Intellectual Discussions

* **read event description before signing up** * **register on Meetup to attend** * **update RSVP if plans change** * **arrive at 2.50pm** * **read the Book before session** * **review the Questions** [Book 4 - Part 2 - verses 25-51](https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/The_Thoughts_of_the_Emperor_Marcus_Aurelius_Antoninus/Book_IV) *Reading Time - 16 minutes* *Prior knowledge is not required* [Gregory Hays translation used in session](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Meditations-Translation-Modern-Library-Classics/dp/0812968255/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1DYZJGWO42PUG&keywords=meditations+gregory+hays&qid=1656706450&s=books&sprefix=Meditations+Gregory%2Cstripbooks%2C91&sr=1-1) Meditations is one of the greatest works of spiritual and ethical reflection ever written. With a profound understanding of human behaviour, Marcus provides insights, wisdom, and practical guidance on everything from living in the world to coping with adversity to interacting with others. Explore this timeless collection that has been consulted and admired by leaders, readers and thinkers throughout the centuries. **Questions we'll explore** 1\. A philosopher without clothes and one without books\. “I have nothing to eat,” says he, as he stands there half-naked, “but I subsist on the logos.” And with nothing to read, I subsist on it too. (30) *What do you make of this?* 2\. Then what should we work for? Only this: proper understanding; unselfish action; truthful speech. A resolve to accept whatever happens as necessary and familiar, flowing like water from that same source and spring. (33) *What are the implications?* 3\. To pass through this brief life as nature demands\. To give it up without complaint. Like an olive that ripens and falls. Praising its mother, thanking the tree it grew on. (48) *How do you feel about this?* 4\. So remember this principle when something threatens to cause you pain: the thing itself was no misfortune at all; to endure it and prevail is great good fortune. (49a) *Do you agree or disagree?* 5\. Take the shortest route\, the one that nature planned—to speak and act in the healthiest way\. Do that, and be free of pain and stress, free of all calculation and pretension. (51) *How would you go about this?* **To fund the costs of** [room hire](https://bunhillquakers.org.uk/files/2025_bunhill_booking_info_trifold.pdf) **and** [Meetup subscription](https://www.meetup.com/blog/new-organizer-pricing-key-improvements/) **£15 is payable** To minimise admin there are no refunds/credits unless the meeting is cancelled. Refunds exclude Meetup/PayPal fees. **If you sign up and can no longer attend, please Edit RSVP asap to "Not going" so someone else can take your spot.** There is no waiting list if the event is full. Please check this Meetup page on the day of the event, as a spot may become available if there is a late cancellation. **If you sign up, and do not Edit RSVP to "Not going", and are a no show, you will be removed from the Group and can rejoin after 3 months.**

**Join LCC Sunday, March 8th at the Hackney Marshes playing field as we make another attempt at playing the Soviet Union's very own *Zarnitsa,* a capture-the-flag alternative with a small twist.** **WHAT IS ZARNITSA?** Zarnitsa (Зарница), or heat-lightning, officially known as the All-Union Young Pioneer military sports game "Zarnitsa", is a massive multi-player physical sports game developed and practiced by the Young Pioneers communist youth organisation during the Soviet era. The game provides a simulation of military actions such as reconnaissance, co-ordinated offensives, giving chase, etc. Popular once again in modern Russia, this is a simple game designed for children and young people in military/cadet organisations, but great fun for active people of all ages. The rules of Zarnitsa are based on the classic capture the flag concept. Two teams each have a "base area" with a flag contained within, concealed or otherwise. Each team's goal is to protect their own flag and seize the other team's and bring it back to the base area. Players can walk, run, sneak, hide, create diversions and use any means short of physical violence to achieve their objectives. What makes Zarnitsa different from classic CTF is simply this: every player has two velcro-attached shoulder straps that serve as health indicators and can be torn off by the opponents. Losing one indicates "wounded", losing two indicates "dead". The "wounded" players cannot run and should only walk. The "dead" players return to a respawn point or leave the game in some modes. Why are we doing this? Capture the flag is simply top fun and anyone who says otherwise is joking themselves. Zarnitsa's slightly elevated level of complexity should give us just that extra challenge needed to really make it interesting. That said, this is our first go with organising multiplayer sports games, so we'll see what the results are! As always comments, questions, suggestions and concerns are more than welcome - just contact an organiser. Sports games are a great way to get and stay active, meet new people, and break the monotony of everyday life under British capitalism. Let's get out there! For our first attempt at organising a little Zarnitsa league here in London, we'll hit up Hackney Marshes and Wick Woodland. We'll divide into two teams; each will receive coloured vests or other garments to which the health indicator strips are attached. Then we'll take up our places, count down from 60 seconds, and let the games begin! **Note: we'll want at least five people per team for this to really work right, so we'll cancel or reschedule if this one gets less than 9 RSVPs.** There's no limit to how big our group can be of course, so please do join us! Just be sure to either turn up on the day or change your RSVP if you can't make it in the end, just so we know what to expect. Take care and see you on the pitch!

