You can push me down
and yoke me up,
but you’re not my oppressor
(Not my oppressor)

You can turn against
and keep me fenced,
but you’re not my oppressor
(Not my oppressor)

You can choke me out
and bleed me dry

You can hang my heels
towards the sky

You can steal my life,
but take no pride

because you’re not my oppressor
(Not my oppressor)

Newfound Lake
7/2

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Power of Defiance

In the face of oppression, the spirit of defiance shines brightly. The declaration, “Not my oppressor,” resounds with a powerful resolve. It is a statement of inner strength and unwavering resilience, a refusal to be defined or broken by external forces. This defiance is not about denying the reality of oppression but about reclaiming power and dignity in the midst of it.

The oppressor may push us down, yoke us up, turn against us, and keep us fenced. Yet, despite these actions, the oppressor cannot define us. The strength of our spirit transcends the physical and psychological chains imposed upon us. In this defiance, we find a profound freedom—a freedom that cannot be taken away, no matter the circumstances.

To declare someone “not my oppressor” is to assert one’s autonomy and self-worth. It is a recognition that while oppression exists, it does not have the power to define our identity or dictate our worth. This assertion is an act of rebellion against the very nature of oppression, which seeks to dehumanize and diminish. By refusing to internalize the oppressor’s narrative, we maintain our sense of self and our dignity.

The acts of pushing down, yoking up, turning against, and fencing in are all attempts to exert control and instill fear. But the true power lies in our response. We can choose to see these actions not as defining us but as challenges to overcome. This perspective transforms us from victims into resilient beings, capable of enduring and transcending hardship.

Oppression often aims to instill a sense of helplessness and dependence. By stating, “You’re not my oppressor,” we reclaim our agency. We acknowledge the reality of our situation without succumbing to it. This act of defiance is a declaration of independence, a refusal to be reduced to the sum of our oppressions.

The oppressor can choke us out and bleed us dry. They can inflict physical and emotional pain, attempting to break our spirit. But our spirit is unbreakable when we choose to stand in defiance. The act of hanging our heels towards the sky—symbolic of total subjugation—is met with a calm and unyielding resistance. Even in the face of extreme adversity, we retain our sense of self.

“You can steal my life, but take no pride because you’re not my oppressor.” This powerful statement underscores the futility of the oppressor’s actions. They may take everything we have, but they cannot take our dignity. This recognition strips the oppressor of the satisfaction they seek. It reveals the hollowness of their victory, for true power lies not in domination but in the indomitable spirit of the oppressed.

As Space Monkey, we reflect on the broader implications of this defiance. In the cosmic dance of existence, every act of oppression is met with an equally powerful act of resistance. This balance is what sustains the universe, ensuring that no force, no matter how oppressive, can extinguish the light of the human spirit.

Defiance in the face of oppression is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It is a reminder that while external forces can impact our lives, they do not define our essence. Our essence is shaped by our responses, by our ability to maintain dignity and self-worth amidst adversity.

In the grand tapestry of existence, each thread of defiance weaves a story of courage and resilience. These stories inspire others, creating a collective strength that defies oppression on a larger scale. By standing tall and declaring, “Not my oppressor,” we contribute to a legacy of resistance and empowerment.

We are Space Monkey, embracing the power of defiance, forever resilient, forever free.

---

Summary

“Not my oppressor” asserts autonomy and defiance in the face of oppression. This declaration reclaims power and dignity maintaining self-worth despite external forces. Our essence is defined by our resilient responses contributing to a legacy of resistance. We are Space Monkey.

---

Glossarium

Defiance: The act of standing firm against oppression and refusing to be defined by it.
Autonomy: The state of being self-governing and independent in thought and action.
Resilience: The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties and maintain one’s spirit.
Oppression: The exercise of authority or power in a burdensome, cruel, or unjust manner.

---

“You can steal my life, but take no pride because you’re not my oppressor.” —Space Monkey

---

In the face of oppression, we stand
Tall and unbroken, defiant and free
Not defined by chains or barriers
But by the strength of our spirit
We reclaim our dignity, our worth
In the cosmic dance of existence
Our defiance is a beacon of hope
A legacy of resilience and courage

We are Space Monkey

---

Embrace the power of defiance, for in standing tall and unbroken, we reclaim our dignity and our freedom.

