Self-Help & Self-Improvement

***“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!

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)]

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

Continuing the 201 Improv class. This will run 8 weeks and will have a showcase towards the end of June. It is 150$ for the entire class and showcase. Let's "yes, and"!

📚 Do you love reading, but wish you had a structure and a community to share your insights with? Join our small circle of curious minds (just 4 members per gathering) as we come together for an hour of focused reading—in the calm setting of a library or the cozy atmosphere of a café. Here’s how it works: First part: Quiet reading on your own—bring a book you’re exploring, whether it’s philosophy, history, psychology, literature, or anything meaningful to you. Second part: We regroup and each person shares key takeaways, insights, or questions sparked by their reading. This sparks a structured yet free-flowing conversation around ideas, perspectives, and personal reflections. Why join? Add structure to your reading habit. Discover new books, authors, and ideas through others’ choices. Build real connections by sharing and listening deeply. Socialize around something meaningful instead of small talk.

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.

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!

**Reclaiming the Landmark: Rewriting Your Relationship with a Holiday, Place, or Event** As summer holidays, gatherings, and activities approach, many of us may find ourselves revisiting memories, emotions, or experiences connected to specific holidays, places, or events. These emotional reactions are not flaws; they can be understood as landmarks that help us better understand where we have been and where we want to go next. In this session, participants will be guided through individual reflection and small group exploration to examine how certain holidays, events, or places can trigger emotions and shape our sense of self. Together, we will explore how to reframe these triggers as meaningful emotional landmarks and begin redefining our relationships with them in ways that feel more grounded, intentional, and authentic. This session is an opportunity to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what honors your true and genuine self as you move into the summer season.

**Positive Thinking for a Life of Purpose with Anju Gupta** Join us for an uplifting and insightful session as we guide participants through a process of self-realization by using their greatest asset, their thoughts. Discover how positive thinking can shape your mindset, strengthen your inner resilience, and help you live with greater clarity, intention, and purpose. This session will offer practical tools and reflections to help you cultivate empowering thoughts that support a more meaningful and fulfilling life. ***Anju Gupta*** *is an educator and motivational speaker who is passionate about inspiring individuals to recognize their inner strengths and unlock their highest potential.* **(In person at the Meditation Museum in Silver Spring, MD)** Sat., May 16th, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm. Held at Meditation Museum, 9525 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, MD 20910. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/vfw0S](https://shorturl.at/vfw0S)

The experience of loss is universal. Whether it’s the end of a relationship, the death of a loved one, or the passing of a chapter in our lives, grief naturally arises. Yet we don’t have to remain stuck in sorrow or feel that happiness is beyond our reach. Through Buddha’s timeless wisdom, we can learn to navigate grief with clarity and compassion. These teachings help us heal our hearts, transform our pain into wisdom, and discover a renewed sense of purpose and peace. Join us for this special talk to explore practical methods for working with loss, letting go, and opening to a happier, more meaningful life. Includes a talk, guided meditation, and Q&A. You can register at the door or: [https://meditation-dc.org/event/overcoming-grief-finding-peace-and-meaning-after-loss/](https://meditation-dc.org/event/overcoming-grief-finding-peace-and-meaning-after-loss/) Cost: $12 / $6 Hardship Members Free https://meditation-dc.org/membership/ Event Schedule Friday May 15: 7-8:15pm

Death is a natural part of life, yet many of us feel unsure how to help loved ones during this important transition. In the Kadampa Buddhist tradition, death is understood as a meaningful moment—one that can be approached with clarity, compassion, and purpose. In this workshop, we will explore practical and heartfelt ways to support others at the time of death and after they have passed. Drawing from Buddhist teachings on the death process, we will learn how our presence, prayers, and intentions can be deeply beneficial for those who are dying, helping to create a calm and peaceful environment for their mind. The workshop will also introduce powa, a special Buddhist ceremony and meditation practice performed on behalf of the deceased. Powa is a method of compassionate assistance that helps guide the consciousness toward a positive rebirth. We will learn when and how this practice is performed, its meaning, and how it can be engaged in as an act of kindness and care. This workshop is suitable for anyone interested in end-of-life support, caregiving, spiritual care, or developing a wiser and more compassionate relationship with death. No previous experience with meditation or Buddhism is required. Includes: Clear explanations of Buddhist views on death and dying Guidance on how to help others at the time of death Introduction to the powa ceremony and its purpose Guided meditations and time for questions You can register at the door or register online: https://meditation-dc.org/event/helping-others-at-death-beyond/ Cost: Whole Weekend: $45 Saturday only: $30 Sunday only : $15 Event Schedule Session 1: 10am-11:15am Session 2: 12:15pm-1:15pm

Buddha’s teachings offer profound insight into the meaning and process of death and dying, helping us to develop an awareness of our own mortality in a way that enriches and transforms our life. Though gaining familiarity with certain special ways of thinking, we can live a meaningful life and meet our death joyfully as we transition into our next life with grace, clarity, faith and fearlessness. You can register at the door or register online: https://meditation-dc.org/event/death-dying-a-buddhist-perspective/ Cost: Whole Weekend: $50 ($25 financial hardship) Friday Night Lecture: $12 Saturday only: $30 Sunday only: $12 Event Schedule: Session 1: 10am - 11:15am Session 2: 12pm - 1pm Lunch: 1pm-2:15pm Session 3: 2:15pm-3:30pm with Q & A

**Vienna Toastmasters Club:** https://viennava.toastmastersclubs.org/ "Speaking in front of a group of other people is a natural human state, which is probably the reason so many of us are frightened of doing it." *\~ Elliot Essman* **Where and When We Meet** USUALLY, our meetings are on the SECOND and FOURTH Tuesday of each month at **Vienna** **Community Center, 120 Cherry St SE, Vienna, VA 22180, as well as online via Zoom link.** Occasionally the meeting location changes, so please "Contact us" to confirm before coming.

