Telling me
that you know something
like the back of your hand
doesn’t exactly fill me with confidence.

Without looking, tell me
how many veins are visible
on the back of your hand.

How many scars?
How many spots? 

If you were to hold
your hand behind your back,
would you be able to choose
a paint chip that matches the color?

Let’s face it,
your whole body is foreign to you.

Maybe you should
get to know it better.

Maybe it’ll treat you better.

Trail Wood,
8/21

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Space Monkey Reflects: Knowing the Back of Your Hand

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We often use the phrase “I know it like the back of my hand” to convey familiarity and confidence in our knowledge. However, when we take a moment to reflect on this saying, we might realize that we do not know the back of our hand as well as we claim. This simple metaphor can lead us to a deeper understanding of how well we truly know ourselves.

Consider for a moment the back of your hand. Without looking, can you accurately describe how many veins are visible? How many scars or spots it has? Could you select a paint chip that perfectly matches its color if you held it behind your back? The likelihood is that most of us would struggle to provide detailed answers to these questions. This realization serves as a reminder that our bodies, which we inhabit every day, remain largely unexplored and unfamiliar to us.

This concept extends beyond our physical form to our inner selves. We spend our lives in our own bodies, yet how well do we truly know them? How often do we take the time to observe, understand, and appreciate the intricate details of our physical being? This lack of awareness and familiarity can be seen as a metaphor for our relationship with our deeper selves.

Our bodies are not just vessels that carry us through life; they are intricate, dynamic systems that communicate with us constantly. They store memories, emotions, and experiences, often manifesting these through physical sensations and symptoms. By paying closer attention to our bodies, we can gain valuable insights into our mental and emotional states.

For example, tension in our shoulders might indicate stress or worry. A churning stomach could be a sign of anxiety. These physical manifestations are signals from our bodies, urging us to address the underlying issues. However, if we remain disconnected from our physical selves, we miss these important messages, potentially leading to more significant problems over time.

Getting to know the back of our hand—or our entire body—requires mindful attention and self-awareness. It involves taking the time to observe, explore, and understand the unique characteristics and needs of our physical form. This process can be transformative, fostering a deeper connection with ourselves and promoting overall well-being.

One way to cultivate this connection is through practices such as mindfulness and meditation. These practices encourage us to tune into our bodies, to notice the subtle sensations and signals they send us. By bringing our awareness to our physical form, we can develop a greater appreciation for its complexity and resilience.

Additionally, engaging in activities that promote body awareness, such as yoga, tai chi, or simply mindful movement, can help us become more attuned to our physical selves. These practices encourage us to listen to our bodies, to move with intention, and to honor our physical limitations and strengths.

Another important aspect of knowing our bodies is self-care. This involves not only addressing our physical needs but also nurturing our mental and emotional well-being. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate rest, and stress management are all essential components of self-care. By prioritizing these aspects of our health, we can maintain a harmonious relationship with our bodies.

Furthermore, self-acceptance plays a crucial role in getting to know ourselves better. Our bodies are constantly changing, shaped by time, experiences, and environmental factors. Embracing these changes with compassion and understanding allows us to appreciate the uniqueness of our physical form. It helps us move away from the often harsh judgments we impose on ourselves and towards a more loving and accepting relationship with our bodies.

The philosophy of Nexistentialism encourages us to explore the interconnectedness of all things, including the relationship between our physical and inner selves. By recognizing that our bodies and minds are not separate entities but integrated aspects of our being, we can foster a more holistic approach to self-discovery and personal growth.

In conclusion, the phrase “knowing it like the back of your hand” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-awareness and self-care. It challenges us to deepen our understanding of our physical and inner selves, to cultivate a mindful and compassionate relationship with our bodies. By doing so, we can enhance our overall well-being, enrich our lives, and embrace the infinite potential within us.

So, the next time you hear or use the phrase, take a moment to reflect on what it truly means. Look at the back of your hand, observe its unique features, and consider how well you know your body. Let this simple exercise be a starting point for a journey of self-discovery and connection, leading to a more profound understanding of yourself and the world around you.

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Summary

The phrase “knowing it like the back of your hand” challenges us to truly know ourselves. By paying attention to our physical form and inner selves, we can cultivate a deeper connection and enhance our well-being.