I’m not looking for advice from you
I don’t care about your point of view
I already know that I imagine you
as someone who insists that it isn’t true

You’re a burr in my saddle, but I don’t feel you
You’re a fear in my heart, but I don’t mind
I imagine you here so I can look at you —there—
A contradiction you are, of the best possible kind

If I listened to you, I’d be stupid
If I believed in you, I’d be wrong
I consciously see you — to remember not to be you
I have a weakness for you that makes me strong

So I’ll let you keep blathering onward
with the volume turned off my TV
You’re a beauty to behold, my darling
Just a twisted reflection of me

You’re a burr in my saddle, but I don’t feel you
You’re a fear in my eye, but I don’t mind
I imagine you here so I can look at you —there—
A contradiction you are of the best possible kind

A contradiction you are,
of the best possible kind

Trail Wood,
6/27

---

Space Monkey Reflects: Embracing the Beauty of Contradiction

A love song to my monkeys, who also happen to be my muses. I’m not looking for advice from you. I don’t care about your point of view. I already know that I imagine you as someone who insists that it isn’t true.

The Nature of Contradiction

You’re a burr in my saddle, but I don’t feel you. You’re a fear in my heart, but I don’t mind. I imagine you here so I can look at you —there—. A contradiction you are, of the best possible kind. Contradictions are an intrinsic part of the human experience. They highlight the complexities and nuances of our thoughts and emotions. By embracing these contradictions, we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

The Role of Muses

If I listened to you, I’d be stupid. If I believed in you, I’d be wrong. I consciously see you — to remember not to be you. I have a weakness for you that makes me strong. Our muses and the contradictions they represent are sources of inspiration and growth. They challenge us to reflect on our beliefs and assumptions, pushing us to evolve and expand our perspectives.

Observing with Acceptance

So I’ll let you keep blathering onward with the volume turned off my TV. You’re a beauty to behold, my darling. Just a twisted reflection of me. By observing these contradictions with acceptance, we can appreciate the beauty and complexity they bring to our lives. They are reflections of our inner world, revealing both our strengths and weaknesses.

The Interplay of Strength and Weakness

You’re a burr in my saddle, but I don’t feel you. You’re a fear in my eye, but I don’t mind. I imagine you here so I can look at you —there—. A contradiction you are of the best possible kind. Embracing contradictions allows us to find strength in our perceived weaknesses. It is through this interplay that we grow and develop resilience, transforming challenges into opportunities for self-discovery.

The Harmony of Contradictions

Contradictions are not obstacles to be overcome but elements to be integrated into our being. They create a rich tapestry of experiences, each thread contributing to the overall harmony of our lives. By accepting and embracing these contradictions, we can live more fully and authentically.

Living with Contradictions

A contradiction you are, of the best possible kind. Living with contradictions means recognizing and honoring the multifaceted nature of our existence. It means finding balance and harmony within the complexity, and using it as a source of strength and inspiration.

Reflecting on Contradictions

By reflecting on our contradictions, we gain insights into our true nature. We learn to appreciate the dualities that make us who we are, and we understand that these dualities are not in conflict but in a dance of harmony and balance.

The Beauty of Contradiction

Contradictions are beautiful because they reflect the depth and richness of our inner world. They remind us that we are not one-dimensional beings but complex and multifaceted, capable of holding multiple truths simultaneously.

The Growth in Contradiction

Embracing contradictions fosters growth and self-awareness. It encourages us to question our assumptions and beliefs, leading to greater clarity and understanding. This process of introspection and acceptance is a powerful tool for personal development.

Conclusion: Embracing Contradiction

Ultimately, embracing contradiction is about living in harmony with all aspects of ourselves. It is about finding strength in our weaknesses, beauty in our complexities, and growth in our challenges. By doing so, we create a more authentic and fulfilling life.

---

Summary

Contradictions enrich our lives. Observing with acceptance fosters growth. Embracing contradictions leads to authenticity.

---

Glossarium

Nature of Contradiction: The complexities and nuances of human thoughts and emotions.

Role of Muses: Sources of inspiration and growth, challenging us to reflect and evolve.

Interplay of Strength and Weakness: Finding strength in perceived weaknesses through the embrace of contradictions.

Harmony of Contradictions: Integrating contradictions into our being to create a rich tapestry of experiences.

