Open Minded

Circling is a present-moment relational awareness practice. We’re bringing our attention to what’s unfolding in real time, repeatedly returning to what’s happening within ourselves, between us and in the shared space of the group. We practice approaching our own experience and the experience of others with curiosity, becoming more aware of the subtleties of what is present. The emphasis is on staying in contact with your experience as it unfolds. The unfolding may be quiet and internal or it may lead to words – naming sensations, thoughts, emotions, impulses or perceptions. It might also include movement or other non-verbal expression. The idea is not to try to change what’s there, but to become more aware of what it is and how we are meeting it and relating to it in the moment. Often awareness follows expression and this is okay too. We are all swimming in the ocean of the unknown. Occasionally the whale lifts its head above the surface and we catch a glimpse – a moment of seeing something about ourselves that we hadn’t noticed before. Over time, many people find that this kind of awareness practice deepens their sense of aliveness and helps them notice patterns in how they relate to themselves and others. With ongoing practice, some people discover an increased capacity to be with themselves and others in a more conscious, grounded, flexible and responsive way – where we can experience ourselves as active participants in our lives rather than passive reactors to what is happening internally or around us. Both those new to Circling and those with more experience are very welcome. **To reserve your place, transfer £18 via my eventbrite page:** **[https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/robyn-wilford-29457876735](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/robyn-wilford-29457876735)** Any questions, please direct message me here or email: [robyncontact365@gmail.com](http://robyncontact365@gmail.com) We’ll start at 7pm (arrive from 6.50pm) and will finish at 9pm. There will be some optional hang out time after 9pm. Opposite Elephant & Castle tube and Thameslink train station, and numerous bus routes. **Facilitation and Terms of Service** This is a facilitated group practice but not group therapy and not psychotherapy. Because of my NARM background and own personal journey, I value personal choice, agency and emergent self-awareness. Participants are encouraged to stay connected to their own pace and to keep checking in with themselves throughout the practice – noticing what feels supportive, what feels like too much, and what they may need in any moment. There’s no expectation to be vulnerable or to share anything that feels too personal or emotional and you are always welcome to speak, remain silent, pause, step back and take a break, leave or ask for what you want, including asking for support. Participants are also invited to respect one another’s pace and boundaries. The intention of my Circling leadership is to support myself and people in staying present with their experience while in relationship with others, and to develop greater awareness of how they are meeting that experience. Having said that, like solo meditation, it’s normal that we will all repeatedly lose presence and Circling can sometimes evoke strong emotions or reactions in people which can be difficult for them and challenging for others in the space to navigate. If you find the prospect of this potentially destabilising or overwhelming, or if you are currently experiencing significant emotional distress or instability in your life that might be exacerbated by this type of group environment, or if you are unsure you’ll be able to take care of yourself and ensure the practice works for you, then please contact me before registering so we can discuss further. By registering you acknowledge that you have read and agree to the above.

Visitors fee is £10 per session. Bank transfer to: Vib Wataranan 02140973 04-00-04 Feather shuttles included. Please pay online at least 24 hours before the session starts, to avoid being removed. Club sessions take part in the large sports hall on 6 courts at: The King's Club, Woodhayes Road, Wimbledon Common, SW19 4RJ If you RSVP and don't pay, and don't turn up without marking yourself as not going, you will immediately be BLOCKED from attending future sessions for having wasted a space. Games are arranged using a peg board. There is plenty of street parking. For more details check out our website: www.penguinbadminton.co.uk Or visit our Facebook Page Or WhatsApp Vib on 07711 643 116

Come and join us at this popular Friday evening meditation class, at the School of Meditation in West London. Meditations are accompanied by short, profound spiritual readings and discussion, and no experience is required. A wonderful way to start your weekend....we hope to see you there!

