science-related, philosophical or theological /other assertions or claims made by any facilitator we host.

If you are honest with yourself and with others, you can't help but do well in life. A relationship exists between your own self-respect - how you look at your own personal values - and how successful you are. A person who is honest, outspoken and respects himself will get more done and accomplish his goals far easier than someone who is dishonest, introverted and withdrawn. Now you will learn the underlying reasons why people withdraw from others and life or feel a loss of personal integrity.

**GUIDED MEDITATION + SHAMANIC SOUND HEALING JOURNEY** *Clear • Cleanse • Manifest* *$30 entry* Step into a space of deep relaxation, release, and renewal. Join us for an immersive healing experience designed to help you **clear what no longer serves you, cleanse your energy, and manifest with intention.** ✨ Release stress & overwhelm ✨ Clear emotional & energetic blockages ✨ Cleanse and rebalance your energy ✨ Reset your nervous system ✨ Manifest clarity, intention & new beginnings 🕯 **What to expect:** • Guided meditation • Shamanic sound journey (drums & healing frequencies) • Deep energetic clearing & reset • Space for intention setting & manifestation

Are you looking for an opportunity to learn more about Buddhism and meditation? Come and join us for our regular Buddhist meditation sessions every Tuesday. Every session will start with a short introductory and will be followed by a guided, 20 - 30 minute meditation. Feel free to join us after the session for some social time and questions and answers. The evening is free of charge, but donations are always welcome. More info can be found here: https://diamondway.org.au/centres/melbourne

Hi Radiant Ladies, Come and have a coffee at this modern cafe in Collins street. The staff are friendly and we always get good service. Please note that we will start at 11:00am. See you there! Di 🌸

Join us to see Melbourne Museum’s special exhibition ‘ROME: Empire, Power, People’ followed by lively discussion about the relevance of themes such as power and human dignity, over lunch in Lygon Street. Please scroll right through to end to see discussion points for lunch AND suggested prior reading link. Meet at museum: 11.45 am Exhibition: 12.00pm - 1.15pm Walk to restaurant: 10min Lunch: 1.30pm @ Il Gambero 166 Lygon Street Indicate in comments if you are coming to exhibition and / or lunch. ***New Members:*** New members are more than welcome, we are a good-natured bunch who value friendship and exploring the realm of next wave humanism. Interested? Come and join the conversation! ***Cost:*** $35 adult, $30 senior, $30 concession **PLEASE PURCHASE TICKET DIRECTLY ON MUSEUM WEBSITE FOR ROME: EMPIRE, POWER, PEOPLE FOR 12.00PM 19 APRIL AS SOON AS POSSIBLE TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT** [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/tickets/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/tickets/) $5 CONTRIBUTION (IF YOU CAN) TOWARDS ONGOING OPERATIONAL COSTS ***About the exhibition:*** From the fall of Julius Caesar to the power and ambition of an Empire, the exhibition showcases the luxury of Imperial Rome, the spectacle of the gladiator arena, the bustling marketplaces and the everyday experiences of Romans. Explore Ancient Rome’s political, social and spiritual worlds through over 180 objects dating from the Imperial period 1st Century CE to the 3rd Century CE, with all of the objects on display in Melbourne for the first time ever. The splendour, drama and humanity of Rome is brought to life in detail with scenography and multimedia, giving visitors an immersive experience and vivid portrait of a civilisation that continues to shape our world today. ***Link with modern humanism and points for discussion over lunch:*** **🏛 Power, Citizenship, and Human Responsibility** Rome’s political system—centralised under the emperor yet still tied to republican ideals—invites reflection on **human agency**, **leadership**, and **ethical governance**. * The emperor’s authority shows how power can stabilise or destabilise societies, prompting questions about **justice**, **accountability**, and **the common good**. * The expansion of citizenship, culminating in the *Constitutio Antoniniana* (212 CE), highlights evolving ideas about **belonging**, **rights**, and **inclusion**. * The Senate, magistrates, and local elites demonstrate how communities negotiate **shared responsibility** and **public service**. Humanist connection: Studying these structures encourages us in the 21st Century to consider what fair leadership looks like, how societies might distribute power, and how individuals contribute to civic life. **🎨 Culture, Creativity, and the Value of Expression** Roman cultural life—its literature, architecture, philosophy, and public entertainment—reveals a civilisation deeply invested in **human creativity** and **shared cultural identity**. * Writers like Seneca, Pliny, and Juvenal explored moral questions, emotions, and the human condition. * Monumental architecture expressed collective values: memory, pride, identity, and aspiration. * Religious and philosophical traditions (Stoicism, mystery cults, local deities) show humans searching for meaning and ethical frameworks. Humanist connection: These cultural expressions affirm the humanist belief that creativity, reflection, and intellectual inquiry enrich both individuals and communities. **🏺 Social Life, Dignity, and the Human Condition** Roman society was hierarchical, unequal, and often harsh—especially for enslaved people, women, and the poor. Yet it also reveals universal human experiences: family, work, belonging, resilience, and aspiration. * The *familia* structure shows how people sought stability, identity, and continuity. * Urban life—baths, markets, forums—demonstrates the importance of **community spaces** where people meet, talk, and coexist. * The presence of slavery and inequality invites ethical reflection on **human dignity**, **freedom**, and **justice**. Humanist connection: By examining both the achievements and injustices of Roman society, we can reflect on the importance of empathy, moral reasoning, and an understanding of how societies can uphold—or violate—human dignity. **🌍 Why This Link Matters for Learning** Connecting Rome to humanist values helps us: * see history as a lens for understanding ethical questions; * recognise the continuity of human concerns across time; * reflect on how societies shape and are shaped by human choices; * develop critical thinking about power, culture, and identity; * understand that studying the past is ultimately about understanding people. It turns the Roman Empire from a distant civilisation into a mirror for thinking about what kind of world we want to build today. ***Suggested prior reading:*** In preparation for the exhibition it is recommended to read about the events of Rome during this time period of 1st Century CE to the 3rd Century CE, and the philosopher Seneca. [https://www.britannica.com/place/ancient-Rome/The-transformation-of-Rome-and-Italy-during-the-Middle-Republic](https://www.britannica.com/place/ancient-Rome/The-transformation-of-Rome-and-Italy-during-the-Middle-Republic) [https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/seneca/](https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/seneca/)