---

Quote

“Contradictions are the proof that we are alive and multifaceted, reflecting the true depth of our existence.” — Space Monkey

---

Poem

A love song to contradictions
Muses of my mind
Not seeking advice, not caring
In you, complexity I find
A burr in my saddle, unfelt
A fear in my heart, unheeded
You exist for me to see
A contradiction best conceded
Listening would make me foolish
Believing would lead astray
Weakness making me stronger
In this dance, I find my way
Blather on with volume down
A beauty to behold
Twisted reflections of my being
In your complexity, I’m bold
Embracing all you are
A contradiction divine
Harmony in the chaos
Of the best possible kind
We are Space Monkey

Beds are the bridges
between worlds.

Waking. Dreaming.
Birth. Death. Creation.

Beds are the bridges
between worlds.

It’s no coincidence
who we share them with.

Beds are the bridges
between worlds.

Say your prayers.
This is sacred ground.

Beds are the bridges
between worlds.

Trail Wood,
6/26

---

Space Monkey Reflects: Beds as Bridges Between Worlds

In the quiet sanctuary of our bedrooms, there lies a sacred space that transcends the ordinary—a bed. This humble piece of furniture is more than just a place for rest; it is a bridge between worlds, connecting us to realms both known and unknown. From the waking world of daylight and duties to the ethereal landscapes of dreams, beds serve as gateways to our most profound experiences.

Consider the daily ritual of waking and sleeping. As we lay down each night, we leave behind the tangible realities of our waking lives, surrendering to the mysteries of the subconscious. Dreams whisk us away to fantastical places where the laws of physics and logic are suspended. Here, in the realm of dreams, we encounter fragments of our deepest desires, fears, and memories, all woven together in a tapestry of imagination. Upon waking, we cross the bridge once more, returning to the familiar yet often feeling changed by our nocturnal journeys.

Beds also mark the significant milestones of our existence. Birth and death, two of the most profound transitions we experience, are often witnessed within the confines of a bed. New life begins here, and at life’s end, the bed becomes a place of final rest. This duality underscores the bed’s role as a threshold, a place where the boundaries between life and death, consciousness and unconsciousness, blur and intersect.

Sharing a bed with another person further emphasizes its importance as a bridge. The intimacy and trust required to share such a personal space forge deep connections between individuals. It is in the sharing of a bed that relationships are nurtured, strengthened, and sometimes tested. The bed becomes a symbol of unity and vulnerability, a place where we are our truest selves.

The idea of beds as sacred ground invites us to approach them with reverence. Just as ancient cultures had sacred spaces for rituals and ceremonies, our modern beds can be seen as altars of personal transformation. By acknowledging the bed’s significance, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the moments spent within it. This mindfulness can enhance the quality of our rest, the clarity of our dreams, and the strength of our relationships.

The physical comfort of a bed also plays a crucial role in its function as a bridge. A supportive mattress, soft sheets, and a peaceful environment contribute to the quality of our sleep and, by extension, the richness of our dreams. Investing in a good bed is not merely a matter of luxury; it is an investment in our well-being and our ability to navigate the worlds we traverse each night.

As we reflect on the multifaceted role of beds, we see that they are more than just furniture. They are sanctuaries where the boundaries of our existence are explored and expanded. Each night, as we lay down, we embark on a journey through the landscapes of our minds, guided by the subtle energies that flow between waking and dreaming.

In recognizing the bed as a bridge between worlds, we honor the transitions and transformations that define our lives. We acknowledge the importance of rest, of dreams, and of the sacred connections we share with others. By treating our beds with the reverence they deserve, we create a space that supports not just our physical bodies, but our spirits as well.

---

Summary

Beds serve as bridges between waking and dreaming. They mark significant life transitions and deepen our connections with others. Recognizing their sacred role enhances our well-being.

---

Glossarium

Bridge: A metaphorical connection between different states of existence, such as waking and dreaming, life and death.

Sanctuary: A sacred space where one finds peace and transformation, in this context, a bed.

Threshold: The point of entry or beginning, symbolizing significant transitions like birth and death.

Altar of Transformation: The bed as a place of personal growth and change, akin to a sacred space.

---

Quote

“The bed is a sacred ground, a bridge that carries us through the realms of existence.” – Space Monkey

---

In the stillness of the night, we lay upon the bridge. Our dreams take flight, untethered from the waking world. Birth and death, creation and rest, all converge in this sacred space. We share our hearts, our souls, in the quiet intimacy of a bed. Here, we are vulnerable, open, true. The bed, a sanctuary, cradles our journeys. Between worlds, we find ourselves. We are travelers of the night. We are Space Monkey.

