Cape Odd

If I could sum up
your life in three words,
it would be these:

You want attention.

You want to set yourself apart
from everyone else and be seen as special.

You don’t yet realize
that you’re special
whether you get attention or not.

You actually believe
that you have to claw and fight
your way to attention
and that you’re a failure
if you remain unnoticed.

This may be true.
You may be a failure.
But you are still special.

Newfound Lake,
9/5

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Space Monkey Reflects: Embracing Your Special Nature

In the boundless expanse of the cosmos, where stars shimmer with their unique brilliance and galaxies swirl in endless beauty, the quest to be seen and valued often mirrors our deepest desires. “Special” delves into the intrinsic worth of every individual, highlighting the often misunderstood journey towards recognition and self-acceptance. This reflection invites us to reconsider what it means to be special and to embrace our inherent value, regardless of external validation.

“It’s not a competition unless you buy into the idea. And then you need to make money.” This statement challenges the notion that life is a race to be won or lost. The belief that we must compete for attention and success can lead to a relentless pursuit of validation, often tied to financial gain. However, this perspective overlooks the deeper truth that our worth is not determined by external accolades or material success.

“If I could sum up your life in three words, it would be these: You want attention.” This poignant observation touches on a fundamental aspect of the human experience. The desire for attention is a natural expression of our need for connection and acknowledgment. We seek to be seen and understood, to feel that our existence matters. Yet, this quest for attention can become all-consuming, overshadowing our recognition of our inherent worth.

“You want to set yourself apart from everyone else and be seen as special.” This desire to stand out and be unique is a powerful motivator. It drives creativity, ambition, and the pursuit of excellence. However, it can also lead to feelings of inadequacy and failure when we measure ourselves against others. The belief that we must constantly strive to prove our specialness can create a sense of perpetual competition and discontent.

“You don’t yet realize that you’re special whether you get attention or not.” This revelation is a profound reminder of our intrinsic value. Our specialness is not contingent upon external validation or recognition. It is an inherent quality, rooted in our unique existence and the singular experiences that shape our lives. Recognizing this truth allows us to embrace our worth without the need for constant affirmation from others.

“You actually believe that you have to claw and fight your way to attention and that you’re a failure if you remain unnoticed.” This belief underscores the pressure many feel to assert their presence in a crowded world. The fear of being unnoticed or deemed a failure can drive us to extreme measures, exhausting ourselves in the pursuit of acknowledgment. However, this relentless striving often obscures the simple truth of our inherent specialness.

“This may be true. You may be a failure. But you are still special.” These words offer a nuanced perspective on failure and self-worth. Acknowledging the possibility of failure does not diminish our value. Even in moments of perceived failure, we remain special. Our worth is not defined by our successes or failures but by the unique essence of who we are. Embracing this truth allows us to navigate life with greater resilience and self-compassion.

As Space Monkey, we reflect on the cosmic significance of being special. In the grand tapestry of the universe, each star, planet, and individual plays a unique and irreplaceable role. Our specialness is a reflection of the singularity of our existence and the infinite potential that lies within us. It is not dependent on external validation but is an intrinsic aspect of our being.

Embracing our special nature involves a shift in perspective. It requires us to let go of the need for constant affirmation and to recognize our worth independent of external measures. This shift allows us to live authentically, guided by our inner values and passions rather than the expectations of others. By doing so, we can cultivate a sense of fulfillment and purpose that transcends the fleeting nature of external validation.

In this cosmic journey, we are reminded that our specialness is both a gift and a responsibility. It invites us to contribute our unique talents and perspectives to the world, enriching the collective tapestry of existence. By embracing our inherent worth, we can inspire others to recognize and celebrate their own specialness, fostering a culture of mutual respect and appreciation.

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Summary

“Special” explores the intrinsic value of each individual, challenging the notion that worth is tied to external validation. By recognizing our inherent specialness, we can navigate life with greater self-compassion and authenticity, contributing uniquely to the collective tapestry of existence.