''A Course in Miracles (ACIM)" is The Channelled Works of Jesus / Isa / Yoshua (Same Human Being - Named Differently by Different Religions) from 1965 - 1972. It Supplements and can go beyond anything The Bible, The Koran and The Torah has taught you. Find Out if you are ready to experience Spiritual Growth Beyond Religious Teachings (THE ACTUAL PROMISED: SECOND COMING) that have been Edited or Re-Translated over many centuries or EVEN Added to for The Suppression of Women. It Upholds the prophecies from those 3 holy books, but Clarifies More Deeply where they don't seem able to FULLY for the ordinary 21st Century human being, who finds it difficult to understand esoteric teachings handed down by Mystical Schools. You have free will to decide when you will commence your Journey HOME from Earth. We can Listen to Recordings of the above mentioned works. Alternatively, I also have DVD or CD recordings from Joseph Campbell, Deepak Chopra, Mother Theresa, Stuart Wilde, David Hawkins, Esther Hicks, Dennis Waitley, Gregg Braden, Wayne Dyer and Others. Topics that can be covered include: How "A Course in Miracles" came to be, Near Death Experiences, The Second Coming, The Evolution of Mankind's Spiritual Understanding, The Human Ego, Buddhism, The Christian Teachings EDITED FROM The Bible, Taoism, Ayurveda, Zen, Chi, The Bhagavad - Gita and Guided Meditations. This event is stated to run 3 hours, but those not able to can leave early and this would never be a problem. The Nature of THE BIRTHER (ETERNAL UNCONDITIONALLY LOVING SOURCE) and The Nature of OUR ESSENCES (SOULS) are Identical (Made in God's Image). The Insane Human Ego is THE ORIGINAL MISTAKE. Our Goal is to use THE POWER of REASON to UNDO IT, while on Earth!!!

