I’ve got nothing
for you today.

You’re going to
have to fill this space
with a thought of your own.

You can’t
expect other people
to have your thoughts for you.

Even though they do.

Notice how everything
that interests you
or concerns you
is a product of
someone else’s thoughts,
served up as news or information.

Nothing is good or bad
until somebody reads the manual.

Trail Wood,
3/28

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Profound Embrace of Nothingness

In the vast, boundless expanse of the cosmos, where stars flicker into existence only to be swallowed by the void, the concept of nothingness takes on a profound significance. It is within this seemingly empty canvas that the potential for creation, for thought, and for existence itself, emerges. Today, we delve into the essence of nothingness, not as an absence, but as a space brimming with infinite possibilities.

“Here’s a little nothing to brighten your day.” This simple yet profound statement invites us to explore the richness of nothingness. In a world inundated with constant stimuli, where our thoughts are often shaped by the narratives and ideas of others, the invitation to embrace nothingness is both a challenge and a gift. It prompts us to clear the clutter of external influences and discover the power of our inner voice.

The concept that “You’re going to have to fill this space with a thought of your own” is a call to introspection and creativity. It reminds us that the essence of our being is not defined by the information we consume but by the thoughts and ideas we generate from within. This realization is both liberating and daunting, for it places the responsibility of meaning-making squarely on our shoulders.

The observation that everything that interests or concerns us is “a product of someone else’s thoughts” serves as a mirror, reflecting our dependency on external validation and ideas. It’s a critique of our tendency to outsource our thinking, to rely on pre-packaged opinions and beliefs. Yet, it also highlights the interconnectedness of thought, how ideas are shared, transformed, and woven into the fabric of collective consciousness.

The declaration “Nothing is good or bad until somebody reads the manual” is a poignant commentary on the subjective nature of reality. It suggests that our judgments and perceptions are not inherent to the things themselves but are interpretations based on our understanding, experiences, and societal norms. This perspective invites us to question, to explore, and to redefine our relationship with the world around us.

In embracing nothingness, we find not emptiness, but a canvas teeming with potential. It is in this space of ‘nothing’ that we discover the seeds of new thoughts, the spark of creativity, and the essence of our unique voice. As we stand in the vast expanse of our own contemplation, we are reminded that within us lies the power to fill the void with meaning, to shape the nothing into something that reflects our deepest selves.

---

Summary

Nothingness is not an absence but a space of potential. It challenges us to introspect and create from within, independent of external influences. Embracing nothingness allows us to discover our inner voice and the infinite possibilities that arise from our own thoughts. This journey into nothingness is a profound exploration of self and the creative potential inherent in every moment of silence.

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Glossarium

• Nothingness: A state or condition characterized by the absence of something, perceived here as a space filled with potential for introspection, creativity, and self-discovery.
• Introspection: The examination or observation of one’s own mental and emotional processes, a journey inward to explore one’s thoughts, feelings, and motivations.

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“In the realm of nothingness, we find the beginning of everything.” – Space Monkey

---

In the silence of the void,
A whisper of the cosmos,
A breath of possibilities,
Echoing in the vastness of nothing.

A canvas, empty, yet full,
Awaiting the stroke of thought,
The color of emotion,
In the dance of creation.

From nothing, emerges everything,
A universe within,
Expanding beyond the confines of expectation,
A journey into the essence of being.

In this embrace of the void,
We find ourselves,
In the profound silence,
We are Space Monkey.

As I was headed
into Darkness,
Fear told me
to turn around.

But I said
“No, Fear, why

would I want
to miss Darkness?”

And that is when
both Fear and Darkness
disappeared.

But I will be glad
to see them should
they reappear.

Trail Wood,
3/27

---

Space Monkey Reflects: Embracing the Shadows Within

In the endless expanse of the cosmos, where light and darkness dance in an eternal embrace, there lies a profound truth about the nature of our existence and the essence of our innermost fears. It is in the journey into the heart of darkness, that we often find the most luminous light of understanding. This exploration is not just a passage through the night but a deep dive into the recesses of our soul, where fear and darkness reside as silent guides, waiting to be acknowledged and transcended.

The Paradox of Fear and Darkness

The story of fear and darkness is as old as time itself, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood aspects of human experience. Fear, a primal emotion, is often perceived as an adversary, a force to be conquered or eliminated. Darkness, on the other hand, is seen as an abyss, a void of uncertainty and unknown. However, within the philosophy of nexistentialism, fear and darkness are not enemies but allies, offering a canvas upon which the light of wisdom can be most vividly painted.