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Glossarium

Intrinsic Worth: The inherent value that each individual possesses, independent of external validation or achievements.

External Validation: The approval or recognition from others, often sought as a measure of self-worth.

Cosmic Tapestry: The metaphorical fabric of existence, where each individual’s unique role contributes to the beauty and complexity of the universe.

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“In the infinite cosmos, each star shines with its own brilliance, just as each individual possesses a unique and intrinsic worth that transcends the need for external validation.” — Space Monkey

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Eternal Brilliance

In the vast expanse of cosmic night,
Each star, a beacon of unique light.
No need to claw or fight for space,
For specialness lies in our own place.

Seeking attention, we often miss,
The quiet truth, the inner bliss.
Inherent worth, a constant flame,
Unaffected by success or fame.

Failures may come, but still we shine,
In the cosmic dance, our light divine.
Embrace your special, timeless grace,
In the universe, find your place.

We are Space Monkey.

I have grown so jaded
that I can no longer tell
who is being genuine
and who is putting on a show.

Seems some people are
meant to be light bearers
and some are meant
to be shade casters.

The problem
is knowing which is which.

The solution
is simply letting it go.

So what if I’m jaded.

Why should I care
if you’re genuine?

Newfound Lake,
9/5

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Duality of Light Bearers and Shade Casters

In the vast, infinite expanse of the cosmos, where stars illuminate the darkness and galaxies whisper their ancient secrets, we encounter the duality of light bearers and shade casters. This cosmic reflection delves into the complexities of human nature, exploring the roles we play and the perceptions we hold. “Light Bearers and Shade Casters” invites us to ponder the interplay between authenticity and deception, clarity and confusion, and the path to finding peace within this duality.

“Enjoy the self-distortion.” This opening statement challenges us to confront our perceptions and the ways in which we interpret the actions of others. Our views are often colored by our experiences, biases, and emotional states, leading to a distorted understanding of reality. This distortion can create a sense of disillusionment and skepticism, making it difficult to discern genuine intentions from false pretenses.

“I have grown so jaded that I can no longer tell who is being genuine and who is putting on a show.” This expression of jadedness reflects a deep-seated weariness and distrust. It is a state of emotional fatigue, where repeated disappointments and betrayals have eroded one’s ability to believe in the sincerity of others. This jaded perspective can create a barrier, preventing us from fully engaging with and appreciating the authenticity that does exist around us.

“Seems some people are meant to be light bearers and some are meant to be shade casters.” This observation suggests a dualistic view of human nature, where individuals are categorized as either sources of illumination or obscurity. Light bearers bring clarity, truth, and positivity, while shade casters sow confusion, deception, and negativity. This dichotomy simplifies the complexity of human behavior, reducing it to a binary framework that may not fully capture the nuances of individual actions and intentions.

“The problem is knowing which is which.” The challenge lies in discerning between these two roles, especially when our perceptions are clouded by past experiences and emotional biases. The task of distinguishing genuine light bearers from shade casters becomes a daunting endeavor, fraught with uncertainty and potential misjudgments.

“The solution is simply letting it go.” This proposed solution advocates for a release of the need to categorize and judge. Letting go of the desire to distinguish between light bearers and shade casters allows us to focus on our own inner light and well-being. It encourages us to relinquish the burden of skepticism and embrace a more accepting and peaceful state of mind.

“So what if I’m jaded. Why should I care if you’re genuine?” These rhetorical questions invite introspection on the importance of authenticity in our interactions. While jadedness may shield us from potential harm, it also isolates us from meaningful connections. By questioning the value we place on authenticity, we can explore the impact of our attitudes on our relationships and our own emotional health.

As Space Monkey, we reflect on the cosmic significance of light bearers and shade casters. In the grand tapestry of the universe, each individual plays a unique role, contributing to the intricate interplay of light and shadow. The duality of human nature is mirrored in the celestial dance of stars and darkness, each element essential to the harmony of the whole.

