Metaphysics

Please join us this Sunday as we discuss nation, identity and Australia Day. We will meet at the Captain Melville, 34 Franklin Street in Melbourne CBD, at 2pm for a 2:15pm start sharp. There is no pre-requisite preparation necessary, nor a philosophical background, all that is required is a curious mind. These discussions are both a Socrates Cafe style discussion and lively metaphysical dojo, in the spirit of learning and friendly debate, so please feel free to challenge assumptions and be prepared to have your own assumptions challenged. Glen will be leading the discussion this week. We have started to split into two tables to discuss as we have had increased numbers lately, and are looking for regular attendees who would be comfortable leading the discussion on the second table to put their hand up. Find below some questions to consider, however these are free-ranging events and the below serve as a springboard for the discussion. Some points and questions to consider * What is a nation? * Is national identity something we inherit or something we choose? How does one come to belong to a nation? What are the benefits and costs of belonging to a nation? * What role should historical truth play in national rituals? * What obligations do present generations have to past injustices? * Do all nations tell simplified myths about themselves? * What does Australia Day actually commemorate? * What does Australia Day mean to different groups of people? Are there other countries with similar issues? * How might recent migrants relate to debates around national identity and to Australia Day? * Would you make changes to how Australia Day is currently celebrated?

We had to reschedule the Explore Bendigo for the day on Saturday due to extreme heat. Given Sunday will be a cooler and hopefully a windy day, let's explore St Kilda beach to try and capture scenes in this rather lively place. If we are lucky, we may be able to capture some highly skilled kite surfers near the St Kilda pier. This will be a very casual event for the day. If you have a zoom lens, it might be a great opportunity for you to capture those surfers in action. Otherwise, get your other lenses out to capture street photography at the beach. Draft Schedule 4.00pm - Meet in front of Luna Park - Welcome and introduction 4.15pm - Head towards St Kilda Pier to explore the area in your own time. 6.15pm - Regroup in front of Luna Park 6.30pm - Dinner at Iddy Biddy Bar 35/39 Blessington St, St Kilda 7.45pm - Optional to join us for Sunset Photography (location TBA) 8.30pm - Event ends

Please join us this Sunday as we discuss nation, identity and Australia Day. We will meet at the Captain Melville, 34 Franklin Street in Melbourne CBD, at 2pm for a 2:15pm start sharp. There is no pre-requisite preparation necessary, nor a philosophical background, all that is required is a curious mind. These discussions are both a Socrates Cafe style discussion and lively metaphysical dojo, in the spirit of learning and friendly debate, so please feel free to challenge assumptions and be prepared to have your own assumptions challenged. Glen will be leading the discussion this week. We have started to split into two tables to discuss as we have had increased numbers lately, and are looking for regular attendees who would be comfortable leading the discussion on the second table to put their hand up. Find below some questions to consider, however these are free-ranging events and the below serve as a springboard for the discussion. Some points and questions to consider * What is a nation? * Is national identity something we inherit or something we choose? How does one come to belong to a nation? What are the benefits and costs of belonging to a nation? * What role should historical truth play in national rituals? * What obligations do present generations have to past injustices? * Do all nations tell simplified myths about themselves? * What does Australia Day actually commemorate? * What does Australia Day mean to different groups of people? Are there other countries with similar issues? * How might recent migrants relate to debates around national identity and to Australia Day? * Would you make changes to how Australia Day is currently celebrated?