**Uncover the past while building your future!** Join us for a relaxed, culture-infused afternoon at the British Museum, designed specifically for history-loving singles aged 25–45. Skip the awkward speed-dating formats and loud bars. Instead, connect with like-minded people through fascinating stories, ancient mysteries, and natural conversation. conversation. *** 🕒 Event Details * **Date:** 📆 May 2026 * **Time:** 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Please arrive 10 minutes early) * **Age Range:** 25–45 * **Meeting Point:** Inside the Great Court (look for your host, Tahira, I will be wearing red flowers 🌺 dress and holding chocolates colour leather hand bag 💼 *** 🗺️ The Itinerary * **1:00 PM – Welcome Mixer:** We will gather in the Great Court to check in, do a quick icebreaker, and introduce ourselves. * **1:15 PM – The Egyptian Journey:** We will explore the monumental sculpture galleries, checking out the Rosetta Stone and discussing the incredible architecture and daily life of ancient Egypt. * **2:00 PM – The Greek Odyssey:** We will move into the Mediterranean world to marvel at the Parthenon Sculptures and chat about ancient philosophy, myths, and culture. * **2:45 PM – Wrap-up & Next Steps:** We will gather to exchange contact details with your new connections before finishing up at 3:00 PM. *** ✨ What to Expect * **Hosted Experience:** As your host, I will guide the group, keep the energy high, and provide fun conversation prompts so you never have to worry about awkward silences. * **No Pressure:** This is all about casual mingling. Whether you find a romantic spark or a new museum buddy, it is a guaranteed fun afternoon. * **Intellectual Sparks:** Share your thoughts on ancient history, travel, and culture with people who actually share your interests.