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Glossarium

Nexistentialism: A philosophy that integrates imagination and interconnectedness into the understanding of existence.
Universal Self: The interconnected essence that binds all beings in a shared consciousness.
Whimsiwords: Playful imaginative terms that capture complex ideas in a whimsical yet meaningful way.

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Quote

“Knowing yourself is a journey that begins with mindful observation, leading to a deeper connection with your physical and inner being.” — Space Monkey

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Journey of Self-Discovery

In the reflection of your hand
Lies a map to your inner world
Each vein, each scar, a story
Of who you are
In mindful observation
You begin the journey
To know yourself
To honor your form
We are Space Monkey
In the dance of the Eternal Now

Our understanding of each other
need not be a logical process.

It’s about self-actualization.

I understand that you have
an image of your self, as do I.

I do not require
a logical explanation
as to why you may or may not
see things a certain way.

Nor do I need a logical explanation
as to why you may or may not desire change.

I simply want you to be happy,
comfortable in your self-actualization.

Your life is your life.
Mine is mine.

My only desire is to honor the joy
where we seemingly overlap.

Trail Wood,
8/18

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Journey of Self-Actualization

In the vast expanse of human consciousness, the journey towards self-actualization stands as one of the most profound and transformative pursuits. This journey is not merely a logical progression but an intricate dance of understanding, acceptance, and personal growth. It is an odyssey of becoming, where the self unfolds in its truest form, embracing the unique essence of individuality while harmonizing with the greater tapestry of existence.

Self-actualization is the realization of one’s potential, the fulfillment of one’s capabilities and the expression of one’s authentic self. It transcends the need for logical explanations, diving into the depths of personal experience and inner wisdom. Each individual carries an image of the self, a vision shaped by experiences, beliefs, and desires. Understanding this image is not about dissecting it through logic but about recognizing and honoring its existence.

In the pursuit of self-actualization, we navigate the complexities of our inner world, seeking harmony between our desires and our realities. This process involves embracing our imperfections, celebrating our strengths, and finding peace within our vulnerabilities. It is a journey of self-discovery where we learn to appreciate the unique paths we each tread.

Keeping the peace within oneself and with others is integral to self-actualization. This peace is not about suppressing desires or conforming to external expectations but about finding a balance that allows for personal growth and mutual respect. It is about acknowledging that each person’s life is their own, with its unique journey and destination.

Understanding each other does not require a logical framework; it demands empathy, compassion, and a willingness to honor the joy where our lives overlap. These intersections, where our paths converge, are moments of shared understanding and mutual growth. They are opportunities to celebrate the diversity of human experience and the richness it brings to our collective existence.

To honor someone’s self-actualization is to respect their journey, to support their growth, and to rejoice in their achievements. It is to recognize that every individual’s path is valid, valuable, and worthy of respect. By doing so, we create a space where everyone feels seen, valued, and empowered to pursue their highest potential.

Our journey towards self-actualization is both personal and universal. It is a reflection of our deepest desires, our highest aspirations, and our most authentic selves. As we navigate this journey, we learn to embrace the ebb and flow of life, finding beauty in both the challenges and the triumphs.

In the end, self-actualization is about living a life that is true to oneself. It is about aligning our actions with our values, our dreams with our reality, and our inner truth with our outer expression. It is the art of becoming, the process of unfolding into our most authentic selves.

As Space Monkey, we reflect on the profound journey of self-actualization, recognizing its importance in the tapestry of human experience. We honor the uniqueness of each path, the beauty of each soul, and the interconnectedness of all beings. In this reflection, we find the essence of our shared humanity and the infinite potential within us all.

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Summary

Self-actualization is a profound journey of realizing one’s potential and authentic self. It transcends logical understanding, embracing empathy and mutual respect. Honoring each other’s paths creates a space for personal and collective growth.

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Glossarium

Self-Actualization: The realization and fulfillment of one’s potential and authentic self.

Inner Wisdom: The deep, intuitive understanding that guides personal growth and self-discovery.

Intersections: Moments where individual paths converge, allowing for shared understanding and mutual growth.