In the midst of life’s storms—whether in relationships, work, or within ourselves—it can be difficult to find clarity and calm. The “I” Of the Storm: Embracing Conflict, Creating Peace, based on the work of Dr. Gary Simmons, invites you to discover the steady center within—the part of you that remains grounded even when everything around you is in motion. Led by Brian Drafton-Griffin, this engaging workshop offers practical tools and meaningful insights to help you navigate conflict with greater awareness, compassion, and confidence. Through guided discussion and reflection, you’ll learn how to shift from reaction to response and transform challenges into opportunities for growth and connection.

Communication is everything in life! Attend this free lecture about how to be a better communicator. 📍 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH 43215 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. Hosted by the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio For more information, contact Rhiannon, the Event Host at 614-221-5024

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. Hosted by the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH 43215 For more information, contact Rhiannon, the Event Host at 614-221-5024

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

Communication is everything in life! Attend this free lecture about how to be a better communicator. 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. Hosted by the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio 1266 Dublin Rd Columbus OH 43215 For more information, contact Rhiannon, the Event Host at 614-221-5024

Join us for this free, in person meeting on the subject of betrayals, losses and how to get over them so you can build lasting relationships. Do you want more motivation and confidence to build lasting relationships? Are you burdened by a stressful relationship? Unhealthy relationships can trigger feelings of anger, despair or self-doubt. They can create dwindling spirals of fights and seeking to make-up, or trying to “pin the blame” on someone or something. If you don’t find the RIGHT reasons, or select the correct sources of the problem, the problem can just get worse and worse. Whether in love or personal ties, with friends or at work, our life really IS affected by the quality of our relationships. Good ones can promote pleasure and survival, while less optimum ones can lead to annoyance, anger, self-doubt, stress, or even affect our health and ability to survive well. Whether you are suffering from a divorce, or a painful break-up, don’t know who to trust (or who to CHOOSE) as a partner, friend, boss or employee - the anxiety of relationship troubles can really make a mess of things. Maybe you’ve suffered a betrayal, or are dealing with hostility or criticalness or invalidation. Dwindling relationships can involve destructive behavior, where we hurt those we love, or start succumbing to self-destructive thoughts, attitudes or behaviors that spiral out of control and affect much more than our immediate relationship. Past losses in love or life can affect how we act or react to new people and situations and hold us back from even starting to create new, possibly great relationships! How can one get back onto a saner course of action? Come to our Meetup, where we can introduce you to some of the knowledge, tools and techniques of the breakthroughs in the field of the mind that we can apply to this ever important area of life: human relationships! Break free from self imposed limitations Here we will discuss: • How to “erase” the trauma of past hurts and betrayals so that one isn’t always repeating past mistakes. • Why and how do the negative emotions of others affect you? • Why is my partner withdrawing and what can I do about it? • Why do we sometimes feel compelled to hurt the ones we love? • Fights & arguments - what's really behind them? • What underlies “corrosive criticism” or the need to invalidate self or others? • How one can stably change one’s outlook on life so they can affect positive change? • Where do compulsive destructive behaviors come from and what can be done about them? • How to form closer bonds & keep growing the relationships with the people you care about? • How to enhance one’s own ability to survive and create positive healthy relationships whether in love, family & friendships or in work, business or one’s career? Relationships can be hard and life itself IS challenging. Why not arm yourself with the knowledge and breakthroughs that have been made about the mind, mental reactions & interpersonal relationships, so that one has better awareness and control over themselves and life in general. Learn where painful experiences are “stored” and how they can unknowingly affect us. You will also find out how one can “erase” those past painful experiences so that one is free to move forward without being tripped up by the past. Learn too, about what can lead some people to become “toxic” personalities and how to identify those traits in others so you won’t be tripped up trusting the wrong person. Our free Meet-ups occur in a safe environment where one can learn, without fear of judgment or criticism, and without the recommendation of harmful mental techniques or therapies, just how YOU can get yourself onto a happier & more successful path: in love & in life. We look forward to having you join us! This class is held at the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

This is an in-person meeting. Would you like to know the Real You, not just a shadow of yourself? Does your life energy feel somehow trapped within? Does your self-confidence get easily shaken? Do you get in the way of your own goals? We will discuss the real source of all this, what holds you back in life, and how to handle it so you can achieve more successful and happier living. Perhaps you get weighed down with negative emotions you can't seem to shrug off. Or find yourself doing strange and irrational things - not really being yourself. We will cover why that is and tools that work to help you unearth your self, your self-confidence and motivation. This meeting will help you learn about how to effectively overcome: -Out-of-control unwanted emotions -Low self-esteem -Anxiety -Negativity -Stress -Irrational fears -Traumatic or painfully emotional incidents -Breakups -Betrayals -Feeling like you're not really yourself -Self-doubt... We will discuss how to unleash the inner you and tap into your true potential. So come to this online meetup! This meeting is sponsored by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation of Central Ohio