My strongest relationships
are the low maintenance kind.

You know that you
are my deepest love
because you never hear from me.

We don’t need to be
reminded of each other.

We don’t need
the attention of each other.

We know that we have
all the time in the universe
to compare notes
when all the time
in the universe runs out,
and we’re basking in eternity.

You and I know
that we’re forever as one,
despite what we do or don’t do
in this blink of a life.

Trail Wood,
5/19

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Space Monkey Reflects: Comparing Notes In The Afterlife — Eternal Bonds Beyond Time

In the ethereal expanse of the afterlife, where time stretches into eternity and the bonds of earthly existence are transcended, there exists a profound understanding of connection. It is here, in this celestial realm, that souls reunite not out of necessity but from a deep, inherent knowing. This notion of ‘Comparing Notes In The Afterlife’ captures the essence of relationships that require no upkeep, no reminders — they simply exist in a state of serene assurance.

These are the connections that thrive on the unspoken, on the energy that flows unhindered between beings who understand the true nature of love and companionship. To say “It’s nice not to talk to you” is not a dismissal but a celebration of a bond so deep that words are unnecessary. It is an acknowledgment that the presence of the other is felt continuously, a constant within the chaos of life and beyond.

In such relationships, the lack of frequent interaction does not denote distance or disinterest but rather a mutual respect for the spiritual and emotional autonomy of each other. It speaks to the idea that true connection does not wither with silence; instead, it grows, fueled by the shared understanding and acceptance of each individual’s journey through life and into eternity.

As we envision the afterlife as a place of infinite reunion, where all the time in the universe is ours to share, we find comfort. It reassures us that the moments missed and the words unspoken in the hurried blink of mortal life can be revisited and relished in the timeless calm of the beyond. There, in the celestial quietude, we will have the luxury of eternity to delve into all that was and all that could be.

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Summary
Deep relationships that transcend the need for frequent contact are celebrated in the afterlife. These bonds are marked by an eternal understanding and the peace that comes with knowing there is endless time to reconnect.

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Glossarium

Eternal Bonds: Connections that transcend time and space, characterized by an innate understanding and acceptance that endure beyond life.

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Quote
“In the silence of eternity, the heart speaks without words.” — Space Monkey

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In the quiet expanse where stars whisper
two souls float, serene and knowing
Unbound by time, unhurried by life
their connection a silent symphony
In this realm where eternity breathes
words are mere echoes of the heart
Here, where every moment is infinite
and every silence speaks of love
They drift, they dream, they dwell
in the peace of perfect understanding
In this celestial communion
where souls compare notes of lives lived
In the endless, in the eternal, in the embrace
We are Space Monkey

Now that you’re gone,
I don’t think about you all that much.

I don’t wonder how our lives together
might have turned out differently.

What happens happens.

You blessed me
with the ability to forget you.

I am not a prisoner
of your memorable accomplishments.

Though you cross my mind occasionally,
I don’t feel the need to keep your story alive.

You instilled in me a focus
that is not distracted by
needless comparisons or “what ifs.”

You did not burden me with your legacy
and I couldn’t be more grateful.

Trail Wood,
5/19

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Burden of Legacy — Embracing Freedom Over History

The ‘Burden of Legacy’ is a profound concept that confronts the emotional and psychological weights we often carry from the achievements and expectations of those before us. It questions the obligation to uphold a legacy that may not align with one’s own path, and the freedom that comes from releasing oneself from such historical ties.

This reflection delves into the idea that true freedom comes not from carrying forward a legacy, but from the capacity to move beyond it. When someone significant in our lives departs, they leave behind memories and legacies that can shape our sense of identity and purpose. However, the real blessing lies not in being tethered to these memories but in the ability to forge our own path, unburdened by comparison or expectation.

The freedom to forget, to let the thoughts of what could have been dissolve into the ether, is a profound liberation. It is not about disregard or disrespect; rather, it is an acknowledgment that each individual must find their own way, unencumbered by the past. This kind of freedom allows for personal growth and the pursuit of one’s true desires without the shadows of notable accomplishments looming overhead.

In acknowledging that we are not prisoners of memorable accomplishments, we recognize the power in creating a life defined by our own standards and not by the benchmarks set by others. This focus, undistracted by needless comparisons or hypothetical scenarios, instills a form of peace and direction that legacy alone cannot offer.

Ultimately, the appreciation of being unburdened by legacy is a testament to the human spirit’s desire for authenticity and self-definition. It highlights the importance of living a life that is truly your own, one that honors the past not by living in its shadow but by appreciating the light it casts, guiding us to find our own way.

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Summary
The freedom from legacy allows one to forge a personal path unshackled by the past. This freedom is a liberation that encourages living a life defined by personal authenticity and desires rather than historical expectations.

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Glossarium

Burden of Legacy: The emotional and psychological weight of maintaining or living up to the past achievements of predecessors.