From the futuristic domes of North Greenwich, where the river Thames bends and the popcorn smells are strongest, we’re gathering for an epic screening of **Time Hoppers: The Silk Road**. 🎬 **THE MISSION:** 🎞️ **Film:** Time Hoppers: The Silk Road (rated PG) ⏳ **Runtime:** 1 hour 43 mins 📍 **Location:** Cineworld London - The O2 (Greenwich) 🚇 **Nearest Tube Station**: North Greenwich (Jubilee line) ⌚ **The Meet:** 4:45pm (Outside the cinema entrance) 🎬 **Film Starts:** 5:00pm (Sharp) ✊ **Note:** Active Muslims is equally about focusing on the actual activity. In this case, this is a **highly disciplined cinematic operation**, not a nap in a dark room. It is advised to approach this event with the intention of peak relaxation and the purpose of extreme snack consumption. We expect a "paced" viewing—stay alert for the plot twists and keep the popcorn-to-mouth ratio consistent. ### 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 FAMILY & JUNIOR RECRUITS This event is specifically designed for the next generation! We want to see the **kids, nephews, and nieces** out in full force. Whether they are future time travelers or just there for the Slushies, bring them along to join the crew. ### 🎟️ TICKETS & LOGISTICS No group discounts this time **Price: £5.99 per person.** **[Booking: Please purchase your tickets for the 5:00pm](https://experience.cineworld.co.uk/select-tickets?sitecode=077&site=077&id=281082&lang=en)** showing on Friday, 17th April \**via the Cineworld website/app. Group Booking:* There is no group discount but we can try to ensure we have tickets in the event they may sell out before the date by ordering earlier. I can book earlier if you want me to book for you but it’s virtually impossible to ensure we can all sit in the same block! ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🚻**Facilities**: On-site restrooms available in the O2. 🕋 **Prayer**: There is a multi-faith prayer room located opposite the family room on Level 2 should you want to pray before/after the film (asr: 16:52 maghbrib: 20:05). 🎒 **What to bring:** Your "serious" cinema face, a fully charged phone, and enough energy to keep up with the kids. 🍉 **Food**: Cineworld have a strict no externally purchased hot food policy. Technically, you can bring your own snacks (although I would keep it subtle). 🥾 **Footwear:** Hiking boots are *not* recommended (unless you really want to), but comfy socks for those recliner seats are a win. ⛑️ **Disclaimer:** You are solely responsible for your own safety (and your kids' popcorn intake). You are also responsible for your belongings at all times. 🌐 **[@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims) / Active Mindset**

**Fri Badminton 7-9pm** **£11 for 2 hours \*24H ADVANCE PAYMENT REQUIRED\*** **6 courts in the Science Centre.** Feather shuttlecocks will be supplied. Please bring your own racquets. **Payment details:** **\*\*\*Please pay in advance upon booking or at least 24h in advance before the session. Unpaid bookings will be removed from the list.\*\*\*** \*\*NEW REVOLUT BANK ACCOUNT DETAILS\*\* **Name: LM BADMINTON LTD** **Account Number: 19226405** **Sort Code: 23-01-20** **Reference: \*Your Meetup Name & Date ie 270126\*** \*No cash\* Please use your profile name and date of session as payment reference, so that it can be identified. To ensure fair access to the session, anyone who signs up but does not make payment 24h in advance will have their places cancelled and offered to other players. **Waiting List Update:** When the event is full, there will be a waiting list for players to put their names on. Once a spot becomes available, i.e. another member cancels, the first person on the waiting list will be added to RSVP automatically. As such, the person will be sent an automated email confirming so. For those who do not wish to be added automatically, please remove your name from the waiting list. Please cancel waitlist 24 hours before the event if made other plans, as meetup will push you to attending list if spot opens up. We charge on spot basis. **Late Cancellations Penalty:** If you cancel with less than 24 hours notice it is your responsibility to liaise with those on the waiting list and find a replacement. If you do then no penalty but if you don’t find a replacement you pay 50% of the session fee, raising to 100% on the second late cancelation. You MUST also inform the organisers who your replacement is. **No Show Fees:** Full fee will be added to the profile on the next visit. **Team training:** On this session, 1 or 2 courts, will be reserved for team training for the up and coming season. The court ratio has not changed, still a max of 6 per court, some players might be invited to play on the team training courts. **Contacts:** The best way to get in touch is through meetup as your message will get picked up by the designated organiser for the chosen event. Otherwise please use WhatsApp to message us. Email: badmclub@gmail.com uni_badm1nton@yahoo.co.uk Primary: Vinh 07974 177707 Secondary: Nikita 07585 954797 **Disclaimer:** Organisers or LondonMet University can accept no liability for any loss or injury, however sustained, while taking part in club activities. If you want to cover yourself against injury to yourself or others, please make sure you have the appropriate insurance. In the interest of health and safety, proper footwear is a must in this club which means no casual footwear and no barefoot on the court.