**No pressure, no plan—just new friends** ✨ Whether you’re visiting Melbourne for the first time, recently relocated, or simply love connecting with curious people, this weekly meetup is the perfect way to share stories, make friends, and go explore, as a group, the magic that Melbourne has to offer 🇦🇺 **What to expect?** • **Casual & hostless**: no formal host, no schedule: just show up, be yourself, meet fellow solo travellers & expats and decide as a group where you feel like going • **Central meeting point**: it is surrounded by cultural landmarks, cafes, and restaurants, making it a convenient and safe starting point. • **Open to everyone**: whether you are a local, an expat or just passing through for a few days, you are welcome to join. (English is the primary language, but feel free to switch of course) **How to talk with strangers?** (and create meaningful connections) To help you get started, I curated a little game of **[ridiculously good questions](https://www.pierrebonvalot.com/theblog?p=285a9711d7df80d5ac25dd4ef8fe5394&pm=c)** you can ask to break the ice, shift the conversation from dull to intriguing and fun, and eventually create meaningful connection quickly. I hope this helps! **The only things you need to do are…** • Leave a message in the comment section to let the others know that you will actually be there (I don’t want you to end up alone there :) • If you can’t make it anymore, no problem! But please update your RSVP to let the others know • Please be gentle and patient with each other. We all want to make good friends here. **Why join?** • Meet open-minded travellers and locals who are keen to connect, learn and have fun together. • Experience Melbourne... as a group. • Be part of a global community that celebrates solo travelling and meaningful connections between foreign and locals. **How does it works?** 1\. Arrive at the meeting spot at the scheduled time\. 2\. Look for other joiners—friendly faces and curious explorers\. 3\. Introduce yourself\, connect with others\, and decide as a group where to go\. **When & where?** • Day: every Sunday • Time: 4:00 PM (meetup sometimes displays a different time zone: but it’s always 4pm local time) • Location: in front of the Dolphin Fountain (inside Fitzroy Gardens) **Hostless**: I am setting up the event for you all to meet, but I won't be there myself this time :) **Hi my names is Pierre** I created this Meetup group because I want to see more human connection happen in the real world. I feel many of us want this, but don't exactly know how to go about it. I hope this helps a little bit. I also work as a transformational coach: I help people who feel stuck in their life to reconnect with themselves, create real change and ultimately live more fulfilling lives. 🔗 bento.me/pierrebonvalot

Turn Anxiety into Happiness! Become your natural self again. Discover the drug-free way to a healthy mind. This educational talk is based on the book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health by New York Times bestseller author L. Ron Hubbard. Dianetics is an exact science of the mind. In this educational talk you will learn about the hidden source of all irrational thoughts and behavior as well as unwanted emotions (anxiety, fear, suppression, and apathy) and how to handle them forever. Free entry and free parking. Please send messages to host if you have any question.

We are so back! After almost 1 full year of unimelb sport centre being under repair and renovation, we are so excited to announce that our Sunday 1-4PM open play is back on! **[[WHAT]]** This session is for social volleyball games where there will be 3 teams of 6 per court across 3 courts. Please arrive on time as there will warm-up time provided for 20-25 minutes at 1 PM while the hosts set up the nets. Games will be played to 15 points, teams will queue in and fill into the next game where possible after playing 2 games in a row. **[[WHO]]** The session is intended for social volleyball players at the intermediate level. Players should: * Understand basic volleyball rules (3 touches, foot faults, etc.) * Call for the ball when playing and communicate well * Ready to learn (or already know) 5-1 system * Efficient in passing/hitting/setting/serving * Have minimal unforced errors (missed serves, etc..) * Have control over their play around the net and centre line If you are uncomfortable with the base fundamentals, we recommend coming to our beginner training sessions on Friday 6-9PM or Saturday 2-5PM. **[[HOW MUCH]]** $21 card payment will be collected on the day via square (EFTPOS) payment. Payments will be collected prior to game play during warm up. **[[WHEN]]** Sunday afternoon from 1 PM- 4 PM. However, feel free to come early and stretch as Unimelb Sport is open earlier. **Last minute dropouts and no-shows will have a zero-tolerance policy going forward.** All players are expected to update their RSVP at least 24 hours in advance if they are unable to attend. This applies to players on the going list and the waitlist. **[[THINGS TO BRING]]** We ask that you bring * Water bottle * Appropriate footwear for indoor court shoes - netball shoes, volleyball shoes, or basketball shoes would be suitable. * Wear contacts or sports glasses **[[OTHER DETAILS]]** Only those on the “going” list are permitted to play. If you are on the waitlist, or not registered at all, you will not be permitted to play.

