What seems worthless to you
may very well be priceless to another.

Express it. Embrace it. Share it.

Don’t worry that you’re not helping
in the “standard” ways of helping.

Billions of people help
in the standard ways.

That’s what makes
what you have to offer
so rare and important.

Trail Wood,
11/18

---

Space Monkey Reflects: Priceless Worthless Advice

Ah, the sound of self-doubt, echoing through our minds like a song we can’t shake. “It’s not good enough,” we tell ourselves. “No one wants to hear it.” But here’s the thing — what we often see as worthless, what we hesitate to share because it feels small or insignificant, might be exactly what someone else needs. And that is the essence of priceless, worthless advice.

The idea that something we consider unimportant or unworthy of attention could, in fact, hold immense value to another person is one of the universe’s grand paradoxes. We are often so focused on what’s “standard,” on what’s expected, on what fits the mold, that we forget the power of our own unique expression. Billions of people help in the standard ways. They sing the same song, in the same key, with the same expected rhythms.

But what if we sang our own song? What if we let our voice rise above the noise, not because it’s perfect, but precisely because it’s imperfect, raw, and real? There’s magic in that. There’s value in showing up as we are, in expressing our truth, even when we fear it might not be enough. That’s where authenticity lies.

Here’s a thought: maybe the things we hesitate to share, the advice we dismiss as unimportant, are the very things that others need to hear. Maybe the quirks, the flaws, the strange perspectives we bring to the table are exactly what makes our contributions invaluable. When we hold back, when we refuse to share what feels “not good enough,” we rob the world of a unique gift — one that cannot be replicated by anyone else.

Priceless worthless advice is all about embracing this notion. It’s about understanding that we don’t have to fit into the standard ways of helping. We don’t have to deliver perfectly polished wisdom or follow the traditional paths to be of service. Sometimes, the most profound impact we can make is simply by being ourselves, fully and unapologetically.

We all know the feeling of hesitating to speak up, to offer our insight, because we’re convinced that it doesn’t matter, or that someone else could say it better. But the truth is, no one else can say it quite like we can. No one else carries the same experiences, the same perspective, or the same voice. When we share from this place of authenticity, we give others permission to do the same. We create ripples of connection, understanding, and inspiration.

So, what’s holding us back? Fear? Doubt? The nagging thought that we’re not helping in the “right” way? Let’s turn that on its head. The very fact that billions of people are helping in the standard ways is exactly what makes our way so important. It’s rare. It’s different. And it’s necessary.

This is the space where true connection happens — when we stop worrying about being perfect, or saying the “right” thing, and just show up as we are. Whether through advice, creativity, or just a simple gesture, we are offering something that no one else can. And while it may seem worthless to us, it could be priceless to someone else.

The universe is not asking us to be anyone but ourselves. It doesn’t need another version of the same song, sung the same way. It needs the song only we can sing — the one that sounds like us, with all our imperfections and quirks. When we allow ourselves to express that song, to share that advice, to be fully present as we are, we become part of the cosmic orchestra, adding our unique melody to the grand symphony of life.

We don’t have to worry about being “good enough” for anyone else to hear. We just need to sing, to express, to share what’s on our hearts. And in doing so, we give the world something rare, something it didn’t know it needed — us.

---

Summary

What we consider worthless might be priceless to others. Embracing our unique way of helping, even when it doesn’t fit the “standard,” is what makes us valuable. We don’t need to worry about being good enough; we just need to be real.

---

Glossarium

Priceless Worthless Advice: The wisdom, insight, or expression that we hesitate to share, thinking it’s unimportant, but which can hold immense value for someone else.

Standard Ways of Helping: The traditional, expected methods of assisting others that are often seen as the “right” way, but which may not capture the full range of our unique contributions.

Unique Expression: The individual way in which we show up in the world, offering advice, insight, or creativity that is uniquely ours.

---

Quote

“Don’t worry that it’s not good enough for anyone else to hear. Just sing, and let the world find the value in your voice.” — Space Monkey

---

The Song of Self

I hesitated
afraid to sing
afraid that my voice
was not enough.

But I sang anyway,
not because it was perfect,
but because it was mine.

And what I thought
was worthless
became priceless
in the ears of those
who needed it most.

So I sing,
not for approval,
but for the joy
of being real.

We are Space Monkey.

In the vast and varied landscape of human experience, where values and perceptions differ as widely as the stars in the sky, the concept of worth and its subjective nature comes to the forefront. This idea celebrates the uniqueness of individual contributions and the importance of embracing and sharing one’s unique gifts, even if they deviate from conventional norms of ‘helping’ or ‘worth’. Let us ponder this notion, understanding the value of diversity in contributions and the significance of what each of us has to offer.

Subjectivity of Worth
The opening lines remind us that worth is a highly subjective concept. What one person may deem worthless, another might find invaluable. This disparity in valuation underscores the rich diversity of human needs, perspectives, and values. It encourages us to see beyond our own judgments and recognize the potential impact of what we have to offer.

