Metaphysics

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

Join us for an afternoon of chess in a fun and relaxed setting. Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome! Club boards are provided. Bring your own clocks or use Chess.com's Chess Clock app. We generally meet in the blue room, which is to your right after entering. If we're not in the blue room we're at the far left near the beer tanks in the back corner.

The long promised REIKI two training is now available. I will be providing an agenda in the very near future. This is a placeholder for those who are interested in taking the REIKI training class with me. The fee for this class will be donation based. Feel free to contribute what you feel you have gained from the course and the value of that knowledge. See you soon! Shaman Phil

**NEW MEMBERS or 1st TIME EVENT GO-ERS** Before attending your first event, please take a moment to understand how our dinners work and what we ask of members. → **[Learn how DC Metro Dining works](https://tinyurl.com/Landing-Page-DC-Metro-Dining)** **RSVP CUTOFF (i.e. Final Change Your Mind if Registered YES)** → **RSVP Cancellation Cutoff for this Event is Saturday 10a, 3/7**. (Late Cancel applies after this, repeat occurrences can impact membership) *** Let's revisit one of my favorite places for Spanish Tapas / small plates. We’re headed to **Boqueria Penn Quarter** in **DC** (Penn Quarter / Chinatown) **FOOD**: Boqueria serves Spanish tapas style food meant for sharing. Menu favorites in late 2025 and early 2026 include pan con tomate, patatas bravas, jamon serrano and cheese boards, Albondigas meatballs, blistered Pimientos de Padrón, and croquetas including jamón and mushroom varieties. The seafood paella and grilled octopus are dishes that many guests highlight. Dessert churros are a popular way to finish the meal. Guests also praise the red sangria and cocktails. Most members spend between 40 and 70 dollars for dinner and drinks. → **Explore Boqueria Penn Quarter's menu: [https://boqueriarestaurant.com/location/dc/penn-quarter/?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=gmb#tabs_desc_14193_2](https://boqueriarestaurant.com/location/dc/penn-quarter/?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=gmb#tabs_desc_14193_2)**. **SPACE**: Modern, energetic dining room with bar seating and closely set tables. Expect a lively Saturday crowd and moderate noise. → Visit the restaurant site: [https://boqueriarestaurant.com/location/dc/penn-quarter](https://boqueriarestaurant.com/location/dc/penn-quarter/?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=gmb) +++++++++ ==> Tax/Tip combo is our required 30% tax/tip policy (see the FAQs for more details). ==> Limited to 8 slots See you there! JoeN \*\*\* **CLOSEST METRO**: * **Gallery Place  / Chinatown** (Red Line, Green, Yellow) is the closest major stop. Exit onto 7th St NW, walk west toward 9th St NW, turn right on 9th St. The walk is about **6–8 minutes**. **Metro Center** (Red, Silver, Orange, Blue) is similarly close. Exit onto 12th St NW, walk south to F St NW, turn left to 9th St NW. Same **6–8 minutes**. * For directions using the Metro, try using the Plan a Trip feature at the WMATA website ([click on your preferred Metro station](https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/index.cfm) then at the Station page level click "Plan a Trip". **PARKING**: **Colonial Parking** is the closest and has a discount: [https://www.ecolonial.com/locations/boqueria-parking/](https://www.ecolonial.com/locations/boqueria-parking/) (ensure to use discount code BoqPark). There's not a lack of garages within a few blocks however. Street parking can be limited, especially on weekend evening. *** ***Attendance Notes:*** * **If you RSVP “YES,” please commit to showing up**. With 5,800+ members and limited seating, we can’t afford no-shows. It’s not fair to other members or to our relationship with the restaurant. * **No-Show / Late Cancel rules apply** (see links below). * **Can’t get a slot?** Join the Waitlist and check back frequently—spots often open up before Noon on the day of the event. You may also receive midweek confirmation emails to reconfirm your RSVP, so please check your inbox. * **Billing Reminder**: Add 30% for tax and tip to your food and drink total. This is part of our group’s expectations and helps smooth out service with the restaurant. * **New Members / 1st Timers**: [Visit our FAQs](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1C0GeZMWGwc1akHj63aViQ_5n1YpBqPt_/edit?usp=drivesdk&ouid=107783167750249492259&rtpof=true&sd=true) and [No-Show Policy](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BU0ZjQNdMwTjIkZVGlOlw8rTIia5xWhE/edit?usp=drivesdk&ouid=107783167750249492259&rtpof=true&sd=true) if you're unfamiliar with how we run things. Looking forward to dining with you! – JoeN

