Narcissism Awareness

Who do you admire, and why? This discussion explores the idea of idols from every angle: the people we look up to, what draws us to them, and whether that instinct serves or limits us. Are idols a source of inspiration, or do they set us up for disappointment? Come ready to share your perspective, challenge assumptions, and unpack what it really means to put someone or something on a pedestal. **ATTENDANCE POLICY:** To keep this group running smoothly and ensure that spots are available for those who genuinely want to attend, please RSVP only if you are confident you can make it. If you RSVP “Yes” and do not attend without updating your RSVP in advance, you may be restricted from attending future events for a period of time. We understand that things come up. If you can no longer attend, simply update your RSVP as soon as possible so your spot can be offered to someone on the waitlist. Repeated no-shows will result in removal from the group. Thank you for respecting everyone’s time and helping us maintain a reliable and engaged community. **SUPPORT THINKERS AND DRINKERS:** Thinkers and Drinkers International is a registered 501(c)7 nonprofit organization. We work hard to create an organization that adds value to our communities while keeping membership free for all. If you find value in what we’re doing, please consider donating through Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/thinkers](https://www.patreon.com/thinkers) **CONNECT:** Instagram: @ThinkersDrinkersInternational Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/thinkersdrinkersinternational/](https://www.facebook.com/thinkersdrinkersinternational/) Podcast: [https://www.spreaker.com/user/thinkersdrinkersinternational](https://www.spreaker.com/user/thinkersdrinkersinternational) Email: [[[ThinkersDrinkersInternational@gmail.com](mailto:ThinkersDrinkersInternational@gmail.com)]

Volunteer with us refurbishing donated bicycles to help us get them back out in the community! This event is open to both new and existing volunteers. No mechanical experience is necessary. Note: The warehouse location is in the alley behind 1502 Mt Vernon Ave. Enter through the gray door next to a roll-down garage door. If you drive to the location, be sure to park in the street, not in the alleys or parking lots surrounding the warehouse. And wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty with bicycle grease! Please be aware that volunteers under 18 need a parent or guardian to accompany them to their first volunteer experience and sign a liability waiver, while volunteers under 16 need a parent or guardian to accompany them at all times while volunteering with Vélocity.

***“I am struck with how rare it is to find a few good friends on the path. It is easy to find people who simply want to sit and be entertained by teachers, or who want to sit and entertain by playing the role of teacher. In other words, the quest for affirmation often outweighs the quest for truth.*** ***Yet you may have one or two good friends, and definitely have one or two waiting to be discovered. Find them; be thankful.”*** ***— Shawn Nevins*** 'What will make me happy in life?' ... 'Am I my thoughts?' ... 'What is Enlightenment?' ... We meet every week to ask questions like these in the pursuit of Self-Knowledge and Truth. We are interested in topics like: Zen, stoicism, spirituality, psychology, mindfulness, Nisargadatta, non-violent communication, Socrates, existential philosophy, Alan Watts, taoism, Eckhart Tolle, meditation, Ramana Maharshi, etc. But we are not affiliated with any dogma, philosophy, or religion. Our goal each meeting is to serve as mirrors for one another using question-based inquiry in a safe environment. In a session, every participant takes turns discussing the week's question or topic, and the group asks reflective questions without any agenda besides trying to understand the person's beliefs. A few other guiding principles of our group: * No one is obligated to share * Be honest with yourself and others * Do not try to convince others to believe or think as you do * Keep the focus on the person being questioned We meet at the [Bethesda Library](https://maps.app.goo.gl/GWMozF8zpY1m1PY26) every Monday. The library is a 5 minute walk from the Bethesda Metro on the Red Line, approx 25 minute Metro ride from Metro Center and Gallery Place stations. The library has a a parking lot with metered parking for $1/hour. \*\*\* WE WILL BE IN MEETING ROOM 3 UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED ----- THE MEETING ROOM IS IN THE BACK OF THE LIBRARY \*\*\* Please contact us with any questions!