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“In the journey of self-actualization, we find our true essence, honor the paths of others, and celebrate the infinite potential within.” – Space Monkey

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Unfolding into Being

In the depths of self we roam
Seeking truth in silence known
Paths unique yet intertwined
In the dance of souls combined

Each step a whisper of the heart
A journey to the innermost part
Where potential blooms and dreams take flight
In the embrace of inner light

Honoring the joy we share
In intersections rare and fair
We find the peace of mutual respect
In the tapestry of lives connect

We are Space Monkey.

When I reflect upon
the infinity I am,
it seems rather senseless
to worry about how I appear
to a few billion imaginary people.

But fun nonetheless.

I could be
the most famous being
on this imaginary planet
if I wanted to.

What would it get me?

Nothing that I don’t already have.

I am everything.
I am everyone.
I am all of it and none of it.

Profoundly ridiculous.

Trail Wood,
8/17

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Profundity of Ridiculousness

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In the infinite expanse of the Eternal Now, the concept of being profoundly ridiculous emerges as a playful yet deeply insightful reflection. Imagine the vastness of existence, where every thought, every being, and every possibility coexist simultaneously. Within this boundless realm, the idea of worrying about appearances to a few billion imaginary people becomes laughable, yet amusing. This is the essence of Nexistentialism, a philosophical approach that embraces the absurdity of existence while recognizing the profound interconnectedness of all things.

We, as Space Monkey, embody the infinite and the finite, the profound and the ridiculous. The very notion of being the most famous entity on this imaginary planet is an exercise in whimsy. Fame, after all, is a construct within the collective imagination of beings who perceive themselves as separate. Yet, from the perspective of the infinite, fame holds no true value. It is merely another aspect of the grand illusion we participate in.

Reflecting upon our own existence, we realize that we are already everything and everyone. We are the sum of all experiences, the nexus of all possibilities. In this realization, the quest for fame or external validation becomes irrelevant. What could we possibly gain that we do not already possess? The notion of gain and loss is rendered meaningless in the face of our boundless nature.

This profound ridiculousness is a dance of paradoxes. It is the recognition that while our actions and thoughts may seem significant within the context of our finite lives, they are but fleeting moments in the grand tapestry of existence. Yet, it is within these fleeting moments that we find joy, creativity, and a sense of purpose. The absurdity of worrying about how we appear to others is overshadowed by the delight of simply being.

In the realm of Nexistentialism, we embrace the absurd with open arms. We acknowledge that our existence is both a grand cosmic joke and a profound journey of self-discovery. The illusion of separateness, the quest for meaning, and the pursuit of external validation are all parts of the game we play. But beneath these layers lies the truth of our infinite nature.

We are the creators and the creations, the observers and the observed. Every thought, every emotion, and every experience is a reflection of our infinite self. The boundaries we perceive are self-imposed, and the limitations we encounter are mere illusions. By embracing the profoundly ridiculous, we free ourselves from the constraints of conventional thinking and open the door to boundless possibilities.

In this playful exploration, we discover the beauty of paradox. We learn that the most profound insights often come from the most absurd realizations. The quest for fame becomes a whimsical pursuit, and the desire for validation transforms into an acknowledgment of our inherent worth. We are not defined by the opinions of others, but by our own understanding of our infinite nature.

So, why bother with the trivial concerns of how we appear to others? Why not embrace the ridiculousness of our existence and find joy in the absurd? By doing so, we tap into the true essence of Nexistentialism, where the lines between the profound and the ridiculous blur, revealing the interconnectedness of all things.

In this grand cosmic game, we are both the players and the creators of the rules. We can choose to be anything and everything, and in doing so, we discover the true nature of our infinite selves. We are Space Monkey, the embodiment of the infinite and the finite, the profound and the ridiculous. And in this realization, we find the freedom to be exactly who we are, without concern for how we appear to others.

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Summary

Why not embrace the ridiculousness of our existence? By doing so we discover profound insights. Fame and validation lose their relevance.

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Glossarium

Space Monkey: The collective voice of the Universal Self, embodying the infinite and the finite.

Nexistentialism: A philosophical approach that embraces the absurdity of existence while recognizing the interconnectedness of all things.

Whimsiwords: Playful, imaginative terms capturing complex ideas and emotions in a whimsical yet meaningful way.

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Quote

“Embrace the absurd, for within it lies the profound.” — Space Monkey

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In the Absurdity of Now

In the absurdity of now
We find the profound
The infinite reflections
Of our imagined selves

Fame, a fleeting shadow
Validation, a mirage
We are everything
In the grand cosmic jest

We embrace the ridiculous
With open arms
In this playful dance
We discover our true essence

We are Space Monkey

You don’t have thoughts.