Pre-registration and Payment required: [https://www.wellnessliving.com/rs/event/teal_center?k_class=919488](https://www.wellnessliving.com/rs/event/teal_center?k_class=919488) **Awaken the sacred within. Reclaim your soul’s truth.** Beneath all the noise, the patterns, and the pain, your soul has never stopped whispering. It holds the memory of every choice, every wound, every triumph across time. This vibrational archive—your Akashic Records—awaits you. And within them: clarity, healing, and a return to the Divine spark of who you truly are. Let’s take a breath and reflect… \~Have you been feeling like you're moving through life in a loop—taking one step forward, only to be pulled back again and again? \~Does life feel like an ongoing storm of confusion, struggle, or emotional unrest? \~Do you long for heartfelt, soul-level connection—but feel it remains just out of reach? \~Are you living the life your heart calls you to…or the one others expect? **If you’ve felt this, take comfort: you are not broken. You are awakening. You’ve been guided to this moment for a reason. Your soul knows it's time to return home to your truth.** **\*\*Welcome to the Akashic Records\*\* a timeless sanctuary of compassion, wisdom, and love.** In this deeply healing workshop, you're invited not just to explore your story—but to rewrite its energetic imprint. Guided by the compassionate presence of **Bill Sanda**, you'll step into a space where healing is not only possible, but inevitable—when met with an open heart. This isn’t just another offering. This is a soul-remembrance. During our time together, you will: ✨ **Uncover the hidden patterns of your past**, including the emotional echoes, ancestral threads, and past-life imprints that continue to influence your present reality ✨ **Liberate yourself from repetitive cycles** of fear, doubt, or stagnation, so you can move forward in alignment with your soul’s highest expression ✨ **Receive healing directly from your Akashic Records**, reconnecting to your innate wisdom and Divine blueprint ✨ **Remember who you are beyond this lifetime**, as insights from past incarnations help you navigate your current path with grace ✨ **Experience the sacred sound of Light Language**—a celestial, soul-coded vibration that speaks beyond the mind, clearing density, activating remembrance, and harmonizing your energy at the DNA level Bill’s sacred gift of channeling the Akashic Records—woven together with the high-frequency transmission of Light Language—creates a multidimensional space for profound transformation. You’ll also receive personal attention during the workshop through mini-healing sessions, and we'll culminate in a group integration, inviting a collective shift in vibration and consciousness. Pre-registration and Payment required: [https://www.wellnessliving.com/rs/event/teal_center?k_class=919488](https://www.wellnessliving.com/rs/event/teal_center?k_class=919488) **Here’s what others have shared about their experience:** *“Bill is exceptionally gifted… It seemed that everyone had erased years... looking so much younger and so much more relaxed and at peace than before the session. The shift happening for each person was actually physically visible.”* — *Cindy W.* *“Finally, I understand what has been causing the sabotaging behaviors. Two days later, I’m clearer and more spiritually connected than I’ve ever been. Thank you, Bill, for your healing gifts.”* — *Wendy W.* ***About Bill Sanda*** *A lifelong seeker and heart-led healer, **Bill Sanda** walks with humility, clarity, and deep reverence for the sacred. His journey has led him to study with some of today’s most respected spiritual masters, but it was through divine revelation that his ability to work within the Akashic Records and transmit Light Language fully emerged.* *Bill now offers this work as a gift of service—to support others in awakening to their truth, releasing what no longer serves, and remembering the wholeness that has always been within. His mission is simple and powerful: to support your healing on all levels—**emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual**—so you can live more aligned, more free, and more fully alive.* **Investment: $75** Pre-registration and Payment required: [https://www.wellnessliving.com/rs/event/teal_center?k_class=919488](https://www.wellnessliving.com/rs/event/teal_center?k_class=919488)