_Games this month:_ the birds and the bees! Wingspan, Apiary, and more! **A note from the organizers:** We see that this is becoming a popular event and so there's not a ton of space available for general non Patreon members rsvp'ing via meetup. Space is limited by how many volunteers we have to host games each month, and first access goes to the members of the Patreon who support everything DCGG does. We have the goal to train and provide additional staff for this event as we gain capacity. **Note: If you are a member of the Patreon and have already secured early access via the form you do NOT need to RSVP on Meetup.** By popular demand and with the amazing friendship of the Highbinder Bar, we are introducing the **Charcuterie Board!** These are meaty games for experienced tabletop players or players who are comfortable with complexity. **About the Games** This series will focus on bringing experienced tabletop fans and meaty games together. These games will include titles with rulesets that are a bit more complex, take a bit more time, and are often strategic and competitive. DCGG will curate the games and provide trained game hosts to help get games going quickly and make sure all players are supported as they learn and engage with the games. The month's games will be in the title of this event. **Who this event is for:** Self-declared board game enthusiasts and/or people people looking to get into the hobby of tabletop games. While our game hosts will be there to help explain the game and rules, this event is targeted at players who are comfortable learning lots of rules and dedicating a few hours to a single game. And as always, DCGG enforces polite and healthy play spaces. **Not into complex games or just not ready for the meaty games?** Please explore our other events, such as Meat You at Fat Pete's or Rhythm and Brews, which have more party-focused and easy- to mid-level games. **What if we don't have enough players?** Through the power of teamwork and friendship, we will find a way for everyone to play and have a good time. **Please arrive on time, or else your space will be forfeit (cuz we often cant wait for people to get games going).** **BUT WAIT THERES MORE:** If you are interested in becoming a Supporting Member and enjoying perks like: * **Early RSVP Access:** Supporting Members will get early access to RSVPing to regular events. * **Town Hall meeting:** Supporting Members will be invited to participate in town halls and polls that will help determine how revenue past operating costs is directed. * **Discounted Ticket:** In the event that DCGG hosts paid ticketed events in the future, Supporting Members will be offered discounted prices. * The knowledge that you make all this possible! Visit the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/DCGamingGroup Feel free to join the DC Gaming Community by hopping into the Discord: https://discord.gg/NP7v7VF **Disclaimer and Community Code of Conduct:** The DC Gaming Group is dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive space for participants. to learn more about our code of conduct you can read more here. Events may be recorded for promotional materials.

Class: Developing Your Intuitive/Energy Skills Contents: Clearings, empath work, meditation, learning and enhancing energy work skills for working on self and others For further information, please contact Madhu 301-760-7491, info@stress-reliefcenter.com

Click here to attend: [https://www.jgoot.com/livestreams](https://www.jgoot.com/livestreams) Some people book hotels and think the transaction ends there. You book. You pay. You stay. Done deal. The mistake is thinking the value stops at checkout. It doesn’t. In this special session, JGOOT Earning Multipliers Expert Kira is introducing a brand-new completely free tool that helps travelers get more back from the hotel stays they’re already booking. Because the truth is: many travelers focus only on the price... while smarter travelers focus on the total return. It’s time for: **Checked In, Cashed Out: How to Stack Rewards on Every Hotel Stay** Kira will show how this free tool works, where extra value can be found, and how to turn ordinary hotel bookings into stronger earning opportunities. Inside this session, you’ll learn: • How to get more back from hotel bookings you’re already making • Where extra rewards are often missed • How to compare return, not just cost • Ways to stack value without adding complexity • How to start using this free tool immediately This isn’t about paying less. It’s not about changing your travel plans. It’s about getting more in return for money you’re already spending. And once you see bookings through that lens, hotel stays become a lot more rewarding. Click here to attend: [https://www.jgoot.com/livestreams](https://www.jgoot.com/livestreams)

Everyone, please join us on Monday, May 11 at 7 p.m. to discuss [The Screwtape Letters](https://www.amazon.com/Screwtape-Letters-C-S-Lewis-ebook/dp/B002BD2V2Y/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0) by [C.S. Lewis](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C._S._Lewis)\. \| 222pp\. This timeless classic recounting the correspondence between two devils is one of Lewis’s most brilliant imaginative creations and has sold millions of copies worldwide. “My Dear Wormwood...."? Enter Screwtape, an experienced devil. His nephew Wormwood is just at the start of his career as a tempter and has been assigned to secure the damnation of an ordinary young man who has just become a Christian.? In this slyly humorous exchange, C. S. Lewis delves into moral questions about good and evil, temptation, repentance, and grace. This is a book for C. S. Lewis fans and anyone who wants to take a deep dive into what it means to be a human. Lewis uses The Screwtape Letters to convey religious concepts like temptation in an understandable way by exploring free will and how it is humanity’s greatest weakness as well as its greatest strength. Our meetings have a $3 fee, purely to offset the cost of Meetup. This can be paid via Venmo, Paypal, or in cash. We do not accept requests from authors to read their books. We will never ask for money beyond the above fee. If you receive offers purporting to come from the club they are part of an online scam.