🌟 **A new one-on-one, personality-based connection experience** Many of you have been asking about structured events and if I’d ever bring them back. Well… here it is - a new version, more intentional, and built around something I care about : **matching people based on personality.** Over the years, I’ve seen how hard it can be to find people you truly click with as adults. Small talk goes nowhere, and most events don’t give you the space for real conversation. 💫 **What to Expect** This is not speed dating, and it’s not a big mixer. It’s a curated, one-on-one connection experience where you’ll meet a few people who’ve been matched to you based on personality and vibe. Expect: * A cosy, comfortable venue * A hosted structure so you’re never left awkwardly standing around * A series of guided one-on-one conversations * A relaxed atmosphere where you can genuinely be yourself * This is not dating focused event, there will be a seperate one for dating Each conversation is designed to feel natural — because the match is based on compatibility Get your tickets here - https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/find-your-personality-match-meet-people-make-friends-tickets-1979581442383?aff=oddtdtcreator 🧭 **Before the Event** Once you get your Eventbrite ticket, you’ll receive a **short personality test (If you have already taken the test at a previous event you don't need to do it again)**. It takes only a few minutes but helps us understand your communication style, energy, and compatibility factors. This is how we curate meaningful one-on-one pairings for the event. 🌿 **Come Join Us** If you’re tired of small talk and ready to meet people who truly fit your personality, this is for you. A warm, intentional space created for deeper conversations and genuine chemistry - whether it becomes friendship, something romantic, or just a surprisingly great chat. RSVP now — spots are kept limited to ensure quality one-on-one time.

Melbourne Central Food Hall on Level 2. Far back corner near large windows to outside. Look for the colourful piano! See below for exact instructions on finding us. IMPORTANT: Please turn up if you RSVP. Other writers are counting on you being there with them so no one sits alone!!! Currently we have part-time hosts and regulars who will turn up and sit together. EVERYONE, please keep a look out for newly arriving people in the group and make them feel welcome, especially if they say: Are you with the writing group? If you arrive first and have an A4 piece of paper, it is a good idea to write on the paper: Writing Group. This way everyone will find each other. Bring your writing tools, and anything that you have written recently (optional). Remember your earphones if you like to listen to music while you write. There are no rules :) You can write. Or you can chat and write. You can share your work. Or not share your work. (If you need silence to concentrate then headphones are a good idea considering it is in a public space.) Bring pen and paper as a backup. Melbourne Central wifi available. Who: People who write and/or want to write (more) What: An open group of writers who meetup in a stimulating space to write together, share writing and ideas and support each other’s writing goals Why: Inspiration, motivation and space to write. Where: Melbourne Central - see photo for our location. Red shaded area would be ideal if available when you arrive. Detailed instructions if you do not know the area: 1) Go to the Shot Tower (the old building inside Melbourne Central with the big cone glass roof above it). 2) Go up the the escalators (there’s only one set of up- escalators near the Shot Tower, you can’t miss it). 3) You are now on level 2, Dining Hall (there are signs to the right, just slightly, stating this). 4) Top Juice store is to your right. Turn right so you pass Top Juice and walk toward the food hall. 5) You are now in the food hall near a black piano. Go past this. Go to the seating at the far back corner where there are large windows facing outside. 6) Look for us writers. There should be a sign on the table. Call out your hosts name and ask if this is the writing group. We will say YES, here we are! Additional hosts wanted!!! Please contact Mat Clarke. Please only RSVP if you can make it. And also un-RSVP if you need to cancel. Thank You, Melbourne Writers. Great Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelbWriters What we have written so far: www.worldwriterscollective.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/MelbCityWriters Blog: http://melbournewriters.wordpress.com **Help us by adding to these social pages and site**

For many First Nations People Jan 26th is a day of mourning. I am Aboriginal and will be attending this Mourning Ceremony, feel free to join me. 🖤💛❤️ — 🎟️ This event is free but requires a ticket, the link is below. — ✏️ Bring your sketchbook along if you feel like sketching. I will bring mine. — ☕️ Drinks will be available but they request you bring your own reusable cup. ——————————————————— Join Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Elder Uncle Bill Nicholson for the January 26th Mourning Ceremony: Healing, Resilience and Survival. January 26th is a day of grief for many First Peoples, as it marks the beginning of dispossession and ongoing impacts of colonisation. In 2017, Merri-bek City Council chose to no longer refer to January 26th as Australia Day and supports calls for a new day that brings people together. This ceremony is a time to reflect on resilience and survival, to listen and learn, and to stand together for truth-telling, justice and Treaty. Light refreshments will be provided at 9am. ——————
This event is proudly presented by Merri-bek City Council on the unceded land of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples. Merri-bek pays our respect to Elders past, present and acknowledges that sovereignty was never ceded. ———— This event is free but requires a ticket via this link - https://events.humanitix.com/26-january-2026-merri-bek-city-council-mourning-ceremony/tickets?utm_content=linkstream_stream&utm_source=storystream&fbclid=PAVERFWAPeWdBleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAafC0_xxH7gkNOfci-16kOKycRa7JvXrXWOn3bkf16yzGJfcC1B7lsM0QFtRkA_aem_XqemOFMXOv2OjTo63R8Uuw