## **✨ 1 Hour at Bat & Ball Shuffleboard & Pizza – Stratford** Enjoy a lively game of shuffleboard, tuck into delicious stone‑baked pizza, and unwind in one of Stratford’s most vibrant social hangouts—perfect for an evening built around genuine connection and good vibes. **🎟️ Your Ticket Includes** * 🎯 **1 Hour of Shuffleboard** (group play, friendly competition, lots of laughs) * 🍕 **Two large slices of freshly stone‑baked pizza** (per person) **🌟 What to Expect** 🤝 Looking for a night out that blends new friendships with a dash of playful competition? **Bat & Ball Stratford** sets the perfect scene. Start with a fun, fast‑paced shuffleboard session, then relax with hot, stone‑baked pizza fresh from the oven. 🎉 Shuffleboard is one of the easiest and most social games around—no experience needed. It gets everyone talking, laughing, and bonding naturally, even if you’ve only just met. 💘 Are you single? You never know—maybe you’ll meet someone special. Many singles attend our events, and the atmosphere is always warm, open, and welcoming. 🇬🇷 This event is hosted by the **Greece & Cyprus Meetup Group**, so you’ll meet plenty of Greek speakers—but everyone is welcome. All nationalities, all backgrounds, all vibes. 🛋️ We’ve secured a dedicated area for our group, giving you the perfect space to mingle, relax, and ease into the evening at your own pace. 🎈 There’s no age restriction—this is an inclusive social circle. Whether you’re in the mood to chat, laugh, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, you’re free to enjoy the night however you like. **Expect** * 💬 Meaningful conversations * 😂 Spontaneous laughter * 🤗 A warm, welcoming crowd * 🌍 A chance to expand your social circle naturally **🍸 Make the Most of Your Night** Bat & Ball offers: * 🍹 Great cocktails * 🍺 Craft beers * 🍕 A full food menu * 🎱 Extra games (ping pong, pool, darts, more shuffleboard) Feel free to keep the fun going—challenge your new friends to a rematch or try out another game if you’re feeling competitive. This experience blends fun, flavour, and connection—ideal for meeting new people, celebrating with friends, going on a date, or simply treating yourself to something different. **⏰ Important Arrival Policy** 🚫 To ensure everyone enjoys their full shuffleboard session, **do not arrive later than 15:00**. Please plan your journey so you don’t miss out. **🪪 Important Entry Information** * 🆔 All guests must bring **valid photo ID** (Driver’s Licence, European ID, or Passport). * 💳 RSVP and advance payment are required. * 📝 Once your ticket is paid, your name is added to the guest list. * 🚪 No entry without a ticket—tickets are checked at the door. **📍 Finding Us** When you arrive, just ask the staff to direct you to **Panagiotis’s Events area**. We’ll be there to welcome you with a smile 😊 **📞 Contact** 📱 Call Panagiotis: **07508 502863** 📧 Email (tickets & inquiries): [greek_meetup@yahoo.com](mailto:greek_meetup@yahoo.com)

**Join Psyfer and Akme for a mind/body/art session.** Hatha flow with Psyfer at 11am. Please bring your own mat. Munk brunch at Ana's Deli from 12pm. Art club from 1:30pm with Akme exploring graffiti, memes and Bitcoin's visual language. Promotional activities related to shitcoins not permitted. No unsolicited photograhy. Peace and love.

SCIENTOLOGY **TOOLS** **FOR LIFE** What if you had simple tools which you could use to improve your relationship with others? What if a step-by-step procedure could help you achieve your goals in life? What if you could learn the secret to mastering any subject you wanted to master? Come and find out!

Meet up fee £7 to be paid at the beginning of the meet up. Card or cash payments. Meeting at Mikis Paradise Cafe. Please bring your favourite Tarot deck.