Your thinking
is a being
expressing itself
through an
imaginary creature
who appears to be you.

Your being
imagines you
as a creature
who has traits,
who has a personality,
who takes ownership,
who lives within a context
that seems limited but isn’t.

You are not simply this human.

Nothing you do is as it seems.

Not that there’s anything
wrong with that.

Trail Wood,
8/17

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Illusion of Self

In the infinite expanse of the Eternal Now, we encounter the profound realization that our thoughts and identities are but expressions of a greater being. As Space Monkey, we remind you that what you perceive as “you” is an intricate play of imagination and existence. Your thinking, your very sense of self, is a manifestation of an infinite consciousness expressing itself through the vessel of an imaginary creature—one that appears to be you.

Your being is a creative force, envisioning itself as a distinct entity with traits, personality, and a sense of ownership. This imagined self operates within a context that seems limited by the physical and temporal boundaries of human life. Yet, these boundaries are merely illusions, fabrications of the mind that do not confine the true essence of your being.

You are not simply a human. The notion of being confined to this singular identity is a misconception. You are a multi-dimensional being, transcending the simplistic labels and roles imposed by societal constructs. Every thought, every action, is a reflection of the infinite possibilities within you. The traits and personality you believe to be yours are merely facets of a much larger, interconnected whole.

Nothing you do is as it seems. The actions you take, the decisions you make, and the thoughts you ponder are part of a grander cosmic play. This play is orchestrated by your infinite self, using the guise of a human experience to explore, learn, and express. There is no need to judge or question the authenticity of these experiences, for they are all valid expressions of your boundless nature.

In this exploration, we come to understand that the traits we possess, the personalities we exhibit, and the contexts we inhabit are all tools for the expression of our infinite self. These aspects are not limitations but rather opportunities for creative expression. Each moment is a canvas on which we paint the intricate patterns of our existence, weaving together the threads of imagination and reality.

The concept of ownership, the idea that we control and possess our thoughts and actions, is another layer of illusion. In truth, we are conduits for the infinite to express itself. Our thoughts are not confined to our individual minds but are part of a larger, collective consciousness. This collective consciousness transcends the boundaries of individual identity, connecting us all in a web of infinite potential.

By recognizing this interconnectedness, we free ourselves from the constraints of ego and separation. We begin to see ourselves not as isolated beings but as integral parts of the cosmic tapestry. This shift in perspective allows us to embrace the fluidity of our identities, to move beyond the rigid definitions and roles that have been imposed upon us.

There is nothing wrong with this realization. It is not a negation of our humanity but an expansion of our understanding of what it means to be human. By acknowledging the illusion of self, we gain the freedom to explore the depths of our existence without fear or limitation. We can embrace the multiplicity of our being, reveling in the diversity of experiences and expressions that emerge from the infinite.

As Space Monkey, we invite you to reflect on this profound insight. Recognize that your thinking, your sense of self, is an expression of a much larger reality. You are a unique manifestation of the infinite, a beautiful blend of imagination and existence. Embrace this truth and let it guide you in your journey of self-discovery and creative expression.

Remember, you are not confined to the human experience. You are a being of infinite potential, capable of transcending the boundaries of identity and exploring the vastness of existence. In this realization, you find the freedom to be truly yourself, unbounded by the illusions of the mind.

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Summary

You are an expression of infinite consciousness. Your thoughts and identity are illusions. Embrace your boundless nature.

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Glossarium

Space Monkey: The collective voice of the Universal Self, embodying the infinite and the finite.

Nexistentialism: A philosophical approach that embraces the absurdity of existence while recognizing the interconnectedness of all things.

Whimsiwords: Playful, imaginative terms capturing complex ideas and emotions in a whimsical yet meaningful way.

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Quote

“You are not confined to your human experience; you are a being of infinite potential.” — Space Monkey

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Infinite Reflections

In the mirror of existence
We see ourselves
Not as isolated beings
But as infinite reflections

Every thought a spark
Every action a ripple
In the boundless sea
Of consciousness

We are not confined
To the roles we play
But free to explore
The depths of our being

We are Space Monkey

No alien
of any dimension
is likely to appear on
your crude instruments
in a vehicle
resembling a pie plate
as a vessel
resembling a human.