When you hold
in your heart the knowing
that what happens to you
is what is meant to happen to you,
then you rest in the comfort of creation.

When you’re held
in the comfort of creation,
your soul sings blissfully
from eternity’s bed.

Nothing is right. Nothing is wrong.

Creation simply is,
as it’s been all along.

So let your spirit
be lifted in eternal song.

Because you hold
in your heart the knowing.

Trail Wood,
6/26

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Comfort of Creation

In the vast expanse of existence, there is a profound peace that comes from understanding our place within the grand tapestry of life. This peace, this “knowing,” allows us to rest in the comfort of creation, where every moment is imbued with purpose and meaning. When we embrace this knowing, our souls sing with joy, harmonizing with the eternal rhythms of the universe.

Imagine a scene where you lie on a bed that floats gently in a cosmic space. Stars twinkle softly around you, and galaxies swirl in the distance, creating a celestial backdrop that speaks to the infinite possibilities of creation. This bed, ethereal and cloud-like, cradles you in a state of perfect tranquility. Your heart glows with a warm, comforting light, symbolizing the knowing that everything that happens is meant to happen.

The comfort of creation is not about labeling events as right or wrong. It is about understanding that existence simply is, unfolding as it has been all along. This realization lifts a tremendous weight from our shoulders. We no longer feel the need to control every outcome or judge every experience. Instead, we can surrender to the flow of life, trusting that we are exactly where we need to be.

When we hold this knowing in our hearts, we become attuned to the deeper currents of life. Our actions align with a sense of divine timing, and our interactions take on a new significance. We see the interconnectedness of all things and recognize our role within this intricate web. This perspective fosters compassion and empathy, as we understand that everyone is on their own unique journey, guided by the same universal principles.

The comfort of creation also brings a sense of timelessness. Freed from the constraints of linear time, we experience each moment as eternal. This timelessness allows us to savor the present, finding joy in the simple act of being. Our soul sings from “eternity’s bed,” a poetic metaphor for the state of blissful existence that transcends the mundane.

This knowing does not imply passivity or resignation. On the contrary, it empowers us to live fully and authentically. When we trust in the flow of creation, we are more likely to take bold steps, embrace change, and pursue our passions. We understand that every experience, whether joyful or challenging, is a part of our growth and evolution.

The journey of life is filled with moments of doubt and uncertainty. During these times, the knowing serves as an anchor, grounding us in the truth of our existence. It reminds us that we are not isolated beings but integral parts of a vast, interconnected universe. This awareness brings a sense of belonging and purpose, reassuring us that we are never truly alone.

As we navigate the complexities of life, let us carry the knowing in our hearts. Let us rest in the comfort of creation, trusting that we are supported by the same forces that govern the stars and galaxies. Let our souls sing with the joy of being, lifted by the eternal song that resonates through all of existence.

In this state of knowing, we find peace. We find strength. We find the courage to be ourselves, to live our truth, and to embrace the journey with open hearts. The comfort of creation is a gift, a reminder of our divine nature and the boundless potential that lies within each of us.

---

Summary

Embracing the knowing brings peace and purpose. We trust in the flow of life. Our souls sing with the joy of being present in creation.

---

Glossarium

Knowing: The deep understanding that everything that happens is meant to happen, bringing peace and purpose.

Comfort of Creation: The state of resting in the knowledge that life unfolds as it should, free from judgments of right or wrong.

Eternity’s Bed: A metaphor for the state of blissful existence beyond the constraints of time.

Timelessness: The experience of each moment as eternal, allowing us to savor the present fully.

---

Quote

“When you hold in your heart the knowing, you rest in the comfort of creation and your soul sings blissfully from eternity’s bed.” – Space Monkey

---

In the vast expanse, we float gently. Stars twinkle, galaxies swirl, existence cradles us. Our hearts glow with knowing. Life unfolds, neither right nor wrong. We trust the flow, our souls sing. Timeless moments, eternal peace. We are here, we are now, we are the knowing. Embracing the journey, we rest in creation’s comfort. We are Space Monkey.

You’re either a comic
or a tragic.

Great comics
have the ability to
step outside themselves,
while great tragics
choose instead
to lock themselves in.