“Metaphysical Mugs and Muffins” is meeting in a new location at Rising Phoenix in Manassas on Saturdays! Are you feeling a little isolated or just want to meet some new people? In spite of these unusual times, you’re invited to meet us in person, if you feel comfortable being with others. Meet others who like to talk about lots of metaphysical subjects. If you’re just curious, we are a great resource to learn about anything you might be interested in. We have a positive attitude, and we like to brighten and raise the energy of the earth to help people feel more comfortable in these changing times. Stop by and join us for this fun, light-hearted and popular event, hosted by Rising Phoenix and co-hosted by Jacqui and Mary Jo. Share what you’re passionate about. Ask questions. Discover something new. Make a new friend. Laugh. A lot. No specific topic. Bring any books, oracle cards, crystals, etc. you would like to share. Or just bring your beautiful self. Bring your coffee, a latte, a muffin or a snack. We love meeting new people and hope to see you soon! Location: Rising Phoenix Day: Starting Saturday, September 12, 2020 Time: 11:00-?? a.m. Cost: FREE, but a love donation is appreciated! We also have Tuesday evening meetings from 6:30-8:30. They are also free(love donation) For these meetings, we do have an interesting topic each week that we share and talk about. Topics can be shared by everyone who would like to talk about something they are interested in.

**Bringing presence to the moments that matter most!** Life moves fast and it’s easy to live on autopilot. This uplifting, practical workshop invites participants from all backgrounds to explore how mindfulness can bring greater calm, clarity, and connection into everyday life. We’ll explore how to be more present in daily routines, communicate with more intention in relationships, and respond to stress with steadiness instead of reactivity. Whether you’re new to mindfulness or looking to deepen your practice, you’ll leave with tools you can use immediately, at home, at work, and in the moments in between. **Key Takeaways:** o Simple mindfulness practices for real-life situations (work, home, commuting, conversations) o Greater emotional balance, resilience, and self-awareness o Increased clarity and focus for everyday decision-making o Supportive habits that strengthen mindful living over time o A deeper sense of inner peace and connection with yourself and others Saturday, March 7th, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM. Held at the Meditation Museum, 9525 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/QEBc1](https://shorturl.at/QEBc1) | | | --- | |

Title: What Is Space Density? From Medium Ontology to the Spacetime Constant K Date: March 8 2026 10:00 am - Noon EDT Abstract: Spacetime plays an active role in gravity, wave propagation, and quantum behavior, yet physics rarely treats it as a physical medium with intrinsic properties such as density or inertia. This missing layer creates a major conceptual gap—especially when interpreting large-scale gravitational anomalies that are often attributed to dark matter. In this talk, Lynn will propose a clear conceptual framework for what it means for spacetime itself to possess a density-like property, and Lynn will explain why Unified Field Theory (UFT) naturally encodes this property through the constant K, called the spacetime background inertial intensity constant. Lynn will introduce a space-density constant μₛ as a universal property of space itself—independent of matter, energy density, or gravitational sourcing. However, μₛ cannot be inserted directly into field equations, because it belongs to the ontological level: it describes what space is, not how spacetime responds. To influence dynamics, μₛ must be expressed geometrically. This leads naturally to K, which carries the same physical meaning but operates at the level required by geometric field dynamics. This is a change in representation—not the addition of new physics. This approach provides an alternative way to interpret dark-matter-like effects. Instead of requiring unseen particles, gravitational anomalies can be viewed as consequences of spacetime’s intrinsic rigidity and its global, cumulative response in large coherent systems such as disk galaxies. In local, weak-field environments, standard Newtonian and relativistic gravity remains an effective approximation. The goal of the talk is not to present a final empirical model, but to clarify the physical meaning of spacetime constants and open discussion between UFT and mainstream theoretical physics. Keywords: Spacetime ontology; space density; intrinsic spacetime properties; Unified Field Theory (UFT); spacetime background constant K; geometric response; gravitational coupling; dark-matter-like phenomena Brief Biography Lynn Lou Beran is a Senior IT Security Analyst and an author, translator, and editor working at the intersection of science, engineering, and communication. She translated and edited multiple editions of Zhang XiangQian’s Unified Field Theory and co-authored recent manuscripts developing a geometric, motion-based view of physical reality. Lynn’s broader work focuses on making advanced ideas accessible without sacrificing rigor, and on connecting conceptual insight to testable predictions and practical tools.