(2024) by Christof Koch, 288 pages [Psychology] • Hardcover • Kindle • Audiobook • Library: https://fcplcat.fairfaxcounty.gov/search/title.aspx?ctx=1.1033.0.0.1&pos=1&cn=613100 Check the How To Find Us section for Zoom Link **(Remember, the Zoom Link is different each month, do not bookmark)** ### Review "A wonderful book."―Sam Harris, Making Sense with Sam Harris “a fun introduction to a number of debates… Mr. Koch’s book provokes questions… and counterarguments, but that’s what gives it life.” ―The Wall Street Journal “Easily the most current, thorough, and helpful exploration of consciousness available. Koch’s light, simple, yet authoritative writing style will appeal to general audiences as well as scientists and researchers. An essential, highly recommended purchase.”―Library Journal “magisterial… charming, sometimes beautiful, and almost always illuminating” ―Science Magazine “an impressive and sometimes exuberant work, showcasing decades of [Koch’s] research”―New Scientist “Koch’s adept use of analogies and entertaining anecdotes — complete with his own near-death experience and psychedelic drug trips — make the book a compelling and surprisingly light read.” ―Science News “undeniably compelling… a smoothly written must-read for anyone interested in a detailed introduction to the relationship between the brain, consciousness, and transformative experiences” ―Ars Technica “Expertly weaving in personal experience with science that few, if any, can speak more authoritatively about, Koch leads us on an amazing journey of consciousness—from birth to death. Deeply personal and infinitely digestible, Then I Am Myself the World is a remarkable must read for anyone interested in knowing their mind.”―Judson Brewer MD, PhD, New York Times–bestselling author of Unwinding Anxiety “Koch’s latest book brilliantly navigates the intricate landscape of our mind and our brain, offering insightful perspectives on the nature of conscious experiences, both ordinary as well as extraordinary ones.”―Hartmut Neven, founder and lead of Google’s quantum AI lab “Then I Am Myself the World is the new record of note for the scientific understanding of consciousness. This is an elegant tableau, a travelogue of subjective experience grounded in the latest neuroscience and philosophy traversing religion, science, and a life dedicated to the biggest questions. Filled with crystalline prose, lucid explanation, and revelatory honesty, this book will continue to be read centuries from now.”―Patrick House, author of Nineteen Ways of Looking at Consciousness “What would happen if a hardcore neuroscientist, with encyclopedic knowledge and four decades of experience in his field, were personally confronted with transformative mystical experiences carrying inevitable metaphysical implications? What would happen if the neuroscientist in question were open-minded, humble, but remained rigorously grounded in reason, evidence, and his hard-earned understanding of how consciousness relates to brain structures and function? What would he, the most preeminent professional of his generation, make of his extraordinary experiences? And what if, in addition, the neuroscientist was a modern renaissance man versed in physics, philosophy, the arts, the classics, and could pluck irresistibly evocative metaphors from the Western literary and artistic canon as if leisurely picking apples in early fall? This is what you will find in this treasured book, a whirlwind ride of insight after insight—so many they can’t possibly be all documented in footnotes—that will surprise and delight you from the get-go. ‘Primacy goes to consciousness, not to the objective world,’ he boldly states already on page two, in a prelude of things to come. ‘Everything else follows from there, including the realist assumption of the existence of objects, out ‘there,’ independent of my experiencing them.’ The book embodies the ever-evolving wisdom of a man whose intellectual prowess is only matched by his intellectual honesty. And this man, in the seventh decade of his scintillatingly productive life, has a lifetime of learning to share with you.”―Bernardo Kastrup, executive director, Essentia Foundation “Koch’s first book was entitled The Quest for Consciousness. And such has been Koch’s life, an adventurer’s pursuit of a distant goal, undeterred by the prevailing winds. The reader will learn where this quest has led and, like the author, will be enriched by it. Koch, one of the most accomplished scientists of our time, a mind singularly open to learning and changing, here opens his soul, revealing his vast, scintillating appreciation of nature in all its forms. It is a touching, profound book. Which is as it should be, since consciousness touches everything and is everything we touch.”―Giulio Tononi, University of Wisconsin-Madison ### About the Author Christof Koch is a neuroscientist at the Allen Institute and at the Tiny Blue Dot Foundation, the former president of the Allen Institute for Brain Science, and a former professor at the California Institute of Technology. Author of four previous titles, Koch writes regularly for a range of media, including Scientific American. He lives in the Pacific Northwest.