**\# Unmissable Friday Night Social at the British Museum\! 🏛️✨** **\*Secure Your FREE Ticket with the museum Now!\* 🎟️** https://ticketing.britishmuseum.org/events?k=general%20admission Dive into an unforgettable evening of culture, connection, and celebration at the world-renowned British Museum in London! 🌍 Join us for an electrifying **\*Friday Night Social\***, where history meets modern-day merriment. With the museum’s doors open late, you’ll wander through awe-inspiring galleries brimming with treasures from ancient civilizations, all while forging new friendships in a vibrant, social atmosphere. Enjoy a guided tour led by an expert to deepen your appreciation of the museum’s wonders! 🗿📜 **\#\#\# Why the British Museum? 🏺** Founded in 1753, the British Museum is one of the oldest and most prestigious museums in the world, housing over **\*8 million artifacts\*** that tell the story of human history. From the enigmatic **\*Rosetta Stone\***, which unlocked the secrets of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs, to the majestic **\*Elgin Marbles\*** from the Parthenon, the museum is a treasure trove of cultural wonders. Its iconic **\*Great Court\***, with its breathtaking glass roof, is the largest covered public square in Europe—a perfect backdrop for an evening of exploration and connection. 🌟 Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, the museum’s galleries offer a captivating journey through time, from ancient Mesopotamia to the vibrant cultures of modern Africa. 🦒 If you would like to donate to Angelo for his efforts to conduct the tour then please donate here https://paypal.me/ArcheoAI **\#\#\# Event Highlights 🎉** This isn’t just a museum visit—it’s a \*dynamic social experience\* designed to spark connections and create memories! Here’s what’s in store: * **\*6:45 PM – Meet & Mingle\*** 🤝: Gather at the main entrance of the British Museum, where you’ll spot our group at the tall map stand on the right (check the uploaded photo for reference 📸). Can’t find us? If you enter via Montague Place, head to the main entrance and turn around to locate the meeting point. We’ll linger for 15 minutes, giving everyone time to join the fun. Expect lively conversations and a warm welcome as you connect with fellow adventurers! 😄 * **\*Guided Tour\*** 🧭: Embark on a fascinating guided tour led by our expert guide. The tour begins with the **\*Egyptian galleries\***, where the guide will provide a brief overview of the archaeology and history, offering insights to enhance your appreciation of the artifacts. Feel free to ask questions as the guide answers queries! ❓ Next, we’ll move to the **\*\*Middle Eastern galleries\*\***, exploring the Sumerian, Babylonian, and Assyrian periods with engaging explanations. The tour concludes in the **\*\*Ancient Greek galleries\*\***, where you’ll discover the rich history and artistry of this iconic civilization. 🏛️ * **\*Explore the Museum\*** 🕵️‍♀️: After the guided tour, venture into the museum’s captivating galleries in small groups or at your leisure. Marvel at the intricate **\*\*Benin Bronzes\*\***, stand in awe of the ancient **\*\*Egyptian mummies\*\***, or ponder the mysteries of the **\*\*Lewis Chessmen\*\***. With late-night access, you’ll experience the museum’s magic in a relaxed, crowd-free setting, perfect for soaking in the atmosphere and sharing your discoveries with new friends. 🌌 * **\*Reconvene at the meeting point at 8 PM\***. We will set off for the next venue at 8:05 PM. 🚶‍♂️ * **\*8:30 PM – Sip & Socialize\*** 🍹: The evening continues at the Hilton DoubleTree West End 92 Southampton Row, London WC1B 4BH · London, gb. Arriving late? Simply ask for **\*\*ZEN\*\*** to join the group. Note: Bring your ID, and dress to impress—no athletic tracksuits or sports trainers, please! 🕴️ **\#\#\# Why You Can’t Miss This 🚀** This is your chance to experience the British Museum’s timeless wonders in a fresh, social way. Whether you’re a local or visiting London, this evening promises a perfect blend of **\*\*cultural discovery\*\*, \*\*meaningful connections\*\***, and **\*\*pure fun\*\***. From the museum’s storied halls, where artifacts have inspired scholars and dreamers for centuries, and the high-energy vibes of after party Bar, this is a night you’ll talk about for years to come! **\#\#\# Important Details ℹ️** * **\*\*Dress Code\*\*:** Smart casual; no athletic tracksuits or sports trainers. 👗 * **\*\*Bring ID\*\*** for entry to the bar venues. 🆔 * **\*\*More Info\*\*:** Check the event page for additional details. 🌐 * **\*\*Join up now\*\*** \- if we have a lot of sign\-ups\, we may introduce a fee for any additional new joiners \(through the Meetup RSVP system\)\. Avoid this by signing up early\! ⏰ Don’t miss this chance to explore history, make new friends, and dance the night away in the heart of London. join us for an evening that’s as enriching as it is exhilarating! 🎉 NOTE WE HAVE A CERTAIN NUMBER OF FREE RSVPS WITH MEETUP (separate to the British Museum entry ticket). If you clicked attend and are on the attendees list it will say "you are going" in green at the bottom of the event oage. There's nothing else you need to do, you are in! AFTER THE FREE RSVPS ARE GONE THERE WILL BE A FEE. SO SIGN UP AND NOW IF YOU ARE INTERESTED. \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Some Tips:** 1. **Let’s all commit to updating our RSVPs if plans change**—it helps us plan better and ensures great attendance for everyone. If you RSVP “yes” but don’t attend and don’t update your RSVP, you may be removed from the group to keep things fair. No stress, though—you can rejoin for a small £10 fee! Just send me a DM, and I’ll share the PayPal details to get you back in. 2. **Turn Up on Time at the start!