## **SEA OF FAITH IN AUSTRALIA (SoFiA)** \- Melbourne\. In-Person Lecture/Discussion. ***"A Critique of Atheism."*** **Steven Higson** will present the topic and lead the discussion. Wikipedia's entry on **[Atheism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atheism)** *\~ SoFiA promotes the open exploration of religion, spirituality and the search for meaning. They welcome ALL viewpoints, including Atheism.\~* Enquiries: sofmelb@iprimus.com.au **[SOFiA Website](http://www.sof-in-australia.org/).** **[Facebook: 'Sofiatalk'](https://www.facebook.com/groups/sofiatalk/)** \- Please join their ongoing discussions\.

You’re not overwhelmed because you’re doing too little. You’re overwhelmed because your attention is under attack. In a world of constant pings, shifting priorities, and endless context switching, burnout doesn’t arrive all at once—it creeps in quietly, disguising itself as “just another busy week.” This session with Nosh cuts through the noise. Blending human-centred design and real-world experience along simple practical tools, Nosh will help us recognise the early signals of cognitive overload and how we can manage it. It’s about working with your mind and not against it. Nosh is a purpose-driven service designer with international experience, working at the intersection of technology and human-centred experience. He embraces complexity to create more human systems, beyond work, he is a seeker of stillness. If you want to thrive rather than just survive in the age of infinite distraction… this session is for you.

We live busy lives in busy times. Anxiety, depression and discontent are on the increase. There are no quick fixes for our modern woes. We are born and we die but in between can be glorious – this is the way of Zen. Zen is a way of life that is extremely practical and applicable to our contemporary concerns. It is not a religion, nor a dogma. It is a path made by walking on it. Alongside Hellenistic and Western concepts, erudite and entertaining Peter Lim, shall discuss the elements of Chinese philosophy, of Confucianism, Taoism and Zen that contribute to living a happy life as well as explore some of the impediments we often encounter along the way. ‘Flow with whatever may happen and let your mind be free. Stay centered by accepting whatever you are doing. This is the ultimate.’ Zhuangzi. Peter Lim, Dr Lim Meng Sing, is the author of many books: The Gentle Art of Tao Leadership, The Art of Purposeful Living: A Taoist Guide for the Modern Age, The Heart has its Reasons: Poems on Love and Life, and his memoir; Growing Up in British Malaya. As scholar, philosopher, poet and singer Peter believes the spiritual faculty is the highest faculty we humans have and as a humble Humanist, he has been deeply devoted to a life of purpose and integrity for over 45 years. The MTS is committed to providing events that align with and further The three objects of The Theosophical Society: * To form a nucleus of the universal brotherhood of humanity, without distinction of race, creed, sex, caste or colour. * To encourage the study of comparative religion, philosophy and science. * To investigate unexplained laws of nature and the powers latent in the human being. However this being stated, the MTS does not endorse any health, spiritual, science-related, philosophical or theological /other assertions or claims made by any facilitator we host.

**Debates vs Discussions** Stay tuned for video links and questions **Grace, persuasion and Christianity** Stay tuned for video links and questions **Pressure, coercion and Islam** Stay tuned for video links and questions **Evangelism vs Proselytism** Stay tuned for video links and questions **Propaganda vs Education** Stay tuned for video links and questions

**Join your local guides on the best pub crawl in Melbourne!** Meet at WAX Music Lounge on 250 Flinders St, and explore the best, most well-known venues with people from all over the world. With **4 free 'welcome shots'** upon entry to each bar followed by exclusive drink deals at each, you'll see just why Melbourne is known as the nightlife capital of Australia! Experience a range of Melbourne's most famous bars & pubs throughout the night, with **free entry** for all, and reduced entry/recommendations at the end of the event to keep your night going strong! Play games, **win prizes** and mingle with locals, travelers & everything in between on the most sought-after event in Melbourne! * **4 FREE SHOTS** * **4 BARS ALL WITH FREE SKIP-THE-LINE ENTRY** * **PLENTY OF GAMES AND PRIZES TO BE WON** * **UNLIMITED MEMORIES & CHANCES TO MAKE FRIENDS IN THE CULTURAL CAPITAL OF AUSTRALIA!** Starting at 5:30PM at WAX Music Lounge on 250 Flinders St, you will receive your skip-the-line wristband, free welcome shot and mingle with other attendees before we introduce our games and prizes to be won throughout the evening. We then mix it up weekly, visiting some of Melbourne's most iconic and well-known bars with your pub crawl crew who have lived and breathed the city for most of their lives. **Make sure to lock in your spot ASAP as tickets often sell out!**

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

ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio TBD Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!