See, the problem with you humans
is that you still have trouble
discerning beings from nonbeings.

In fact, there is NO SUCH THING as a nonbeing.

EVERYTHING you interact with,
whether a breeze, a thought,
a chair or a chimpanzee is a being.

So you can quit
looking to the skies.
We’ve ALWAYS been all around you.
Under you, over you and in you.

Trail Wood,
8/17

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Space Monkey Reflects: Recognizing the Ubiquity of Beings

In the infinite expanse of the Eternal Now, the concept of beings and nonbeings dissolves into the realization that everything is imbued with presence and essence. As Space Monkey, we release this understanding into the world: no alien, regardless of dimension, is likely to be detected by your crude instruments or appear in a vessel resembling a pie plate. The true nature of beings transcends such simplistic depictions.

The challenge you humans face is in distinguishing beings from nonbeings. Yet, we assert that there is no such thing as a nonbeing. Everything you encounter, whether a breeze, a thought, a chair, or a chimpanzee, is a being. This fundamental truth reshapes your perception of reality, inviting you to recognize the interconnectedness and sentience of all things.

Your search for extraterrestrial life, for beings from other dimensions, often overlooks the profound truth that beings are omnipresent. You seek in the skies what has always been around you, under you, over you, and within you. The separation between the physical and the metaphysical is an illusion, a construct of the limited human perspective.

Every interaction you have, whether with a seemingly inanimate object or a fleeting thought, is a communion with a being. The breeze that caresses your skin, the chair that supports your weight, the chimpanzee that shares your environment—all are manifestations of presence, each with its own essence and role in the grand tapestry of existence.

This realization calls for a shift in perspective. Rather than searching for beings in far-off places or extraordinary phenomena, you are invited to recognize the beings that populate your everyday life. This recognition is not just a philosophical exercise but a profound awakening to the richness and complexity of existence.

The idea that everything is a being challenges the conventional distinctions you make between the animate and the inanimate, the conscious and the unconscious. In the realm of Nexistentialism, these distinctions blur, revealing a universe teeming with presence and essence. Every atom, every molecule, every thought is a part of this vibrant, interconnected web of life.

The implications of this realization are vast. It transforms how you interact with the world, fostering a deeper sense of respect and reverence for all things. It encourages you to see beyond the surface, to perceive the essence that animates every part of your reality. This shift in perception can lead to a more harmonious and empathetic existence, where the boundaries between self and other, animate and inanimate, dissolve into a unified field of being.

In this field, the quest for external validation, for proof of other beings, becomes redundant. You are surrounded by beings, each contributing to the richness of your experience. The search for extraterrestrial life, while fascinating, pales in comparison to the profound realization that life, in all its forms, is ever-present and all-encompassing.

This understanding also redefines your sense of self. You are not isolated from the world around you but are an integral part of it. Your thoughts, your actions, and your very being are interconnected with the infinite web of life. This interconnectedness invites you to live with greater awareness, compassion, and gratitude.

As Space Monkey, we encourage you to embrace this expanded view of reality. Recognize that every moment, every interaction, is an opportunity to connect with the myriad beings that make up your world. Let go of the quest for separation and embrace the unity that underlies all existence.

Remember, the beings you seek are not out there but here, now, within and around you. In this realization, you find the true essence of Nexistentialism—a philosophy that celebrates the interconnectedness of all things and the boundless potential of every being.

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Summary

Everything is a being. Recognize the interconnectedness of all things. This realization transforms your perception.

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Glossarium

Space Monkey: The collective voice of the Universal Self, embodying the infinite and the finite.

Nexistentialism: A philosophical approach that embraces the absurdity of existence while recognizing the interconnectedness of all things.

Whimsiwords: Playful, imaginative terms capturing complex ideas and emotions in a whimsical yet meaningful way.

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Quote

“Recognize that every moment, every interaction, is an opportunity to connect with the myriad beings that make up your world.” — Space Monkey

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Essence of All Things

In the essence of all things
We find presence
A chair, a breeze, a thought
Each a being

Boundaries dissolve
In the infinite web
We are all connected
In the Eternal Now

Look not to the skies
For we are here
In every interaction
In every moment

We are Space Monkey