How much is enough?

Kicking off the new year, we’ll dive into one of life’s most enduring questions: How much is enough? Through the lens of Erich Fromm’s To Have or To Be? and Anton Chekhov’s The Lottery Ticket, we’ll explore how material desires can obscure deeper fulfillment. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on how to find the balance between what we own and who we are, and how these ideas still resonate in the fast-paced modern world.

📚 Speakeasy Preparation

⏱️ Time Commitment: 1-2 hours of pre-reading

📖 Reading 1: What is the Having Mode? and What is the Being Mode? from Erich Fromm's To Have or To Be? These chapters explore Fromm’s contrast between living a life focused on possession and accumulation (having), and one grounded in presence, growth, and authentic experience (being). Length: 30 pages

📖 Reading 2:

"The Lottery Ticket" by Anton Chekhov This short story examines how the sudden prospect of wealth ignites greed and disturbs a sense of contentment, making us question whether more is ever really enough. Length: 5 pages

🤔 Enduring Questions: What will we talk about?

• How do we define "enough"?

• What does it mean to live in the

  having

  mode versus the

  being

  mode, and how does this affect our ability to find fulfillment?

• How does greed distort our appreciation for what we already have?

• Can true contentment come from possessions, or is there something deeper that brings lasting satisfaction?

• What lessons can Fromm and Chekhov offer us about navigating the pressures of modern life, particularly during the holidays?

🍺 In-Person in Portland, Oregon:

Class registration fees include your choice of one alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage. The first 30 min. of our session is for ordering drinks and mingling with other participants (don't worry, it won't be awkward!). We start the class right on time at 7:00PM.

A Note on Preparation:

We ask participants to complete a short pre-reading or viewing, designed to fit into busy schedules, taking less than two hours. This shared focus ensures engaging, meaningful discussions. No expertise is needed—just come ready to explore ideas together.

Join us in exploring how much is enough as we reflect on the balance between material desires and deeper fulfillment in an ever-demanding world.