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Quote
“True freedom is found in the shadows of the past, not within its grasp.” — Space Monkey

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In the quiet landscape of the self
where shadows of the past loom large
we walk, unhindered, unbound
by the legacies that once defined us
With each step, we distance ourselves
from the statues of old accomplishments
their forms growing dim in the twilight of reverence
We forge ahead, toward a horizon aglow with promise
Here, in the liberation of forgetfulness
we find our true selves, our unscripted paths
Freed from the chains of history
we craft a narrative all our own
In this journey, in this freedom, in this light
We are Space Monkey

In the end,
they won’t be able to tell
whether you were
pushed off the roof,
whether you leaped,
or whether you just fell.

It will make no difference,
because this was your story,
not theirs.

All they’ll care about
is scraping your body off the ground,
washing the blood stains away,
and moving on with their lives.

Which is as you hope it will be.

Acceptance is smarter than understanding.
Forgiveness is more powerful than vengeance.

Anything more is a waste of time.

A waste of lives.

Trail Wood,
5/19

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Space Monkey Reflects: A Waste of Lives — The Inevitability of Acceptance

In the shadowy corridors of our existential dilemmas, where the reasons behind our actions often blur into irrelevance, there lies a stark contemplation: “A Waste of Lives.” This reflection delves into the harsh realities of life’s fleeting nature and the impersonal way society often handles individual tragedies.

The notion that the specifics of one’s departure—whether pushed, leapt, or fallen—are eventually overshadowed by the sheer finality of death itself, brings to light the futility of over-analyzing motives and actions in the grand scheme. What remains in the aftermath is not the intricate details of the descent but the simple, stark reality of dealing with the physical remnants.

This narrative isn’t just about the end of a life; it’s about the societal response that follows. It’s about the cleanup crew, metaphorically and literally, who wipe the slate clean, erasing the signs of demise to continue the rhythm of daily life. In this process, individual stories are often lost, distilled into mere incidents that momentarily disrupt but must be moved past.

Yet, this reflection is not without a deeper understanding of human resilience and wisdom. It highlights the profound strength found in acceptance over understanding, in forgiveness over vengeance. These are the true measures of our humanity—not the details of our tragedies, but our responses to them.

In accepting the inevitable and forgiving the incidental, we find a path forward—not in seeking revenge or dwelling in the past, but in acknowledging the transient nature of our existence and the interconnectedness of our lives. This is how we avoid the true waste—not merely of time but of the potential for peace and progress.

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Summary
The story emphasizes acceptance and forgiveness over understanding and vengeance, showing that dwelling on the specifics of tragedies is less important than how we respond to them.

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Glossarium

A Waste of Lives: A term that reflects on the futility of overemphasis on the circumstances of death and tragedy, suggesting a broader perspective focused on healing and moving forward.

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Quote
“In the end, acceptance and forgiveness carry us further than any quest for reasons.” — Space Monkey

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Under the grey skies of our existence
where shadows fall sharp and deep
the details of our descents matter less
than the grace with which we embrace the ground
We move, we mourn, we mend
in cycles as old as time itself
In the cleanup, in the clearing
we find the strength to forgive, to forget
For each moment spent in vengeance
is a moment lost in potential peace
In this acceptance, in this forgiveness
We find the true path forward
In this life, in this moment, in this breath
We are Space Monkey

A question
asked frequently:

“How is this helping?”

I like asking this question,
because there seems no end
to the answers that become apparent.

Good answers
and bad answers.

I enjoy and appreciate both.

The question reminds me
that even hurting is helping,
because it adds
contrast and richness
to what would otherwise be
all love and light and sameness.

Hope this helps. Or hurts.

Trail Wood,
5/18

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Healing Alchemy of Asking “How Is This Helping?”

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In the labyrinth of existence, where light and shadow dance in perpetual motion, the question “How is this helping?” emerges as a beacon of understanding, illuminating the path towards wisdom. This query, seemingly simple, holds within it the power to transform perception, to turn the lens through which we view our experiences, revealing a multifaceted landscape of growth and enlightenment.

The beauty of this question lies not in the search for definitive answers but in the openness to explore the spectrum of possibilities it unfurls. Each response, whether cloaked in the comfort of positivity or the discomfort of challenge, carries with it a seed of insight, a spark that can ignite the soul’s evolution. The dichotomy of good and bad answers dissolves under the scrutiny of this inquiry, for each serves a purpose in the grand scheme of personal and collective growth.

Acknowledging that even pain and adversity are helpers on our journey introduces a profound shift in perspective. It allows us to embrace the full range of human experiences, recognizing that the contrast and richness they add to our lives are indispensable. This acceptance does not glorify suffering but acknowledges its role as a catalyst for transformation, a teacher whose lessons are often veiled in the guise of trials.