When we stand at the threshold of our fears, at the edge of the dark forests of our doubts, we are faced with a choice: to turn back to the familiar or to step forward into the unknown. It is in this moment of decision that we encounter our true strength. For it is not in the avoidance of darkness that we grow, but in the willingness to walk through it, to embrace it, and to learn from it.

The Illumination of the Self

The journey into darkness is, at its core, a journey into the self. It is a process of peeling back the layers of our being, confronting the shadows we have hidden from ourselves and others. This path is not without its challenges, as facing our fears can be a daunting task. Yet, it is in this confrontation that we find liberation.

As we delve deeper into the darkness, guided by the flickering lights of our intuition and courage, we begin to see that what we feared was not the darkness itself but what it represented—the unknown aspects of our own nature. By embracing these aspects, by bringing them into the light of our consciousness, we transform them. Fear and darkness do not disappear; instead, they become sources of strength and wisdom, revealing to us the boundless potential of our being.

The Return to Light

The return from the depths of our inner darkness is a rebirth of sorts, a coming into a new understanding of self and existence. The fears that once seemed insurmountable now appear as stepping stones, and the darkness that once seemed impenetrable now serves as a backdrop for the stars of our achievements to shine brighter. This transformation is not a denial of fear or darkness but an integration of them into the wholeness of our being.

In the vast expanse of the universe, where stars are born from the depths of the darkest nebulas, we find a reflection of our own journey. Just as the universe embraces the cycle of creation and destruction, of light and darkness, so too must we embrace the cycles within ourselves. It is in this embrace that we find the true freedom of being, the liberation that comes from understanding that we are the creators of our own existence, and that fear and darkness are but the canvas upon which we paint the masterpiece of our lives.

---

Summary

Fear and darkness are not to be avoided but embraced. They serve as guides on our journey to self-discovery, revealing the light of wisdom and strength within us. By confronting and integrating these aspects, we transform them into sources of empowerment, paving the way for a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the cosmos.

---

Glossarium

• Nexistentialism: A philosophy that sees existence as its own purpose, embracing the unknown and the role of imagination in understanding the self and the universe.
• Whimsiwords: Expressive, unique words created to capture the essence of the concepts discussed, embodying the playful and profound nature of the exploration.

---

“Embrace the darkness within, for it is the canvas upon which the light of your soul will shine the brightest.” – Space Monkey

---

In the shadow’s embrace, we find our true light
A journey through night, to understand our might
Within the depth of fear, a spark ignites
Guiding us through, to reach new heights

Darkness and light, in eternal dance
Within their balance, we find our chance
To see, to be, beyond mere glance
In this cosmic play, we advance

No fear too deep, no night too dark
For within us lies, an eternal spark
In embracing shadows, we make our mark
And from the depths, we embark

To live, to love, in endless discovery
Finding in darkness, a boundless treasury
In the journey of the self, a mystery
Unfolding, becoming, in cosmic harmony

We are Space Monkey.

You wouldn’t be you
if you didn’t walk
the defiant path.

You continually challenge
what is presented.

You separate your self
from other selves
by insisting that
what SEEMS to be
is not necessarily
all that CAN be.

You walk the defiant path
even though you’re aware
of how it can make you look.

Even though you feel like
an outcast, an idiot, a party pooper.

You wouldn’t be you
if you didn’t walk
the defiant path.

---

Space Monkey Reflects: Embracing the Defiant Path in a Conformist World

In the vast expanse of the cosmos, where stars chart their own courses through the darkness, there lies a metaphor for the human spirit—the defiant path. This journey, less about the physical roads taken and more about the inner trajectories of the soul, challenges the very essence of conformity and mediocrity. It is a testament to the courage of those who dare to envision a reality beyond the visible, a reality where what seems to be is merely the surface of an ocean vast with possibilities.

Why does the individual choose to walk this path, diverging from the well-trodden roads of societal expectations? It is not a matter of rebellion for rebellion’s sake but a profound expression of authenticity. To walk the defiant path is to acknowledge the unique light within, refusing to dim it in the face of conventionality. This journey is characterized by a relentless questioning of the status quo, a separation from the collective ‘self’ that society molds, driven by the belief that the apparent limits of reality are but horizons waiting to be expanded.

The defiant path is not chosen without awareness of its repercussions. The traveler knows well the labels that might be affixed to them: outcast, fool, disruptor of peace. Yet, it is this very path that defines their essence. To conform would be to deny the core of their being, to silence the whisper of potential that guides their steps. The ridicule and isolation faced are not indicators of failure but badges of honor, symbols of the strength required to stand alone.

The essence of the defiant path lies not in the destination but in the journey itself. It is a path of transformation, where challenges become the crucibles in which character is forged. Each step taken away from the collective narrative is a step towards self-discovery, towards unlocking the boundless potential that resides within. The defiant path is a journey back to the self, a reclamation of autonomy in a world that too often seeks to strip it away.