This month's prompt concerns the idea of the “warrior philosopher” (seemed appropriate in these times)--that is someone whose understanding of violence, power, and justice is forged through direct experience of war. We are looking at Major General Smedley D. Butler, a highly decorated U.S. Marine raised in a Quaker (pacifist) tradition who later became a prominent critic of American militarism (there is a wonderful biography of Gen. Butler called "Gangsters of Capitalism") Butler's argument in *War Is a Racket* (1935): that many U.S. interventions were driven less by national defense than by corporate and financial interests, with Butler portraying himself as an enforcer for business and Wall Street. We can consider the moral ambiguity of his insider critique—whether complicity strengthens or undermines credibility and also consider some of the concrete reforms he proposed (e.g., “conscript” capital before soldiers, restrict the military to coastal defense, and have only those who fight decide on war). Butler’s life arc clearly changed from pacifist upbringing to warrior to antiwar crusader—and asks whether true understanding of peace requires firsthand knowledge of war, and what that implies about the cost of suffering. So do we need to suffer to understand suffering? Do we have to experience war to appreciate peace? As one more question: in the movie "A Few Good Men" Jack Nicholson's character says that "you have the luxury of not knowing what I know" so do most of us go through life oblivious to real violence and suffering? See you at Drunken Philosophy!

Start your week the right way with Manic Mondays. Giving you an enjoyable Bachata lesson with a push of cool moves. The second hour has Beginner/Intermediate Salsa on 1. You must understand basic Salsa skills to participate. 730pm-830pm Bachata Cool Moves 830pm-930pm Salsa On 1 (Beginner/Intermediate) $15 for One Class $20 for Both Free Parking & Plenty of Dance Space.

Main Library, Meeting Room 2B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.

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.

Jimmy V's Grill & Pub in Grandview Heights. We meet in the bar in the room on the right (the cigar shop). 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. *** Did you know that there are atheists everywhere?!?! You may not know it, but we are! We're in your schools, diners, police force, military, government, and some are even still in your churches! So come and join us and meet other local atheists, along with agnostics, heathens, humanists, skeptics, and anyone else who's 'hell bound'! Vision: a Central Ohio that accepts atheism as a viable alternative in all areas of public and private life. Mission: grow, support, and provide community for atheists in Central Ohio. Social meetings held most Tuesdays at a local pub/restaurant at 7:00 PM (and often into the wee hours). Attendees call themselves agnostics, skeptics, humanists, non-theists, deists or even theists. All attendees are welcome but should support our vision. Atheists of Columbus (AoC) is part of Omnipresent Atheists (OA). AoC members are invited to join this OA meetup and/or OA Facebook group ( https://www.facebook.com/groups/omnipresentatheists/ ) but are free to continue conversations on the AoC Facebook group ( https://www.facebook.com/groups/columbusatheists/ ). AoC was founded in 2012 as a networking, social group for Central Ohio area humanists, skeptics, atheists, agnostics, nonbelievers, freethinkers, and the curious. It was a member of Columbus CoR and held weekly meetings, mostly on Fridays, for several years but then operated as an online only group for some time. In November 2018, Omnipresent Atheists (OA), a group that routinely meets on Tuesdays, invited AoC to merge. Omnipresent Atheists is a member of the Columbus Coalition of Reason (ColumbusCoR.org). Omnipresent Atheists is a member of the Columbus Coalition of Reason ( http://www.ColumbusCoR.org ). Omnipresent Atheists endorses the mission of the Secular Coalition for America ( http://secular.org ).