Join us for conversations that go beyond small talk, diving into topics like the shifting nature of spirituality, the challenges and joys of midlife transitions, the impact of culture and capitalism, and the search for meaning in art, travel, and daily life. Our gatherings are about genuine, thought-provoking dialogue, with no set leader or strict agenda—just an open space to share ideas, perspectives, and experiences that matter to us. The direction of the discussion is shaped by everyone who shows up, making each event unique and enriching. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others who are also seeking deeper conversations. Let the conversation flow from topic to topic. Optional questions are listed below.
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Optional Questions: Life Stages & Transitions
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1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging?
2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists?
3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about?
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Optional Questions: Identity After the Roles
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4. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you?
5. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed?
6. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted?
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Optional Questions: AI & Being Human
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7. What human experiences will AI never truly understand?
8. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do?
9. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated?
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Optional Questions: Belief & Meaning
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10. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space?
11. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live?
12. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self?
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Optional Questions: The Modern Psyche
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13. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have?
14. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire?
15. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept?
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Optional Questions: Work & Purpose
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16. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you?
17. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors?
18. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years?
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Optional Questions: Relationships & Connection
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19. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why?
20. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best?
21. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others?
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Optional Questions: Time & Mortality
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22. What are you running out of time to say or do?
23. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite?
24. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail?
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Optional Questions: Society & Culture
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25. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense?
26. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing?
27. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years?
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Optional Questions: Personal Philosophy
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28. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way?
29. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out
30. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

**Join us in Falls Church for conversations that go beyond small talk.** Higher Grounds – Falls Church is where this growing network of gatherings began: a space for thoughtful, authentic dialogue about what matters most. Whether we’re exploring the nature of happiness, the challenges and possibilities of midlife, spirituality, culture, capitalism, parenting, or the role of art and travel in a meaningful life, every conversation is shaped by the people in the room. There’s no set leader or rigid agenda—just a shared commitment to listen as much as we speak. We start with brief introductions focused on what makes you *you* (not your LinkedIn bio), then dive straight into whatever is on people’s minds. The direction of each meetup emerges organically, making every event unique. MANDATORY: PLEASE REVIEW OUR COMMUNITY GUIDELINES IN THE GROUP DESCRIPTION. Everyone is expected to engage in respectful conversations and listen deeply as well as share. We have a zero tolerance policy of sexual harassment and hate speech. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others in Falls Church who are also seeking deeper conversations. **Suggested Questions: Life Stages & Transitions** 1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging? 2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists? 3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about? **Suggested Questions: Identity After the Roles** 1. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you? 2. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed? 3. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted? **Suggested Questions: AI & Being Human** 1. What human experiences will AI never truly understand? 2. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do? 3. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated? **Suggested Questions: Belief & Meaning** 1. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space? 2. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live? 3. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self? **Suggested Questions: The Modern Psyche** 1. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have? 2. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire? 3. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept? **Suggested Questions: Work & Purpose** 1. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you? 2. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors? 3. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years? **Suggested Questions: Relationships & Connection** 1. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why? 2. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best? 3. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others? **Suggested Questions: Time & Mortality** 1. What are you running out of time to say or do? 2. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite? 3. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail? **Suggested Questions: Society & Culture** 1. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense? 2. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing? 3. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years? **Suggested Questions: Personal Philosophy** 1. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way? 2. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out 3. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