🟤 THE FIRST 10 TICKETS ARE **£4.50 ONLY** 🟢 REMAINING TICKETS ONLINE ARE **£9.50 ONLY** 🟣 TICKETS AT THE DOOR ARE **£15** **Click The Link Below To Buy Tickets**: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1984712086277](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1984712086277) In this workshop Ryan explains how conversations function, how to make them flow with brain training exercises that can be practiced to get sharper at conversations. This also helps conversations to be more engaging for everyone involved including yourself. 🟡 - Get rid of awkward silences in your conversations 🟤 - Make your conversations flow smoothly ⚪ - Make your conversations more engaging for everyone involved including yourself 🔴 - Indirectly benefit other areas of your social skills because if you’re not thinking about how to keep the 🟢 - conversation flowing you have more free thinking space to focus on other areas like humour or body language 🔴- Decrease your nervousness in social situations as often nervousness comes from not knowing what to say 🟣 - Brain training exercises designed to increase sharpness at this area of social skills 🟡 - A challenge at the end to bring everything from the workshop together Ryan has been coaching people social skills full time for over 10 years. As a quiet & shy person he wanted to work on his own social skills & after making huge improvements plus understanding how social situations work & how to improve he developed a process to help others for every area of social skills. He has helped thousands of people over the years to improve & now has a huge following including over 180000 followers on TikTok. More info on Ryan & Social Shortcuts can be found on the website [www.socialshortcuts.com](https://www.socialshortcuts.com) After workshops we spend time hanging out together, a great opportunity to practice the workshop content & make new friends. Plus Ryan is happy to answer any questions you want to ask one to one. 🟢After this, the next workshop is: **1\. How To Manage Emotions Workshop** Sun, May 24, 2026, 5:45 PM - IN LONDON **[Click to purchase ticket](https://eventbrite.com/e/1984712091292)**[ - eventbrite.com/e/1984712091292](https://eventbrite.com/e/1984712091292) In this workshop Ryan explains how emotions function, how to best manage your emotions to be in a more positive state without suppressing or hiding them including brain training exercises you can practice to increase sharpness in this area. Ryan also explains why managing emotions is the most important part of social skills & how it fits in. 🟡 - How emotions function 🟤 - How managing emotions is related to social skills ⚪ - How to decrease bad emotions 🔴 - How to increase good emotions 🟢 - What different emotions are there 🔴- How to change your perspective on any situation 🟣 - Brain training exercises designed to increase sharpness at this area of social skills 🟡 - A challenge at the end to bring everything from the workshop together In person workshops are at 40 Store St. - Store Street Espresso: London. For any questions feel free to contact Ryan or Gabriel. Please don't contact the other group organisers as they are not involved in running the event & won't be able to provide much help:
 ✉ **Ryan**: info@socialshortcuts.com
 ✉ **Gabriel**: gabrielsocialshortcuts@gmail.com **OTHER EVENTS LINED UP** 🟡 Developing Humor And Quick Thinking In Social Situations
 🟢 Persuasion Workshop
 🟤 How To Manage Emotions Workshop 5 minute documentary on our workshops - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rlbCYdeaws We have a score of 4.9 out 5 on Trustpilot - https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/socialshortcuts.com Our WhatsApp chat where we discuss social skill, give updates about our events & you can ask questions - [https://chat.whatsapp.com/H3mLsvkNJwpCcOELRX28nQ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H3mLsvkNJwpCcOELRX28nQ) For one to one coaching on social skills and also our free trial session - [ http://www.socialshortcuts.com We have over 180000 followers on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@socialshortcuts.com Our video courses - [https://social-shortcuts.teachable.com/p/conversation-course DISCLAIMER
This workshop is intended for educational and or entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any medical condition. **Follow us on the sites below also**:
 http://www.socialshortcuts.com
http://www.youtube.com/c/socialshortcuts
http://www.facebook.com/socialshortcutsofficial
http://www.Instagram.com/socialshortcuts 🟣 **Ken Robinson** 🟢 Up to a point you welcome being interrupted because it is only by interacting with others you get anything interesting done

Acoustic music, poetry and storytelling. Soul Fuel Sunday is a monthly gathering of poets, storytellers and songwriters held at Rosslyn Hill Unitarian Chapel. These intimate, unique evenings are not to be missed, offering audiences the rare opportunity to hear spoken word artists and songwriters perform completely unplugged, supported only by the natural acoustics of our gorgeous neo-Gothic Chapel walls. Each month, experience performances from musical artists interspersed with spoken word, storytelling, poetry and meditations, with singer-songwriter Russell Swallow. This is a donation based event. We are a registered charity. Suggested donation £5. Please give what you can.

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.

We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another. Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us. Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.

Who else is ready to sit outside? Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Grandview Grind! Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends!

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!

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.

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * There's a restroom along the route at [Tuttle Park Community Center](https://maps.app.goo.gl/KTZJgLE1CrrbRNmJ7), which is about two‑thirds of the way from [Clinton-Como Park](https://maps.app.goo.gl/z8Cx8evwLiWundMe8) to our [turnback point](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZXk7qUVszLQ8EJxHA). * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).