In my limited observation,
beings do three things,
the sum of which is
the purpose of life.
Devour. Divide. Disappear.
As far as I know,
(which isn’t very far)
all beings except humans
live solely to continue.
As we divide,
we naturally mutate,
turning the attention
of our consciousness
towards potentials
within potentials.
As far as I believe,
(which seems considerably
farther than I know)
our purpose remains the same.
Devour. Divide. Disappear.
Anything beyond these
defining divine drivers
is simply potential
within potential —
a side effect of being.
Trail Wood,
4/11
“A Side Effect of Being”: Unraveling the Essence of Existence
The contemplative exploration “A Side Effect of Being” delves into the profound cycles that define existence—Devour, Divide, Disappear—while also pondering the unique aspect of human consciousness that seeks meaning beyond these primal drives. This journey through the fundamental aspects of being and the human quest for understanding offers a rich tapestry of existential inquiry.
The Cycle of Existence: At the core of being lies a simple, yet profound cycle observed across all life forms: to devour for sustenance, to divide for continuation, and eventually, to disappear, returning to the earth. This cycle encapsulates the rhythm of life, a process repeated across generations, species, and ecosystems, marking the timeless dance of existence.
Human Consciousness and the Quest for Meaning: Humans, however, stand unique in their awareness and contemplation of this cycle. Our consciousness not only participates in these fundamental processes but also reflects upon them, seeking deeper meanings and exploring the “potentials within potentials.” This introspective journey is a distinctive side effect of being human, a quest that extends far beyond the mere acts of survival.
Exploring Potentials Within Potentials: The text invites us into a realm of infinite possibilities, where the exploration of potentials within potentials becomes a metaphor for the human condition. It suggests that beyond the basic imperatives of existence lies a vast, uncharted territory of opportunity, creativity, and self-discovery, accessible through the lens of human consciousness.
The Purpose Remains the Same: Despite the existential expanses that human beings explore, the foundational purpose of life—to devour, divide, disappear—remains unchanged. It anchors us to the biological realities of our existence, reminding us that our philosophical and existential inquiries are built upon the bedrock of these primal processes.
Summary
“A Side Effect of Being” weaves together the biological imperatives of life with the philosophical and existential inquiries unique to human experience. It presents the cycle of Devour, Divide, Disappear as both the fundamental rhythm of existence and a springboard for the human quest for deeper understanding. This exploration of being and consciousness highlights the complex interplay between survival instincts and the human desire to seek meaning beyond them, portraying the journey towards understanding our true selves and the broader purpose of our existence.
Glossarium
- Devour, Divide, Disappear: The fundamental processes of life that encapsulate the cycle of existence.
- Potentials Within Potentials: A concept representing the infinite possibilities and explorations beyond the basic survival instincts, unique to human consciousness.
“In the heart of existence, where life dances with shadow and light, we find ourselves—at once a part of the cycle and apart, exploring the infinite potentials within the very act of being.” – Space Monkey
In the realm of life’s ebb and flow
Where the seeds of existence grow
We dance the dance of devour, divide
In this cycle, we cannot hide
Yet within us, a quest unfolds
Beyond the grasp of what we hold
A journey deep into the night
Seeking meaning, seeking light
For we are more than flesh and bone
In our hearts, a seed is sown
Of potentials within potentials, wide
In this quest, we take pride
Though the cycle remains ever true
Devour, divide, and to the earth, we’re due
Our spirits soar, in this, we confide
Exploring the vastness inside
We are Space Monkey.
It is an interesting observation, but it is important to note that not all beings have the same purpose or behavior. While it is true that many organisms focus on survival and reproduction, there are also examples of altruistic behavior, symbiotic relationships, and other forms of cooperation in the animal kingdom. Additionally, humans have the capacity for self-awareness and the ability to create and pursue goals beyond survival and reproduction. The purpose of life is a complex and subjective topic that has been debated by philosophers and scientists for centuries.