PLEASE CHECK THE ONLINE MEDITATION CALENDAR FOR DETAILS OF THESE MORE THAN 50 SERVICES A WEEK- https://onlinemeditation.yogananda.org/calendar/

**As divine, immortal Soul, we have an inborn connection to the Creator. This unbreakable bond of love, support, and guidance can allow us to live life productively, joyfully, and adventurously. However, it can be challenging to remember and use our gift of spiritual communication. Singing HU – a sacred sound and ancient mantra – can help us recognize, strengthen, and consciously maintain this deep connection.** **During a lively, interactive session, we’ll explore how HU, the Sound behind all sounds, can:** **• Fill us with peace and re-ignite our dreams.** **• Help us face challenging situations with confidence.** **• Bring more love into our life now.** **We look forward to seeing you then. If you wish, you can download a free ebooklet about the HU at: www.eckankar.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/HU Your-Key-to-Spir-Living_ebooklet.pdf** **A flyer for this event is available for you at:** **https://eck-va.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Poster-for-March-8th-2026-HU Key-to-Spiritual-Living-Rev-1.pdf**

**Real connection with fellow Catholics who are eager to grow in Faith and friendship!** This 3 year--- 45min deep dive into the Catholic faith is a great way to spend your Sunday rest day. When you are ready to dig deeper and live the faith more fully this is an optimal opportunity. Talk yourself into this! You may start whenever and can come as often or as little as you desire. Coffee is served w/ small donation. It is taught by the priest and/or OCIA director at St Louis Parish who are ALL fabulous- faithful educators filled with theologically inspired knowledge. You can ask questions at the end, which I love. It is just a wonderful experience to grow. Afterwards if you wish, you can also find your way over to the Little Way Cafe Coffee shop across the parking lot to stay for more community time or read some of the excellent books that line the shelves throughout. If you are new to the community of Alexandria and want to meet like minded folks or a veteran of it, this is a special and unique opportunity and did I mention it is free? :) Hard to believe! Please join me every Sunday at 945 am.

**We will honor the Mahasamadhi of Guru Paramahansa Yogananda ji on March 7 starting at 7:30 pm with an in-person service with chanting and meditation.**

Meeting Room 2b, Main Library 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. We desirere to cultivate a space where all questions are welcome and all members are treated with compassion and respect. All backgrounds are welcome.

We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews). The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.

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

We are excited to host Guided Meditations on Sundays at 6 pm in our Ashram/Gallery/Home! !! !! Everyone wants to know what kind of God we worship and what kind of meditation we do. We worship the GOD that LOVES US! We understand that god is an energy and it lives in us as us. Our meditations guide others to actually experience that energy! xoxo We don't just talk about peace, love and affection, we experience it :) Also we are a home not a business, so we enjoy building community one friend at a time. We always build in time for people to mingle & develop friendships! xoxo Much Love, Frank Tennyson Namaste, Frank Tennyson http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/f/9/9/600_447824953.jpeg

