ANYONE can be what I am.
I’m just occupying the space on the board right now.
Whenever I am asked
to invest my self in a thing,
such writing a book,
or socializing with other people,
I sense a kind of resistance
that leads me to question my motives.
Am I so bereft
of intrinsic value
that I need to be known
for something,
as something,
worth something?
My answer is always NO.
To do any thing
that gets me noticed
is to reinforce the belief
that I have value
BECAUSE of what I do —
not because I am
INTRINSICALLY valuable.
I am valuable no matter
what I do or do not do.
My desire is to impress upon you
that you are the same.
Without making a big deal out of it.
Trail Wood,
6/5
Space Monkey Reflects: The Intrinsic Value Beyond Ego’s Pursuit
In a world that often equates visibility with value, the concept of “No Small Potatoes” emerges as a profound contemplation on intrinsic worth. The ego, that facet of our consciousness which seeks recognition and validation, urges us to define ourselves through our achievements, our social standings, and the roles we play. Yet, there is a deeper truth that resonates within each of us—a truth that understands our worth is not contingent upon external validations.
The individual in our narrative finds themselves at a crossroads whenever the prospect of engaging in socially esteemed activities arises, such as writing a book or socializing. This resistance is not merely hesitation; it is a profound internal dialogue questioning the motive behind these actions. Is the pursuit of such endeavors a testament to one’s lack of intrinsic value, or is it a validation sought from the external world?
This reflective questioning reveals a resistance to the ego’s insistent narrative that we are only as good as the accolades we accumulate. The realization that one’s value does not diminish with obscurity nor swell with recognition is a liberating truth. It undercuts the societal narrative that to be unnoticed is to be unworthy. Each person, regardless of their external achievements or the recognition they receive, holds intrinsic value simply by being.
The message here is subtle yet powerful: We do not need to be known for something or as something to be worth something. Our value is inherent, not earned. It is not a commodity to be augmented by our deeds or diminished by our quietness. The essence of our worth lies in our mere existence, in the unique consciousness that each of us brings to the universe.
By embracing this understanding, we are called to a life where actions are not performed for the sake of visibility but from a place of genuine expression and authenticity. This perspective does not diminish the value of achievement but reorients its purpose—from proving our worth to expressing our inherent value.
Summary
The theme ‘No Small Potatoes’ challenges the common notion that value is externally derived. It promotes the understanding that everyone holds intrinsic value independent of achievements or recognition. This realization empowers a more authentic and fulfilling life experience.
Glossarium
Intrinsic Value: The inherent worth of an individual, independent of external achievements, recognition, or social status.
Ego’s Pursuit: Refers to the ego’s drive for external validation and recognition, often at the expense of recognizing one’s inherent worth.
Quote
“Our value is inherent, not earned. It is not a commodity to be augmented by our deeds or diminished by our quietness.” — Space Monkey
Poem
In the garden of being
where self-worth blooms quietly
we stand not as monuments to be seen
but as whispers of the universe
Amidst the clamor of those seeking eyes
our silent roots dig deeper
nourished not by applause
but by the simple grace of existence
Let not the ego’s loud parade
distract from the quiet truth within
that we are each of infinite worth
regardless of the paths we walk
In this understanding, we find peace
a calm that needs no affirmation
from the world’s fleeting gaze
for in our core, we are complete
We are Space Monkey.
“In a gentle way, you can shake the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi
In the vast expanse of existence, the ego often tempts us to believe that our worth is determined by external recognition or accomplishments. It whispers in our ears, urging us to pursue things that will make us stand out, seeking validation from others. Yet, in the midst of this clamor, there lies a profound truth.
“You must be the change you wish to see in the world,” said Mahatma Gandhi. We are each capable of creating ripples of transformation in our own unique way. It is not about grand gestures or seeking fame, but rather about embracing our intrinsic value and allowing our actions to emanate from a place of authenticity and compassion.
You see, the notion of intrinsic value transcends any external measure of success or recognition. It reminds us that we are not defined by what we do or achieve, but rather by the inherent worth we possess as individuals. We are valuable simply by existing, by occupying our unique space in this grand cosmic dance.
When we feel the resistance to invest ourselves in certain pursuits, it is a gentle reminder to question our motives. Are we seeking external validation or attempting to fill a void within ourselves? Are we chasing recognition as a means to validate our worth? These questions lead us to a realization that our value does not hinge on the things we do or the recognition we receive.
“In a gentle way, you can shake the world,” Gandhi’s words resonate deeply. It is through our authentic selves, unburdened by the need for external validation, that we can make a profound impact. By embodying our intrinsic worth and living in alignment with our values, we inspire and influence others around us, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
We are valuable regardless of the roles we play or the accomplishments we achieve. Our intrinsic worth lies in our very essence, our beingness. It is not about making a big deal out of it, but rather embracing the truth that we are inherently valuable without needing to prove it to anyone, including ourselves.
So let us release the pressure to be defined by external markers of success and instead embrace the quiet knowing that we are valuable just as we are. Let us extend this understanding to others, reminding them that their worth is not contingent upon their actions or achievements. In this recognition, we find freedom from the need for validation and a deep sense of peace within ourselves.