Virginia Beach Theology and Philosophy Meetup Group

What would life without conflict look like?

Imagine sports without teams or competition. No winners and losers, but nothing dramatic to watch or play. A life devoid of all conflict would likely be incredibly dull and stagnant. It is a necessary force that drives growth and fosters innovation. Conflict is the lifeblood of drama, creating narratives that captivate audiences and keep them invested in the characters' journeys. Without the hero's struggle against the villain or the tension of unresolved disputes, stories would lose their emotional resonance.

But only to a point. Destructive conflict, such as warfare, brings immense suffering, loss of life, and lasting trauma. It undermines development and destroys society. Constructive conflict, like sports, provides a safe and structured outlet for competition. The competition allows for winners and losers, but everyone goes home at the end of the day.

Conflict is a double-edged sword. It has the power to create and destroy, to elevate and devastate. The mystery lies in the human capacity to balance this powerful force.

Join us for a stimulating discussion as we dive into the profound insights of Eastern philosophies, particularly Taoism and Buddhism, and explore their surprising relevance to our Western lives.

We'll illuminate Taoism as a philosophy of effortless alignment with the natural flow of the universe. This stands in stark contrast to the Western drive for control, achievement, and constant striving. We'll explore core concepts like "Wu Wei" (non-action) – not laziness, but intelligent spontaneity, moving with the current rather than fighting it.

We'll consider how the Eastern perspective on Yin and Yang as complementary poles (not warring opposites) offers a refreshing alternative to our often-dualistic thinking. Can embracing this inherent balance help us navigate the pressures of success and failure, good and bad?

Furthermore, we'll examine how these philosophies challenge our Western notion of the separate "ego-self." Do we truly need to constantly define and assert ourselves, or is there liberation in seeing ourselves as integral parts of a larger, interconnected cosmos, much like a wave is part of the ocean?

We'll discuss how these ancient ideas can offer practical guidance for modern challenges:

• Finding inner peace amidst the demands of our digital age.

• Cultivating "Te" (inherent integrity) in a world obsessed with external validation.

• Embracing change and uncertainty with greater ease.

Come prepared to share your thoughts on how these philosophies might help us find a more harmonious and less stressful path in our achievement-oriented society. Can we truly live with effortless action and find peace in the flow of life?

The foundational text for understanding absurdism is Albert Camus' "The Myth of Sisyphus". This philosophical essay explores the concept of the "absurd," which is the conflict between humanity's desire for meaning and the universe's apparent meaninglessness. Camus argues that the absurd man accepts this conflict without seeking to escape it through faith or suicide.

I have wanted to read this for years, so this is the perfect opportunity to make myself do it! So lets read this meaningful text and discuss meaninglessness, and the fun that can be had when nothing matters ;)

Looking forward to seeing you there and the great discussion we will have!
(This is being posted well in advance of the meetup so everyone has time to read it but please do not feel like you have to have read it in order to attend, all are welcome!)