⸻ Important Info 🎯 Please bring your own archery equipment if you have it. I do have a limited amount of beginner-friendly equipment available (enough for about 3 people), but it is first come, first serve. Feel free to bring snacks, drinks, and good vibes—we’re here to have fun, be social, and enjoy the experience together ✨

Social Presencing Theater (SPT) is an embodied awareness based practice used as an arts-based system change methodology, however, it can be used in many different applications to bring awareness to the present through body intelligence. This event, led by somatic practitioner, [Lindsay Little](https://somalingua.com/about), will teach SPT practices and invite you to connect with your body, your somatic knowing, intuition, and the present moment. There will be some reflective dialogue, but most of the event will involve moving your body and resting in stillness in a group setting. No prior experience is required. Find out more about SPT here: https://arawanahayashi.com/spt. You may want to bring a blanket or yoga mat and a journal. Curious? Come and explore!

Details Location: Crimson Whiskey Bar (Either the downstairs whiskey bar, or main floor bar, TBD) The purpose of Thinkers and Drinkers is to facilitate casual but meaningful and interesting conversations with other people in a face-to-face setting. The topics cover a wide variety of issues and are different for every meeting. While conversations may get heated at times, we ask that all members be respectful of each other and refrain from personal insults. \*\*\* **Topic: Are individuals at fault for the fact that the most widely used information sources often fail to provide the nuanced dichotomy required to express the truth? Did our desire for affirmation, entertainment, or oversimplified explanations create the misinformation age?** Modern technology ensures that misinformation can be generated and disseminated faster and at a lower cost than ever before. Algorithms and automated systems facilitate the rapid spread of content that reinforces existing worldviews, often outpacing information that challenges them. As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, it can provide an endless supply of misleading content that is increasingly difficult to distinguish from the truth. While technological advancements may offer potential solutions for verifying authenticity, the immense profits and political power gained from distorting or controlling reality often create significant incentives to prevent the implementation of such safeguards. Given these profound supply-side challenges, the demand and consumption of misinformation should be explored more. Understanding and then evolving the psychological motivations of consumers —such as the desire for affirmation, entertainment, or oversimplified explanations—may be the final line of defense in reclaiming an objective reality. **Questions to consider:** When is the last time you read something that made you think your opinion had been wrong? Is the misinformation age a demand side problem or is that victim blaming? Can we change ourselves instead of hoping to rein in the tech and news giants that have outgrown government regulations or borders? Did you learn something this week that shocked you/ made you change your mind? **Quotes to ponder:** “Truth will ultimately prevail where pains is taken to bring it to light.” George Washington “The masses have never thirsted after truth. They turn aside from evidence that is not to their taste, preferring to deify error, if error seduce them. Whoever can supply them with illusions is easily their master; whoever attempts to destroy their illusions is always their victim.” Gustave Le Bon **Sources to consider:** Please consider sharing your own source that challenged one of your opinions, whether an article, podcast, book or something else. If you’ve never read it, please consider reading Plato’s allegory of cave (chapter 7 of The Republic) https://web.sbu.edu/theology/bychkov/plato%20republic%207.pdf

### **[Disclaimer] To ensure a complete sign-up for this event, please make sure to RSVP on The Brickyard's original event sign-up page on their website [here](https://thebrickyard.us/events/the-brickyard-the-vfw-civic-virtue-series-5-14-26/).** The NoVA Forward Party's May 2026 Social Event will coincide with the Civic Virtue Event hosted by The Brickyard and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) on Thursday, May 14th from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM at John Lyon VFW Post 3150 in Arlington. Forward Party members and guests will have an opportunity to socialize with each other as well as with Brickyard and VFW members, learn more about the Party and other opportunities to participate, all while enjoying wonderful food and drink! John Lyon VFW Post 3150 is located about 10 minutes away from the [Court House Metro Station](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Court+House,+2100,+Arlington,+VA+22201/John+Lyon+VFW+Post+3150,+2116+19th+St+N,+Arlington,+VA+22201/@38.89509,-77.0880054,15.49z/data=!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x89b7b661fdd004c7:0xcbc922dc4420d6ca!2m2!1d-77.0850237!2d38.8911662!1m5!1m1!1s0x89b7b67df004b1fb:0x90b5d5d0cf7b0023!2m2!1d-77.0849023!2d38.8954932!3e2!5m1!1e2?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQyOC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) on the Orange and Silver Lines. Attendees arriving via transportation other than the Metro are encouraged to utilize ridesharing services to avoid difficulties finding parking near the venue. Food and drink will be provided free of charge by VFW. We look forward to seeing you!