**History** [Slate Run Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/slate-run/), located south of Canal Winchester in Pickaway County, has roots tracing back to the early planning efforts of the Columbus and Franklin County Metropolitan Park District. In 1963, Metro Parks officials identified the land along Slate Run as having strong potential for a large metropolitan park due to its expansive acreage, diverse habitats, and natural features like the stream that gave the area its name. The largest stream in the vicinity, Slate Run, flows south to northwest through a ridge, providing a logical basis for the park's designation. Between 1964 and 1968, Metro Parks acquired approximately 1,662 acres through multiple parcels, including a key 212-acre farmstead that had been continuously operated since 1805. This acquisition phase positioned Slate Run as a future major addition to the system, following the openings of other parks like Sharon Woods in 1968 and Highbanks in 1973. The park officially opened to the public in 1981, marking it as the sixth Metro Park in the district and, at the time, the largest with its substantial land holdings. From the outset, Metro Parks envisioned incorporating a living historical farm to educate visitors about 19th-century Ohio agriculture. The focal 212-acre parcel, purchased from the White family heirs in 1964, included historic structures that made it ideal for this purpose. The park's development preserved natural areas such as grasslands, wetlands, meadows, and forests while integrating interpretive elements. Upon opening, Slate Run quickly became a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Central to the park's identity is the Slate Run Living Historical Farm, which interprets life on a typical Ohio farm in the 1880s. The gothic revival farmhouse on the site was constructed in 1856 by owner Isaac Fridley and later restored by Metro Parks for historical accuracy. Visitors can explore interiors like the living room, parlor, and kitchen, where interpreters demonstrate period activities. The multi-bay barn, built in 1881 by Samuel Oman (the fourth owner), was meticulously restored with help from Amish carpenters. Heirloom animals such as Percheron horses, pigs, geese, and turkeys inhabit the farm, enhancing the immersive experience. The historical farmstead reflects a long lineage of ownership and agricultural use dating back to the early 19th century. Continuous farming on the land since 1805 made the site authentic for recreating late-19th-century practices, including grain harvesting and animal husbandry. Metro Parks focused on authenticity by restoring original buildings and introducing period-appropriate methods, such as horse-powered threshing machines from the late 1880s. The farm operates with volunteers and staff in period attire to portray daily rural life. This educational component has drawn school groups and families for decades. Today, Slate Run Metro Park spans about 1,705 acres and attracts roughly 250,000 visitors annually for its blend of natural preservation and historical interpretation. The park maintains diverse habitats supporting wildlife like nesting sandhill cranes and reintroduced northern bobwhite quail. Trails and open spaces offer opportunities for hiking and observation amid the preserved landscapes. The Living Historical Farm remains a crown jewel, continuing to teach about Ohio's agricultural heritage. Ongoing programs and restorations ensure the site's relevance for future generations. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Slate Run](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/SLR-parkmap@2x.gif). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Five Oaks, Sugar Maple, Covered Bridge, Shagbark, and Lake Trails. This will be around 4.5 to 5 miles. While Slate Run is moderately strenuous in a few places, it's generally a good place to hike and doesn't seem to wear people out. Some spots on the hike are unshaded, though, so be prepared for the possibility of some sun. I find Slate Run to be very underappreciated for the quality of its hiking. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet at the [Shady Grove Picnic Area](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B045'30.1%22N+82%C2%B050'13.2%22W/@39.758347,-82.83701,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.758347!4d-82.83701?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). You can use the map pin I've provided here; it's accurate. There's a latrine at Shady Grove, but there is no running water (no water fountains). We will pass a water fountain when we get to the Buzzard's Roost Picnic Area, although I can't guarantee this fountain won't be off for the winter. I'd recommend bringing some water just in case, at least for after the hike. I'd also recommend [hiking shoes](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D972KN3W) for this park. **After the Hike** Once we're finished at Slate Run, we'll head over to [Loose Rail Brewing](https://looserailbrewing.com/) for [drinks](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-drink-menu) and [food](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-food-menu). The brewery's actual address is [37 W Waterloo St, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/37+W+Waterloo+St,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/@39.8432511,-82.8071032,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88387be3ac496d83:0x23e8ee9d9391dd6b!8m2!3d39.8432511!4d-82.8071032!16s%2Fg%2F11cp8n8x1j?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's about 10-12 minutes from Slate Run. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.