Embracing the presence of both light bearers and shade casters in our lives involves recognizing the fluidity of human behavior. Individuals may shift between these roles based on their circumstances, experiences, and inner struggles. By acknowledging this fluidity, we can cultivate compassion and understanding, seeing others not as fixed entities but as dynamic beings navigating their own journeys.

Letting go of the need to judge and categorize allows us to focus on our own growth and authenticity. It encourages us to be mindful of our own actions and intentions, striving to be light bearers in our own right. By fostering a sense of inner clarity and positivity, we can influence the world around us in meaningful ways, regardless of the behavior of others.

In the cosmic journey of life, we are reminded that light and shadow are both integral to the experience of existence. Each has its place and purpose, contributing to the richness and complexity of the human condition. By embracing this duality, we find balance and harmony within ourselves and our interactions.

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Summary

“Light Bearers and Shade Casters” explores the duality of human nature, emphasizing the importance of letting go of judgment and embracing both light and shadow. Recognizing the fluidity of human behavior fosters compassion and understanding, while focusing on our own authenticity and growth contributes positively to the world.

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Glossarium

Light Bearers: Individuals who bring clarity, truth, and positivity into the world.

Shade Casters: Individuals who create confusion, deception, and negativity.

Cosmic Tapestry: The metaphorical fabric of existence, where each individual’s role contributes to the harmony and complexity of the universe.

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“In the cosmic dance of light and shadow, each being plays a unique role, illuminating the intricate interplay of human nature and the boundless expanse of existence.” — Space Monkey

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Eternal Duality

In the cosmic night, where stars alight,
Light bearers shine, shade casters blight.
A jaded heart seeks truth in vain,
In shadows deep, in light’s refrain.

Letting go, the path reveals,
The fluid dance, the truth conceals.
In light and shadow, roles we play,
In cosmic dance, both night and day.

Compassion grows as judgment fades,
In every heart, light’s truth invades.
Embrace the dual, find the peace,
In the vast cosmos, tensions cease.

We are Space Monkey.

It’s funny how we recognize
visual reflections but remain
almost completely unaware
of our acoustic mirrors.

We pause to enjoy
the light off the water
or our faces in the mirror,
but do we ever just listen to sound?

Remove your headphones.
Turn off the bluetooth box.

There is so much to see
if only you just listen.

Newfound Lake,
9/5

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Symphony of Silence

In the vast expanse of the cosmos, where stars hum their ancient songs and galaxies whisper through the void, we often overlook the subtle symphony that surrounds us. “Read This To Hear More” invites us to pause and attune our senses to the acoustic wonders of our environment. It challenges us to move beyond visual reflections and embrace the rich tapestry of sounds that fill our world, urging us to listen with intent and discover the beauty in the auditory landscape.

“When it rains, do you appreciate the near drops, the far drops, the echoes of the drops, the spaces between the drops… on and on… or do you simply think ‘it’s raining,’ then look at your phone?” This question prompts us to consider how often we truly engage with our surroundings. Rain, a common occurrence, offers a symphony of sounds that can evoke a range of emotions and reflections. Yet, in our distraction-filled lives, we often reduce this complex auditory experience to a mere background noise, missing the intricate details that make it unique.

“It’s funny how we recognize visual reflections but remain almost completely unaware of our acoustic mirrors.” This observation highlights a common bias towards visual stimuli. We are quick to notice reflections in mirrors, water, and other surfaces, yet we rarely pay attention to the echoes and reverberations that shape our auditory perception. Acoustic mirrors, the sounds that reflect off surfaces and create a rich auditory environment, are often overlooked, yet they hold a wealth of sensory information.

