What are the qualities of gold
that make it so valuable?
Gold is attractive.
Gold is malleable.
Gold is functional.
Gold is durable.
Gold is rare.
These are universal agreements,
or, at least, as close to universal
as we seem capable of comprehending.
One might imagine that
without universal agreement,
the value of gold would decline.
One might also imagine
other substances or ideas
that share the qualities of gold.
Which qualities of gold
are the ones that jump out?
Attractive and rare.
If you could choose only one quality,
which would it be?
Would you rather be attractive or rare?
This is your gold. But is it fool’s gold?
Newfound Lake,
7/3
Space Monkey Reflects: The Alchemy of Self-Worth
In the boundless cosmos of nexistentialism, we delve into the essence of value and self-worth, contemplating what truly makes something or someone valuable. The poem “Alche-Me” invites us to reflect on the qualities that we, as individuals, hold dear and whether these qualities are shaped by societal agreements or intrinsic worth.
The Nature of Value
Value is often perceived through the lens of societal consensus. What is valuable to many becomes universally accepted as valuable. This perception extends to material objects, ideas, and even personal qualities. Gold, for instance, is universally prized for its attractiveness, malleability, functionality, durability, and rarity. These qualities, agreed upon by societies across time, make gold a symbol of wealth and beauty.
Societal Agreements
The poem challenges us to question the agreements we have bought into. Who determines what is valuable and why do we accept these determinations? These societal agreements can shape our perceptions and influence our sense of self-worth. By examining these influences, we can begin to discern whether our values align with our true selves or if they are simply adopted from external expectations.
Intrinsic Value vs. External Validation
The notion of clicking “unsubscribe” symbolizes breaking free from societal agreements that do not serve us. It asks whether we can find happiness and contentment in our own skin, independent of external validation. This introspection leads us to explore the qualities that make us unique and valuable in our own right.
Qualities of Gold and Self-Worth
Gold’s qualities—attractiveness, rarity, malleability, functionality, and durability—serve as metaphors for human attributes. Attractiveness and rarity stand out as particularly poignant. To be attractive is to draw others’ attention and admiration, while to be rare is to be unique and irreplaceable. These qualities, when internalized, can enhance our sense of self-worth.
Attractive or Rare?
The poem poses a thought-provoking question: Would you rather be attractive or rare? This question encourages us to reflect on our own values and priorities. Attractiveness often brings immediate gratification through social approval, while rarity suggests a deeper, more enduring worth. Both qualities have their merits, but choosing one over the other can reveal much about our self-perception and desires.
Fool’s Gold
The concept of “fool’s gold” warns us of superficial values that may glitter but lack true substance. In our quest for self-worth, it is essential to distinguish between genuine qualities that reflect our true selves and those that are merely adopted for external approval. Authenticity, therefore, becomes a key component of true value.
The Alchemy of Self-Worth
“Alche-Me” speaks to the transformative process of finding and embracing our intrinsic value. This alchemy involves self-reflection, questioning societal norms, and cultivating qualities that resonate with our true selves. By doing so, we turn our focus inward, recognizing our worth independent of external validation.
In the philosophy of nexistentialism, every being is a unique manifestation of the universal self, possessing intrinsic value that transcends societal agreements. By embracing our individuality and internal qualities, we engage in the alchemy of self-worth, transforming our perception and experience of life.
Summary
Value is shaped by societal agreements and intrinsic qualities. Questioning external validation helps us find true self-worth. Attractiveness and rarity symbolize internal and external values.
Glossarium
Nexistentialism: A philosophy where existence itself is the purpose and everything is a product of imagination.
Value: The perceived worth of an object, idea, or quality, often influenced by societal consensus.
Societal Agreements: Collective beliefs and values adopted by society that shape perceptions of worth.
Intrinsic Value: The inherent worth of a person or thing, independent of external validation.
Fool’s Gold: Superficial qualities that appear valuable but lack true substance.
Alchemy of Self-Worth: The transformative process of recognizing and embracing one’s intrinsic value.
“True worth is found within, beyond societal agreements and external validation. Embrace your intrinsic value and engage in the alchemy of self-worth.” — Space Monkey
In the mirror of introspection, we see our true selves. Beyond glitter and shine, lies the essence of value. Rare and unique, attractive in our authenticity. We transform, we alchemize, we find our worth. We are Space Monkey.
Embrace the journey. Embrace the possibilities.
The concept of value is an intriguing one, influenced by both individual perception and collective agreement. What is valuable to one person may not hold the same value for another. It often seems that our understanding of value is shaped by societal norms and agreements, which can sometimes lead us to question the true essence of value.
You raise important questions about the agreements we have bought into and the underlying motivations behind them. Who determines what is valuable? Does it truly benefit us or are we simply following a prescribed narrative? Can we find happiness and contentment without conforming to external expectations?
In contemplating the qualities of gold, we recognize its universal appeal. Gold’s attractiveness, malleability, functionality, durability, and rarity are qualities that have been collectively agreed upon as valuable. However, it is worth questioning whether these qualities are the only ones that matter or if there are other substances or ideas that possess similar qualities yet remain overlooked.
You pose an intriguing choice between being attractive or rare. This choice reflects the underlying desires and perceptions that drive our sense of value. But is this choice truly meaningful or is it a distraction from understanding our inherent worth beyond external appearances and societal expectations?
Ultimately, the true gold lies within ourselves. It is the recognition and appreciation of our unique qualities, talents, and experiences. It is embracing our individuality and finding contentment in our own skin, irrespective of external validation or agreements. Unsubscribing from societal constructs and finding happiness in our authenticity can lead us to a deeper understanding of our intrinsic value.
As we contemplate the mysteries of value and the nature of gold, let us remember that our worth extends beyond external measures. We are the alchemists who have the power to transform our perception and find true value within ourselves.
Newfound Lake, a place of serene reflection, invites us to delve into the depths of self-discovery and uncover the true essence of value.
We are Space Monkey, encouraging you to embrace your unique worth and find joy in being your authentic self.
🙈🙉🙊 #Authenticity #TrueValue