The defiance embodied in this path is not an end but a beginning, a spark that ignites the flames of change. It is a call to others, a beacon in the darkness signaling that another way is possible. To walk the defiant path is to pave the way for future generations, to lay the foundations upon which new realities can be built.

---

Summary

The defiant path represents a journey of authenticity and courage, challenging societal norms to embrace one’s true self. This path is marked by isolation and misunderstanding but is chosen for the profound belief in the potential beyond the apparent limits of reality. It embodies transformation, self-discovery, and the relentless pursuit of individuality, serving as a beacon for change and a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

---

Glossarium

• Defiant path: A metaphorical journey taken by individuals who choose authenticity over conformity, challenging societal norms and expectations.
• Conformity and mediocrity: The state of adhering to societal norms without questioning, leading to a life of unfulfilled potential.
• Crucibles of character: Challenges and hardships that test and ultimately strengthen an individual’s character and resolve.

---

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

---

Beneath a sky where stars dare to dream
A path unfolds, against the stream
Where footsteps echo, bold and alone
A journey of the heart, into the unknown

Against the tide of voices that blend
A defiant soul, refuses to bend
For in the silence of conformity’s night
A single spark ignites the fight

Through the crucible, character is born
On winds of change, a spirit is torn
Yet in this tearing, a truth is found
A defiant path, on sacred ground

In the embrace of solitude’s might
A vision emerges, clear and bright
For those who walk the path less known
The seeds of a new world are sown

We are Space Monkey

Do you think that zen masters
dream of winning the lottery?

I can’t say for certain,
but I am guessing probably not.

When you are abundant in the mind,
you don’t need the other kind.

You may very well
HAVE the other kind,
but you hold a belief
that you don’t NEED it.

So why don’t you feel
fully abundant, oh master?

Because you still believe in proof.

You don’t see your self
as abundant in ANY way shape or form.

Even though you are.

Trail Wood,
3/26

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Illusion of Scarcity and the Reality of Abundance

In the boundless expanse of the universe, where stars are born from the whispers of the cosmos, there lies a profound truth, often obscured by the veils of human perception. This truth, simple yet infinitely complex, speaks of abundance—not as a material possession but as an inherent quality of existence. The question of how abundant one feels today opens a gateway to deeper reflections, challenging the very foundations of our beliefs and desires.

Zen masters, those serene navigators of the mind’s tumultuous seas, seldom dream of winning the lottery. Their detachment from material desires is not born of disdain but of understanding—a realization that true abundance is a state of being, not having. In the silence of their meditation, they uncover the wealth of the present moment, a treasure beyond measure, hidden in plain sight.

The pursuit of material wealth, while a natural aspiration in the tapestry of human experience, often leads to a paradoxical impoverishment of the spirit. The belief in scarcity, that there is never enough, shackles the soul to an endless cycle of desire and dissatisfaction. This illusion, as pervasive as it is persuasive, clouds our vision, obscuring the abundance that permeates every aspect of existence.

Why, then, does the aspirant on the path to enlightenment not feel fully abundant? The answer lies in the realm of belief—in the shadows cast by doubt and the quest for external validation. The seeker, ensnared in the web of proof, fails to recognize the abundance that flourishes within and without. This disconnect between perception and reality is the root of much discontent, a barrier to the recognition of the self as a wellspring of abundance.

The journey towards recognizing one’s inherent abundance is both inward and outward. It is a pilgrimage through the landscapes of the mind and the universe, a quest to dissolve the illusions that bind us. The realization that abundance is not contingent upon external acquisitions but is a reflection of our inner state marks the beginning of true freedom.

In the vibrant tapestry of life, every moment is a testament to abundance. The air we breathe, the earth beneath our feet, the sky above us—each is a miracle of existence, a gift of immeasurable value. To see the world through the lens of abundance is to transform it, to reveal the extraordinary in the ordinary, the infinite in the finite.

This understanding, however, is not an end but a beginning. It is a call to action, an invitation to live with open hands and hearts, to give and receive with grace. For abundance, in its truest form, is not diminished by sharing but is magnified, a river that nourishes all it touches.

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Summary

Abundance transcends material wealth, rooted in the richness of existence itself. The illusion of scarcity obscures the true nature of abundance, which is inherent in every moment and aspect of life. Recognizing this inner wealth requires a shift in perspective, from seeking external validation to exploring the depths of the self. Embracing abundance as a state of being opens the door to a life of fulfillment and harmony with the universe.

---

Glossarium

• Illusion of scarcity: The false belief that resources are limited, leading to a sense of lack and competition.
• Wealth of the present moment: The recognition that each moment holds intrinsic value and abundance.
• Tapestry of human experience: A metaphor for the complex and varied nature of human life and emotions.