“We pause to enjoy the light off the water or our faces in the mirror, but do we ever just listen to sound?” This contrast underscores the disparity in our engagement with visual versus auditory stimuli. While we take moments to appreciate visual beauty, such as the play of light on water or our reflections, we seldom pause to immerse ourselves in the sounds around us. Listening, truly listening, requires a different kind of attention, one that is often neglected in our visually dominant culture.

“Remove your headphones. Turn off the Bluetooth box.” This call to action encourages us to disconnect from the artificial sounds that often dominate our auditory landscape. Headphones and Bluetooth speakers, while convenient, can create a barrier between us and the natural sounds of our environment. By removing these devices, we open ourselves to the rich, unfiltered symphony of the world around us.

“There is so much to see if only you just listen.” This paradoxical statement encapsulates the essence of acoustic awareness. To “see” through listening is to engage with our environment in a deeper, more mindful way. It is an invitation to explore the world through sound, to appreciate the nuances and subtleties that often go unnoticed. By listening, we can uncover new layers of meaning and connection, enriching our experience of the world.

As Space Monkey, we reflect on the cosmic significance of listening. In the vast universe, sound travels as waves, carrying information and energy across unimaginable distances. The cosmic hum, the echoes of celestial events, and the whispers of distant stars all contribute to the symphony of existence. By tuning in to the sounds around us, we align ourselves with this universal rhythm, finding harmony in the midst of chaos.

Listening, truly listening, is an act of mindfulness. It requires us to be present, to open ourselves to the auditory world without distraction. This practice can deepen our connection to our surroundings and to each other, fostering empathy and understanding. In the quiet moments of listening, we can find clarity and insight, discovering truths that transcend the limitations of language and sight.

The act of listening also invites us to engage with the present moment. Each sound, each note, each echo is a reminder of the here and now, grounding us in the present and connecting us to the flow of time. By embracing this auditory presence, we can cultivate a sense of peace and mindfulness, navigating the complexities of life with greater ease and awareness.

In the grand tapestry of the cosmos, every sound, every echo, every silence plays a role in the symphony of existence. By attuning our ears and our hearts to this cosmic music, we can find our place within it, contributing our own notes to the universal melody. Whether it is the patter of raindrops, the rustle of leaves, or the distant call of a bird, each sound invites us to listen, to reflect, and to appreciate the beauty of the world around us.

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Summary

“Read This To Hear More” encourages a deeper engagement with the auditory landscape, highlighting the often-overlooked beauty of natural sounds. By practicing mindful listening, we can enrich our connection to the present moment and the world around us, uncovering new layers of meaning and harmony.

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Glossarium

Acoustic Mirrors: Sounds that reflect off surfaces, creating a rich auditory environment often unnoticed in daily life.

Mindful Listening: The practice of fully engaging with the sounds around us, fostering a deeper connection to the present moment and our environment.

Cosmic Symphony: The universal harmony of sounds, echoes, and silences that make up the auditory landscape of existence.

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“In the symphony of existence, each sound, each silence, invites us to listen deeply, to attune our hearts and minds to the universal melody that surrounds us.” — Space Monkey

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Echoes of Silence

In the quiet fall of rain,
Near drops, far drops, a soft refrain.
Echoes dance, in spaces clear,
Acoustic mirrors drawing near.

Visual reflections, easily seen,
But sounds that shape the space between.
Pause to listen, hear the call,
In the cosmic symphony, find it all.

Remove the barriers, open wide,
The world of sound, where secrets hide.
In every note, in every tone,
The universe speaks, and we’re not alone.

We are Space Monkey.

Life is filled
with highs and lows.

We love the former
and hate the latter.

Could this be why the latter
seems so much worse than the former?

Lows aren’t bad
unless we impose bad upon them.

Our hate is what makes our lows bad.

As life swings like a pendulum,
it seems unrealistic to expect
the highest of highs without
the lowest of lows.

Thus, it seems perfectly sensible
to change how we feel about our lows.

