Philosophers & Gamblers

In this month’s Design Your Life meetup, we’ll explore the idea of Grit by Angela Duckworth and examine what it takes to succeed in school, work, and life. Duckworth draws from years of research across education, military training, competitive spelling bees, and high-pressure workplaces to show that the most consistent predictor of success isn’t talent, luck, or the ability to process information...it’s grit: the combination of sustained passion and long-term perseverance. Rather than relying on quick wins or natural ability, gritty individuals commit to goals over the course of years, working diligently through setbacks and failure. Grit also highlights the power of adopting a growth mindset; the belief that abilities can be developed through effort and learning, which helps people stay motivated even when progress feels slow. Professor Duckworth reframes success as less about being gifted and more about staying committed, practicing deliberately, and caring deeply about the outcome. You do not need to read the book to participate in the meetup.

This event is brought to you by the Free Thinker Institute (FTI), a not-for-profit looking to support and empower personal development for its members - and for everyone interested.
At this event we will discuss some topic that will be focused on helping us all flourish as human beings. Here's the agenda:

1. Introductions
2. Brainstorm topics
3. Vote on topics
4. Discuss the topic(s) that were most popular

In these conversations, we try to follow the 5 intentions, which can be found on FreeThinkerInstitute.org.

Join us for a thought-provoking exploration into Kenneth Smith's essay "Jesus, Christos, Immanuel," where he delves into the intricate relationship between Jesus, spirituality, and human nature. Drawing upon the insights of William Blake, Smith challenges conventional Christian interpretations, proposing that Jesus should be viewed not as a deity but as a moral genius who exemplifies the pinnacle of human potential.​

Smith's analysis emphasizes personal accountability and the internal origins of sin, aligning with both Jesus' teachings and Greek philosophical concepts of fate and daimon. He critiques the tendency to deify Jesus, arguing that such elevation detracts from the profound human lessons inherent in his life and message.​

This discussion will engage with Smith's perspectives on how spirituality is cultivated over time and the implications of viewing Jesus as a model for human moral development rather than a divine exception. Participants will have the opportunity to reflect on the intersections of theology, philosophy, and personal ethics.​

Prepare for an engaging session that challenges traditional narratives and invites a deeper understanding of the human aspects of spiritual teachings.

B: Jesus, Christos, Immanuel https://kennethsmithphilosophy.com/end06.php