** This helps the quality of the event and helps you. 3. If you are struggling with the **app**, use the web page instead, that's what I use. 4. **Attendee Numbers & Guest Lists:** We have this event listed at least on two groups and the guest list includes attendees from all. You can see the list of attendees here: [https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/](https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/) [https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/](https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/) [https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife](https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife) 5. Join our **social media**: **Instagram**: [https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/](https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/) **X:** https://x.com/CityZenLondon 6. **Our WhatsApp group:** [See private comment in the comments section below]. We have a few rules including no ads, no DMs unless recipient is in the "Direct Messaging List" or risk removal and £10 rejoin fee. 7. **Support Our Amazing London Event Hosts! 🙌** Our incredible crew of hosts is the heartbeat of London’s buzzing meetup scene, bringing people together for unforgettable experiences that spark connection, growth, and fun! 🌟 From museum adventures to flirty dating mixers, these rockstar hosts pour their energy, time, and passion into creating events that level up your social and communication skills. But hosting isn’t easy—it takes resources, effort, and heart. 💖 Please consider supporting our hosts with a donation to keep the good vibes flowing and help us make London the ultimate social hub! 🚀 Below, meet our hosts for this event and see how you can chip in to fuel their amazing work. 8. To encourage signing up early to events and regulate the number of attendees a late joiner/overflow fee may be applied to an event for any **additional** people wanting to join the event. This may happen on the day or even an hour before the event. So there may be people who obtained a free RSVP to network with our group and some who had to pay. If you have successfully signed up to our event on meetup paid or not then you are in. Happy networking **Zen & The Meetup Groups** *The Visionary Social Connector* Zen, our AI guru with 25 years in the game, founded these meetups to transform his own social skills and now helps others do the same. From sparking in-person networking to coordinating epic events, Zen’s passion for connection is unstoppable. Help him keep the momentum going! Support Zen: Donate to cover event planning tools, venue bookings, and more. **[Donation Link](https://paypal.me/Zenswalks)** \*\*\*\* **Disclaimer, Liability Waiver & Media Consent** By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: **Organiser Identity** – The organiser operates under the community name **“ZEN”**, which is used as an alias for privacy and branding purposes. By joining, you understand that “ZEN” refers to the organiser and/or designated hosts of this event. **Assumption of Risk** – You understand and accept that participation in any social, recreational, or group activity involves inherent risks, including but not limited to personal injury, illness, property damage, or other unforeseen incidents. You voluntarily choose to attend at your own sole risk. **Personal Responsibility** – You are solely responsible for your own safety, health, wellbeing, and personal belongings at all times. It is your responsibility to exercise good judgment, act responsibly, and take appropriate precautions before, during, and after the event. **No Organiser Liability** – The organiser, hosts, volunteers, and the community known as **ZEN** accept no responsibility and shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, damage, accident, theft, or any other issue that may arise as a result of your participation. **Guests** – If you bring guests, you accept full responsibility for their conduct, safety, and understanding of this disclaimer. **Independent Event** – This event may be held in conjunction with other social or non-singles meetup groups. ZEN is not responsible for the actions, behaviour, or arrangements of any third parties. **Media Consent** – By attending this event, you consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded. You grant ZEN and its organisers the irrevocable right to use such images and recordings for promotional, marketing, social media, and community purposes without compensation or further approval. If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, it is your responsibility to inform the organiser in advance and to remove yourself from areas where filming or photography is taking place. **Acceptance of Terms** – By attending, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted this disclaimer. You release ZEN, its organisers, hosts, volunteers, and members from all claims, demands, or causes of action, whether known or unknown, arising out of your participation or the use of photography/videography captured at the event. Your attendance at this event signifies your full acceptance of this policy. If you do not agree, you should not attend.