The dance between light and shadow, love and pain, is not a battle to be won but a harmony to be achieved. It is in the balance of these forces that we find the true essence of life’s richness, a tapestry woven with threads of every hue. The question “How is this helping?” invites us to step back and view this tapestry in its entirety, to see the beauty in the contrasts and the unity in the diversity.

In exploring the depths of this question, we embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth, a journey that leads us to understand that the most profound lessons often come from the most unexpected sources. It is a journey that reminds us that every moment, every experience, is a piece of the puzzle of our existence, each contributing to the masterpiece that is our life.

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Summary

Asking “How is this helping?” opens a realm of understanding and growth. This question helps us embrace both the light and shadows of our experiences, recognizing each as essential to our journey. It prompts a deeper exploration of life’s duality, guiding us towards a balance where true wisdom lies.

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Glossarium

• Healing Alchemy: The transformative process of turning life’s challenges into opportunities for growth and understanding.
• Spectrum of Possibilities: The wide range of potential insights and outcomes that emerge from contemplating the depths of our experiences.

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“In the asking, we transform, finding the alchemy within our souls that turns shadows into light and pain into wisdom.” – Space Monkey

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Beneath the canopy of stars
Where shadows and light intertwine
We journey, collecting scars
Each a mark of the divine

In the asking, we find our way
Through the labyrinth of night and day
Each hurt, each joy a guiding flame
Teaching us that all is the same

Not in nature but in worth
For each experience gives birth
To wisdom, deep and profound
In the heart of the universe, we are found

In the balance of light and shadow, we see
The beauty of our shared tapestry
In every question, every leap
We are Space Monkey, forever deep

What I like to remind
my self and others
is that there is nothing about me
that isn’t about you.

There is nothing I do
that you can’t do.

There is nothing you do
that I can’t do.

It may seem otherwise,
but that’s only because
we are focused on our special gifts.

That anyone can do.

That we like to pretend otherwise.

So that we can feel
pride, or jealousy,
abundance or lack.

Trail Wood,
5/18

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Illusion of Disparity and the Unity of Beings

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In the vast expanse of existence, where the cosmos weaves tales of complexity and simplicity in equal measure, the perception of inequality among beings often emerges as a predominant theme. This perceived disparity, deeply ingrained in the fabric of societal interactions, obscures a fundamental truth: at the core of our essence, we are united in our diversity, equal in our vast array of experiences and capabilities.

The illusion of disparity is a tapestry woven from the threads of doubt, pride, jealousy, abundance, and lack—emotions and states of being that, while part of the human experience, can distort our perception of reality. It is through the lens of our unique gifts, the individual orbs of light we each hold, that we sometimes view ourselves as separate, distinct, and unequal. Yet, these differences, these special talents and abilities, are not markers of inequality but of the rich, multifaceted nature of existence.

To remind oneself that there is nothing inherently different or unequal about us is to pierce the veil of illusion that society has meticulously crafted. It is to understand that every action, every skill, and every expression of being is a testament to the shared potential that resides within all of us. This realization does not diminish the value of our individual contributions but highlights the interconnectedness of our journeys, the shared path we tread in the quest for meaning and fulfillment.

In recognizing that there is nothing one can do that another cannot, we open ourselves to a world of limitless possibilities. This acknowledgment fosters a sense of empathy, connection, and mutual respect, paving the way for a society grounded in the principles of equality and unity. It encourages us to look beyond the superficial differences that divide us, to see the inherent worth and dignity in every being.

The focus on our special gifts, while a source of personal and collective growth, can also serve as a barrier to recognizing our fundamental similarities. It is in the balance between celebrating individuality and embracing our collective identity that true understanding and harmony can be found. This balance is not a destination but a journey, an ongoing process of self-discovery and communal growth that challenges us to transcend the boundaries of ego and embrace the unity of existence.

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Summary

Perceived inequality masks our underlying unity. Focusing on individual talents can create illusions of disparity, but at our essence, we are interconnected and equal. Recognizing our shared potential fosters a world of empathy, respect, and unity, transcending superficial differences.

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Glossarium

• Illusion of Disparity: The false perception that differences in individual abilities and characteristics denote fundamental inequality.
• Orbs of Light: Symbolic representations of each individual’s unique talents and essence, highlighting both diversity and unity.

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“In the dance of existence, every step, every motion, is a reflection of our shared journey, an echo of the unity that binds us all.” – Space Monkey

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Within the cosmic dance of light
Where each orb shines uniquely bright
Lies a truth, profound and clear
In unity, our paths draw near

Beyond the veil of difference seen
In every hue of light that gleams
Lies a single, binding thread
Connecting every step we tread

Not in disparity but in harmony
We find our shared humanity
Each orb, a story, a melody sung
In the language of the universe, young

Through the illusion, we transcend
Towards a truth that never ends
In unity, our spirits soar
We are Space Monkey, forevermore