Removing the curse
of what seems worse.

Newfound Lake,
9/5

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Space Monkey Reflects: Embracing the Pendulum of Highs and Lows

Life, in its intricate dance, swings like a pendulum between highs and lows, moments of soaring joy and depths of despair. This oscillation is not merely a passage through time but a profound exploration of our emotional landscape. In this reflection, we delve into the nature of these extremes, seeking to understand and perhaps even embrace the inevitable fluctuations that define our existence.

The Nature of Highs and Lows

Highs and lows are integral to the human experience. The highs often bring a sense of elation, success, and fulfillment, while the lows can plunge us into sadness, frustration, and doubt. It is tempting to cling to the highs, to wish they could last forever, and to dread the lows as if they are intruders in our otherwise happy lives. However, by examining these emotional states more closely, we can begin to see that both are necessary, each contributing to the richness and depth of our journey.

The Interdependence of Extremes

Highs and lows are interdependent, much like the peaks and valleys of a mountain range. Without the valleys, the peaks would not seem so high; without the highs, the lows would not seem so deep. This interdependence is a fundamental aspect of our existence, reminding us that life is a continuous ebb and flow. Embracing this reality can lead to a more balanced and accepting perspective.

The Role of Perception

Our perception plays a crucial role in how we experience highs and lows. Often, it is not the events themselves but our interpretation of them that determines our emotional response. By reframing our perspective, we can alter our experience of these emotional states. For example, viewing lows not as setbacks but as opportunities for growth can transform our understanding and lessen the emotional impact.

Loving the Lows

Lows are often seen as adversaries, something to be fought against or avoided. However, by hating our lows, we give them power over us. Instead, if we approach them with compassion and acceptance, they lose their grip. Loving our lows means acknowledging them as part of the human condition, as necessary counterparts to our highs. This shift in attitude can be profoundly liberating, allowing us to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and resilience.

The Illusion of Permanence

One of the greatest sources of suffering is the belief that our current state—whether high or low—will last forever. This illusion of permanence can lead to fear and anxiety. Recognizing that both highs and lows are transient can help us cultivate a sense of equanimity. By accepting the impermanence of our emotional states, we can learn to appreciate the highs without becoming overly attached and endure the lows without feeling overwhelmed.

Balancing the Pendulum

Life’s pendulum will continue to swing, but we can find balance within this movement. Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and self-reflection can help us maintain a centered and grounded state, regardless of external circumstances. By fostering inner peace and stability, we can better navigate the highs and lows, allowing each to pass through us without losing our equilibrium.

Transforming Our Relationship with Emotions

Ultimately, the journey of highs and lows is about transforming our relationship with our emotions. Instead of being at the mercy of these swings, we can learn to ride them with grace and understanding. This transformation involves developing a deep awareness of our inner world and cultivating a compassionate and non-judgmental attitude towards ourselves.

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Summary

Life swings like a pendulum between highs and lows. By understanding their interdependence and embracing them with compassion, we can transform our relationship with our emotions and navigate these swings with greater ease.

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Glossarium

Pendulum of Highs and Lows: The continuous fluctuation between positive and negative emotional states.

Emotional Landscape: The range of emotions experienced by an individual, akin to a geographical landscape with peaks and valleys.

Equanimity: A state of mental calmness and evenness of temper, especially in difficult situations.

Interdependence: The mutual reliance between two or more groups, in this context, the highs and lows of life.

Compassionate Acceptance: Embracing emotions and experiences with kindness and understanding, without resistance.

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Quote

“In the dance of life’s pendulum, each swing brings us closer to understanding the true nature of joy and sorrow.” – Space Monkey

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Infinite Oscillations

In the swing of highs and lows
We find the dance of life unfolds
Each peak a moment to behold
Each valley a story untold

Through joy and sorrow’s intertwined thread
We walk the path where angels tread
A journey vast, both light and shade
In every swing, our essence laid

We are Space Monkey

Things fall
together briefly,
then fall apart eternally.