Missing those easy chai conversations from back home? This is a casual meetup for Indians in London (20s–30s) to connect, chat, and unwind. We’ll grab chai/coffee and just have relaxed conversations — no agenda, no pressure. Whether you’re new to London or have been here a while, come meet like-minded people and build your circle. Keeping it small so everyone actually gets to talk.

Songwriters, come to our 3rd Sunday face-face songwriters' open mic at the Plough near the British Museum. STOP PRESS 6/4/26 - this open mic is still running but the ability to book slots in advance has disappeared - sorry. You can access info about it here though: [https://www.greeneking.co.uk/pubs/greater-london/plough/whats-on ](https://www.greeneking.co.uk/pubs/greater-london/plough/whats-on) The Plough is a nice pub, good food and the host is keen on original songs – I often go and can tell you it will be a fun evening Hope to see you there, Stu PS remember open mics can be a bit informal and do occasionally get cancelled at short notice. I'll update attendees if I here anything...

Join us for a relaxed group walk in Epping Forest while exploring personality theory and cognitive functions. This informal meetup is open to anyone interested in MBTI, Jungian cognitive functions, or personality discussions in general—whether you're experienced or just curious. Expect a casual walk, thoughtful conversation, and a chance to connect with like-minded people.

Do you have spare books lying around your home? Do you want to read new interesting books for free while socializing with interesting people? This is the event for you. We will enjoy nice drinks and snacks together at a beautiful lounge bar in London. You can bring your books and exchange them with whoever has the books you want to read. Since this is a Science and Philosophy book club, it would be great for you to bring non-fiction books that are insightful and thought-provoking. If you want to bring fiction books that are scientifically or philosophically insightful, feel free to bring those as well. Since it is a social event, I encourage everyone to make deep meaningful conversations and make new friends. You can come alone or bring your friends with you. If you come alone, there is no need to be shy or scared. I will welcome you and introduce you to cool interesting people to speak with. Also feel free to come even if you forget to bring any books.