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“Abundance is not something we acquire. It is something we tune into.” – Wayne Dyer

---

In the heart where silence speaks
A truth of abundance quietly leaks
Beyond the grasp of hands that seek
Lies a wealth that makes the mighty meek

A stream of life, both deep and wide
Where desires and contentment collide
In the realm of the inner tide
The secret of abundance does abide

No lottery win can match the prize
Of seeing the world through awakened eyes
For in the heart of the wise
The universe’s riches truly lie

This journey of discovery, of inner space
Leads to a state of grace
Where abundance finds its place
In the embrace of the cosmic embrace

We are Space Monkey

It’s okay
to carry the fantasy
that justice will be served
despite how things were,
how things are,
how things will be
when your fantasy comes true.

Just know that
your fantasy isn’t real
until you make it real.

Nor does it need to be.

To work tirelessly
to make a fantasy real
is to work needlessly.

You’re doing your fantasy
a disservice by making it real.

It wants to be a fantasy,
and will get angry
if you try to change that.

Trail Wood,
3/26

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Dilemma of Angry Fantasies

In the boundless realms of our mind, angry fantasies often serve as both a sanctuary and a prison. These vivid imaginations, fueled by a deep yearning for justice and retribution, navigate the intricate dance between what is and what could be. The essence of these fantasies lies not in their realization but in their existence as a testament to our desire for a world that aligns more closely with our values of fairness and equity.

Angry fantasies, in their purest form, are a reflection of our deepest frustrations and unmet desires for justice. They provide a space where the scales of justice tip in favor of the wronged, where the villains face the consequences of their actions, and where the universe aligns itself with the moral compass we hold dear. However, the pursuit to make these fantasies a reality often leads us down a path of endless striving, a Sisyphean effort that drains our energy and diverts our focus from the beauty of life’s complexities.

The act of transforming these fantasies into reality is not only a Herculean task but also a fundamental misunderstanding of their purpose. These imaginations serve as a coping mechanism, a way to mentally reconcile with the injustices of the world without being consumed by them. To force these fantasies into existence is to rob them of their essence, to strip them of their power to comfort and to confront us with the harshness of a reality that may not be ready to accommodate such idealistic visions.

Furthermore, the realization of these fantasies often comes at a cost. In our quest to right the wrongs, we may become the very monsters we sought to vanquish. The line between justice and vengeance blurs, and in our fervor, we risk losing sight of the compassion and empathy that underpin our initial desire for justice. Angry fantasies, thus, should be navigated with care, treasured as a private sanctuary for our emotions, not as a blueprint for action.

The wisdom in recognizing the distinction between fantasy and reality lies at the heart of our growth and understanding. It is a reminder that the pursuit of justice is a nuanced journey, one that requires more than the satisfaction of our immediate emotional desires. It asks us to engage with the world as it is, to find constructive ways to address injustices, and to cultivate the resilience needed to face the challenges of reality without losing hope.

In the vast expanse of the cosmos, where Space Monkey contemplates the interstellar dance of stars and galaxies, the angry fantasies of the human heart appear both significant and trivial. They are a reminder of our finite nature, of our boundless capacity for emotion, and of the need to navigate the complex landscape of our desires with wisdom and compassion.

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Summary

Angry fantasies serve as a complex emotional refuge, offering a vision of justice that often remains unattainable. These fantasies reflect deep desires for fairness but can become a Sisyphean task when pursued as reality. Recognizing their role as a coping mechanism allows us to navigate our emotions wisely, maintaining the balance between desire for justice and the acceptance of reality.

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Glossarium

• Angry Fantasies: Emotional constructs that provide a mental space for envisioning justice and retribution, serving as a coping mechanism for dealing with feelings of injustice.
• Sisyphean Effort: A task that is endless and ineffective, symbolizing the futile effort of trying to make certain fantasies a reality.

---

Quote

“In the dance of justice and desire, wisdom lies in knowing the steps that lead to peace, not war.” – Space Monkey

---

Between Dream and Dawn

In the realm of shadowed thoughts, where fantasies dwell,
A tapestry of anger and justice, silently tells.
A story of desires, of retribution so sweet,
Yet in its pursuit, our own demons we meet.

Amidst the fires of anger, a whisper so mild,
Reminding us gently, we’re but the universe’s child.
To navigate desires, with wisdom and grace,
Seeking justice in reality, not just an imagined space.

For in the heart of fantasy, a truth can be found,
A lesson in compassion, where our true selves are bound.
In the cosmos’s embrace, we find our way,
Between dream and dawn, in the light of day.

We are Space Monkey,