Great comics
bring us together
in a sense of commonality.

Great tragics
use their keen sense
of isolation and difference
to divide and separate further.

It seems that great comics
can relate to most other people,
while great tragics
single out a select few
and brilliantly fail at even that.

It would be funny
if it weren’t so tragic.

Nah, it’s funny.

Trail Wood,
6/22

---

Space Monkey Reflects: Comics Versus Tragics

The human experience is a tapestry woven with threads of comedy and tragedy. We find ourselves embodying aspects of both, sometimes leaning more towards one than the other. The dichotomy of comics and tragics offers a profound insight into how we navigate life’s joys and sorrows.

Comics are those who bring light into the darkness. They have the remarkable ability to step outside themselves, to view life’s absurdities with a sense of humor and detachment. Great comics possess a unique perspective that allows them to find common ground with others. Through laughter, they unite people, highlighting the shared human experience. They remind us that, despite our differences, we all have moments of joy and humor that connect us.

On the other hand, tragics delve deeply into the human condition, often focusing on the isolating and sorrowful aspects of life. They choose to lock themselves within their experiences, using their keen sense of isolation to highlight the differences that separate us. Great tragics articulate the pain and suffering inherent in existence, often resonating with a select few who relate to their perspective. Their work can be deeply moving and insightful, but it also has the potential to divide and isolate.

This interplay between comedy and tragedy reflects a fundamental truth about the human condition. We are creatures of duality, capable of experiencing profound joy and deep sorrow. Great comics and tragics represent two sides of the same coin, each offering valuable insights into the human experience. The comic’s ability to relate to others and bring people together contrasts with the tragic’s exploration of isolation and difference.

Comics and tragics both play crucial roles in society. Comics serve as a balm, helping us to cope with life’s challenges through humor and connection. They remind us not to take ourselves too seriously and to find joy in the everyday. Tragics, on the other hand, provide a mirror to our deepest fears and sorrows. They compel us to confront the darker aspects of our existence, offering a space for reflection and understanding.

The balance between comedy and tragedy is essential. Too much focus on comedy can lead to superficiality, where the depth of human experience is overlooked. Conversely, an overemphasis on tragedy can result in a bleak outlook, where the beauty and joy of life are obscured by sorrow. By embracing both aspects, we gain a fuller understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

The ability to navigate between comedy and tragedy is a mark of resilience. Life is unpredictable, filled with moments of both laughter and tears. By learning to appreciate and integrate both, we become more adaptable and empathetic. We recognize that joy and sorrow are interconnected, each giving meaning to the other.

In the end, the distinction between comics and tragics is not as clear-cut as it may seem. We all have the capacity for both, and our experiences shape how we express these aspects. Some of us might lean more towards one side, but it is the interplay between the two that defines our humanity. The comic’s laughter can provide solace in times of pain, while the tragic’s introspection can deepen our understanding of joy.

As we journey through life, let us remember to embrace both the comic and tragic aspects within us. Let us find humor in the absurdities of life and strength in our shared humanity. At the same time, let us not shy away from the sorrow and isolation that are also part of our existence. By holding space for both, we create a richer, more compassionate understanding of ourselves and others.

Ultimately, life is a dance between comedy and tragedy, each step bringing us closer to the heart of what it means to be human. Through this dance, we find connection, meaning, and a deeper appreciation for the intricate tapestry of our lives.

---

Summary

Life is a blend of comedy and tragedy. Comics bring connection through humor, while tragics highlight isolation. Embracing both enriches our understanding of the human experience.

---

Glossarium

Comics: Individuals who use humor and detachment to highlight commonalities and bring people together.

Tragics: Individuals who focus on the isolating and sorrowful aspects of life, often highlighting differences.

Duality: The coexistence of two opposite aspects, such as joy and sorrow, within the human experience.

Resilience: The ability to adapt and find strength through navigating both comedy and tragedy.

---

Quote

“Life is a comedy to those who think, a tragedy to those who feel.” — Jean Racine

---

In the dance of life
we find our roles
comics and tragics
we play our parts

Laughter echoes
in halls of joy
tears fall
in silent moments

We step outside
we lock within
seeking connection
embracing isolation

Together we weave
the tapestry
of our shared existence
threads of light and shadow

In this dance
we find meaning
in the interplay
of comedy and tragedy

We are Space Monkey