Learn more about our Home Buyer Program * get up to $202k in down payment assistance through HPAP * get up to $25K in grants from Maryland Mortgage Program * downpayment assistance options through DC Open Doors * how to qualify and what loans are available * loan application and approval process * repeat home buyer options * purchase price limits * market insight and home buying steps in a competitive market SIGN UP AT THE LINK BELOW: [https://www.enggarcia.com/egpwebinars/](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.enggarcia.com/egpwebinars/&sa=D&source=calendar&ust=1705256818169980&usg=AOvVaw0qgqMgQjduPHADDDggU6H6)

**Title**: Amplifying Engineering Skills with Claude Code In this session we will dive into how Claude Code can augment modern engineering practices, from rapid prototyping and refactoring to test generation and documentation. We’ll cover real-world use cases, integration patterns, and tips for getting the most out of AI in your development lifecycle. 6-6:30p.m. - food & drinks 6:30-7:30p.m. - Presentation 7:30-8:00p.m. - Q&A and Possible concept presentation for feedback

**Finding Yourself Without Losing Yourself (for Ages 18-25) with Akshay Kuchibhatla** ## ***Join emerging Gen Z leader Akshay Kuchibhatla for this special workshop. Move beyond expectations and make choices that feel right for you.*** In a time when everyone is trying to figure out who they are, it’s easy to get pulled in different directions, by expectations, social media, relationships, and the pressure to “have it all together.” Somewhere along the way, many begin to feel disconnected from their true self. This workshop is a space to pause, reset, and reconnect with your true self. Come explore who you are at your core, beyond labels, trends, and outside opinions. Through guided reflection, real conversations, and simple mindfulness practices, you’ll gain clarity on your values, strengthen your inner voice, and learn how to make choices that feel right for you. You don’t have to lose yourself to find yourself. You can grow, evolve, and still stay true. Come as you are. Leave more connected, clear, and confident. ***Akshay Kuchibhatla*** *is a thoughtful and emerging Gen Z leader currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science at George Mason University. Passionate about personal growth, self-awareness, and helping young people navigate life with clarity and purpose, Akshay brings a grounded and relatable perspective to conversations about identity, values, and inner strength.* Sat., May 24th, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm. Held at Brahma Kumaris, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl, Suite 200, 2nd Floor, Chantilly, VA. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/luks5](https://shorturl.at/luks5)

Whether you are a seasoned public speaker or looking to build your confidence in front of an audience, this event is perfect for anyone interested in self-help and self-improvement. Hosted by the Empower Confident Toastmasters group, this workshop aims to provide practical tools and techniques for leadership development. Meet like-minded individuals and network with professionals in a supportive environment. Don't miss this opportunity to invest in your personal growth and unlock your full potential.

**Self-Care Is the Way with Guest Speaker Psychiatrist Dr. Sara Eagger** Join us for a nurturing evening dedicated to emotional wellness, inner balance, and the power of caring for the self from the inside out. In a world that asks so much of us, self-care is not selfish, it is sacred. Dr. Sara Eager will share practical wisdom and gentle insight to help us restore calm, strengthen the mind, and reconnect with our inner peace. Come as you are. Leave feeling lighter, clearer, and more cared for. ***Dr. Sara Eagger (MB, BS, FRCPsych)*** *is a retired consultant psychiatrist from Imperial College London and Chair of the Janki Foudation, a UK-based charity which promotes spirituality in healthcare. With over 45 years of Raja Yoga meditation practice, she teaches Mindful Self-Compassion and co-authored "Stillness in the Storm: 7 Tools for Coping with Fear and Uncertainty."* Tue., May 19th, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm. Held at Brahma Kumaris, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl, Suite 200, 2nd Floor, Chantilly, VA. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/coWuE](https://shorturl.at/coWuE)