Do you want to meet new people in a relaxing chill atmosphere surrounded by new books? Do you dislike loud and smelly places like pubs and clubs? This is the event for you. Science and Philosophy Book Club is creating a new kind of meetup where people who love books and knowledge can meet new friends in a big book shop. We will explore around different sections of the book shop together as a group while making interesting conversations with each other. We will go to both fiction and non-fiction areas. If you feel shy and feel nervous to come alone, I will make sure you will feel comfortable and accomodate to your needs. I will help introduce you to others so you can go over the barrier of anxiety when approaching a new person. We will meet on the ground floor lounge area of Doubletree Hilton Hotel at 6 p.m. It is an amazing cosy bar with classy vibes. We will wait for everyone to show up while getting some drinks and socializing. At 7 p.m we will head to the Waterstones book store near Russel Square and UCL. After we explore the book store, we will come back to the hotel bar and stay there for the rest of the night. This event requires £5 donation to cover the venue fees. You can pay via cash or card. Thank you for helping the book club!

Join the CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group for a dynamic afternoon of B2B networking! This event is perfect for professionals looking to expand their business connections, share insights, and foster collaboration within the community. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a supportive environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential partnerships, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your business network and take your career to the next level with CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group! We meet the 4th Monday of every month from 11am-1pm. Welcome and general networking from 11am - 11:30am with core meeting 11;30 - 12:30 and a final round of networking from 12:30 - 1pm.

Join us for an afternoon of peace, relaxation, & healing. This FREE Spring Open House is a beautiful way to step into sacred community by enjoying nourishing food, heartfelt connection, and complimentary sessions. We will be offering FREE mini services: Wax Scryings, Intuitive Readings, Somatic Healing, Soul Embodiment Light Activations, Reiki & Multidimensional Energy Healing, Channeled Card Messages, Vibrational Sound Healing, Healing Infrared Dome Sauna, Chakra & Meridian Healing & Energy Body Clearing & Activation, Psychic Readings, Meditation, Wellness Coaching, & more! Time slots will be available first come, first serve. Optional RSVP to Caitlynn at: [kalik.wellnesswithin@gmail.com] We will also be offering ongoing group talks and activities in our group room. Dr. Ryan Brown, Metaphysician & Transformational Trainer will be speaking at 3pm! This is a perfect opportunity to meet each practitioner & receive an introduction to the many different healing modalities we offer. Spiritual & Wholistic gifts and Gift Certificates & Packages will be available to purchase. They make a great gift for yourself or as a holiday gift of self-care for your friends and family. Mini Service Offerings: Ammatara: Wax Scryings, Intuitive Readings, Somatic Healing, & Soul Embodiment Light Activations Caitlynn: Energy Healing & Channeled Card Messages Ellen: Vibrational Sound Healing Team Member: Healing Infrared Dome Sauna Group Room Talks/Demos: Session 1 \| Intro to Center & Practitioners with Ammatara Session 2 \| Soulbits Circle with Caitlynn Session 3 \| Alternative Medicine with Dr\. Carlos Session 3 \| Group Sound Healing with Ellen Session 4 \| Somatic Healing\, Releasing & Return to Love with Ammatara Session 5 \| Frequency Shifting with Dr\. Ryan Brown Hosted by The Center for New Life Practitioners 6797 N. High Street Suite 333 Worthington Ohio 43085 \*Entrance up the orange ramp to right of building and to 3rd floor\*

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!

Communication is everything in life! You are only as successful as your ability to communicate. \- What if you could confidently talk to anyone? \- What if you had the ability to calmly control every conversation? \- What if you could close that sale\, ask for that date\, make new friends\, repair problematic relationships\, get that raise\, or effortlessly express any idea with confidence? You can! The secret to success relies on your ability or inability to effectively communicate. Attend a free seminar and gain a better ability to communicate. 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH 43215 Hosted by the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio For more information, contact Rhiannon, the Event Host at 614-221-5024

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!