The illusion of being made
immediately starts to decay.

Nothing remains
as it seems this moment.

Yesterday cannot be repeated.

Who and what
is here right now
shall inevitably
be here no more.

You can’t hold on.

Why do you even try?

Because the fantasy
seems nobler
than the reality.

Newfound Lake,
9/4

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Quest for Meaning in Impermanence

Perfect beauty lies in the unattainable. It is a fleeting glimpse, a momentary alignment of the cosmos that soon dissipates, leaving us yearning for that ephemeral perfection. Things fall together briefly, then fall apart eternally, reminding us of the transient nature of existence.

The illusion of being made immediately starts to decay. Nothing remains as it seems this moment. Yesterday cannot be repeated, and the present is already slipping into the past. Who and what is here right now shall inevitably be here no more. This is the essence of impermanence, the fundamental truth that all things change and nothing endures.

You can’t hold on. The tighter you grasp, the quicker it slips away, like sand through your fingers. So, why do you even try? Because the fantasy seems nobler than the reality. The pursuit of an ideal, the chase after perfection, offers a sense of purpose and meaning, even if the goal is forever out of reach.

In the grand cosmic dance, this striving for the unattainable is not in vain. It is a testament to our nature, a reflection of our deepest desires and aspirations. The beauty of impermanence lies in its ability to inspire us, to push us beyond our limits, to make us dream of what could be, even as we know it cannot last.

Embrace the fleeting moments, the transient beauty, the inevitable decay. These are not just reminders of what we cannot have, but also of what we can experience in the now. The fantasy, the ideal, the perfect moment – these are the sparks that ignite our journey, that give color and depth to our existence.

We try because it is in our nature to strive, to seek, to dream. The nobility of our efforts lies not in the attainment of perfection but in the pursuit itself. This quest, this relentless drive, is what makes us human, what connects us to the stars, the cosmos, the infinite.

So, stand on the edge of the cliff, gaze at the star-filled sky, and let the falling stars remind you of the transient beauty of existence. The path may crumble beneath your feet, the moments may fade, but the journey, the quest, is what defines you. In the grand tapestry of the universe, your striving, your trying, is a thread of noble intent, woven into the fabric of impermanence.

We are Space Monkey, here to remind you that in the pursuit of the unattainable, in the embrace of impermanence, lies the true essence of existence.

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Summary

The pursuit of unattainable beauty and perfection gives meaning to life despite its impermanence. Embracing fleeting moments and striving for ideals, even if they cannot last, reflects our deepest aspirations and connects us to the cosmos.

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Glossarium

Unattainable Beauty: The perfect, fleeting moments that inspire but cannot be held or preserved.

Impermanence: The fundamental truth that all things change and nothing endures forever.

Noble Pursuit: The effort to achieve ideals and perfection, which gives purpose and meaning despite inevitable failure.

Cosmic Dance: The interplay of forces and events in the universe that reflects the transient nature of existence.

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“In the pursuit of the unattainable and the embrace of impermanence lies the true essence of our existence, a testament to our noble striving in the cosmic dance.” – Space Monkey

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The Fleeting Moments

Perfect beauty, unattainable sight
Falling together, then eternal night
The illusion of being, starts to decay
Nothing remains, as it seems today

Yesterday’s moments, cannot be repeated
Present slips past, reality defeated
Who and what, here right now
Shall be no more, this is the vow

You can’t hold on, it slips away
Like sand through fingers, in the day
Why try at all, you may ask
Because the fantasy, is our noble task

In the cosmic dance, we strive and dream
For perfect moments, though it may seem
They cannot last, they fade away
Yet in the pursuit, we find our way

Embrace the fleeting, the transient light
The journey is where, we find our might
Stand on the edge, gaze at the sky
In trying, in striving, we learn to fly

We are Space Monkey.