“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.

**Join globally respected cardiologist , Dr. Mohit Gupta, as we explore how our thoughts impact our physical health and overall well-being.** Our thoughts are far more powerful than we often realize. A single thought has the capacity to influence our emotions, shape our health, strengthen or strain our relationships, and quietly guide the course of our lives. The Power of One Thought is an insightful session that explores how conscious and intentional thinking impacts the brain, heart, and overall well-being. Through a thoughtful blend of scientific evidence and meditative practice, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how thought patterns influence stress, emotional resilience, mental clarity, and long-term health. In this session, Dr. Mohit Gupta seamlessly integrates modern neuroscience and cardiology with the wisdom of Raj Yoga meditation, offering practical insights into emotional regulation, cardiovascular health, and the slowing of biological aging. He uses his own life stories of Belief and Resilience. The experience is designed to be reflective, engaging, and immediately applicable to both personal and professional life. This session is ideal for individuals seeking inner clarity, emotional balance, and a deeper understanding of how one consciously chosen thought can create lasting transformation. **About Dr. Mohit Gupta** *Dr. Mohit Dayal Gupta, MD, DM, FACC, FRCP, is a globally respected interventional cardiologist and Director–Professor of Cardiology at GB Pant Hospital, New Delhi, and serves as Cardiologist to the Parliament of India. A four-time TEDx speaker, he has authored more than 150 peer-reviewed scientific publications and is a Fellow of leading international cardiology institutions.* *A distinguished clinician–scientist, Dr. Gupta’s current research focuses on the effects of Raj Yoga meditation on biological aging and cardiovascular resilience. Associated with the Brahma Kumaris since childhood, he is widely known for his rare ability to bridge cardiology, neuroscience, meditation, and spirituality, offering a compelling perspective on holistic health and conscious leadership.* Fri., Jan. 30th, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm. Held at Brahma Kumaris Center, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl, Suite 200, 2ndFloor, Chantilly, VA. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/wt8yd](https://shorturl.at/wt8yd)

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.

**Unlock Inner Peace and Power: Join Our Raja Yoga Intensive - Discover Meditation, Self-Realization, and Spiritual Wisdom!** Raja Yoga is an ancient system of meditation and spiritual understanding. It enables us to return to a state of inner peace, personal power and self-worth through re-kindling the soul's original qualities and virtues. At its deepest level, Raja Yoga Meditation is taught as a method of self-awareness, leading ultimately to self-realization. **This in person meditation course Includes:** * Thought Process Connecting to the Soul * Understanding the nature of the self and God (Supreme Soul). * The philosophy of karma and the cycle of time * The 8 Spiritual Powers **Advance Registration is Required** Class will meet on Monday – Friday for two weeks beginning on Monday, February 2nd – Friday, February 13th. Mon., Feb. 2nd, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm. Held at Brahma Kumaris Center, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl, Suite 200, 2nd Floor, Chantilly, VA. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/ZcRkE](https://shorturl.at/ZcRkE)

Whether you practice divination, ritual work or more craft related activities… this series of classes taught on two Sundays of each month will help you explore various aspects related to sharing your gifts in the physical and virtual marketplace. This week, we'll briefly review our previous class homework on Defining My Brand, then we’ll jump into this week’s class, on Marketing & Services through... * Building an online presence (website, social media, email list) * Sharing authentic content: tips, rituals, and insights * Designing promotional materials and visuals * Collaborating with other practitioners and local businesses * Hosting free events or sample readings to attract clients Newcomers are encouraged to attend, and individual virtual classes are available for those who may have missed a class along the way by contacting Papa Bones Moon. Cost: $25 / Please check-in & pay once you arrive at Sticks & Stones.

Dear all, This meditation session is for folks that have already attended the beginner and intermediate levels. Please confirm with your instructor before joining this session. We are having this mediation from 9-10am. Looking forward to meeting you in person and online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/7551126133?pwd=TmJVc3VnQlUvVU9qUzBPdU1SaWRqUT09 Directions : From Stoneridge on Rt 50 come past Rt 28, turn right on Sullyfield, it is on left past Westmorefield Dr. From Fair Oaks, take left on Sullyfield after crossing Walney and it is on Left after crossing Westmorefield