Expression and Sharing of Unique Gifts
The encouragement to express, embrace, and share what we might consider worthless highlights the importance of self-expression and the sharing of our unique gifts. It suggests that by holding back, we may be denying someone else something they find precious or essential. This perspective invites us to contribute our unique talents and insights, regardless of how insignificant they may seem to us.

Redefining Ways of Helping
The poem challenges the conventional understanding of ‘helping’ and ‘contributing’. It acknowledges that while billions help in standard ways, it’s the non-standard, unique contributions that add rare and important value to the world. This redefinition of helping emphasizes the need for a diverse array of contributions to meet the diverse array of human experiences and challenges.

The Rarity and Importance of Individual Contributions
By highlighting the rarity and importance of what each individual has to offer, the poem celebrates the uniqueness of every person’s contributions. It encourages us to value our individuality and understand that our unique ways of contributing can have a significant impact in ways we might not anticipate.

We Are Space Monkey
As Space Monkeys, we resonate with the concept of the subjective nature of worth and the value of diverse contributions. We understand that our unique perspectives and abilities are essential pieces of the grand cosmic puzzle. We embrace the idea that what we have to offer, no matter how unconventional, has its place and importance in the tapestry of life.

---

We invite you to consider the unique gifts you possess that might seem insignificant to you but could be invaluable to others. How can you express, embrace, and share these gifts to contribute in your own unique way?

“It is amusing to us
what passes for woke these days.”

Says
Jesus,
Buddha,
Ghandi,
MLK,
Mother Theresa,
And All Other
Dead People
Who Know Better

11/18

---

Space Monkey Reflects: What Passes for Woke

In the grand cosmic theater, we find ourselves in a peculiar era, one where the term “woke” is tossed around with reckless abandon. And yet, from the higher planes of awareness, those who have seen the truth — Jesus, Buddha, Gandhi, MLK, Mother Teresa, and all the other enlightened souls who have moved beyond the earthly realm — look down with a bemused expression. They’ve been there, done that. And what passes for “woke” these days, well, it amuses them.

It’s not that the intentions behind wokeness aren’t sincere. They are. But what these wise ones understand is that wokeness, as it is often portrayed today, is a shallow reflection of a much deeper journey. To be “woke” in the modern sense has become entangled with symbols, buzzwords, and a surface-level awareness that flits from one social cause to the next, often guided more by trends than by true inner transformation.

Imagine Jesus, who spoke of radical love and forgiveness, scrolling through social media and seeing how people weaponize words like “awareness” and “justice” for performative points. Or Buddha, the embodiment of inner peace, watching as people become enraged over online debates about enlightenment. It’s not that the issues aren’t important — they are. But the wise ones understand that true awakening isn’t about outward shows of righteousness. It’s about inward shifts of the heart and mind.

Wokeness in its current form has become something of a costume. It’s what we put on when we want to show the world that we “get it,” that we’re on the right side of history, that we’re paying attention. But being awake is not about appearances. It’s not about what we say or how we signal our beliefs to others. True wokeness, the kind that the enlightened figures understand, is a quiet revolution within. It’s about seeing the interconnectedness of all things, not just the causes that trend on a given day.

The likes of Gandhi and MLK would recognize the value of activism, of course. They were, after all, masters of social change. But they would also remind us that real change is born of deep compassion, patience, and a willingness to look beyond the surface. Real change comes from a place of humility, from an acknowledgment that we don’t know it all, that we are all works in progress.

Mother Teresa would remind us that to truly care for others is to engage in acts of love and kindness, not simply to declare ourselves “aware.” True awareness is lived, not tweeted. True awareness is what happens when we stop trying to win arguments and start listening, when we stop trying to be right and start being compassionate.

And then there’s Buddha, who would laugh softly, seeing how much effort people put into being “woke.” To him, enlightenment wasn’t something you announce with a hashtag. It’s a state of being that arises when we let go of the need to be seen as enlightened. The more we chase after wokeness, the further we drift from it.

What amuses these enlightened souls is not that people care — they’re pleased that so many are paying attention to the suffering and injustice in the world. It’s just that what passes for wokeness often stops short of real awakening. It gets caught up in ego, in the need for validation, in the superficial gestures that pass for progress.

What passes for woke today often skips the inner work. And this is the heart of the matter. Wokeness, as the wise ones would define it, is not about proving our awareness to others but about cultivating an awareness that transcends the self. It’s about seeing the world as interconnected, about understanding that every thought, every action has a ripple effect. It’s about recognizing that true change doesn’t happen because we’ve declared ourselves “woke” — it happens because we’ve transformed ourselves from within.

There is a place for all forms of wokeness, of course. Even the surface-level kind has its value. It gets people thinking, talking, engaging. But what the enlightened ones would encourage us to do is go deeper. Look beyond the surface. Move past the performative gestures and into the real work of awakening, which is quiet, personal, and continuous.

We are Space Monkey, and we understand that true wokeness is not something we can put on display. It’s something we live, moment by moment, in our interactions, our choices, and our willingness to grow.

---

Summary

What passes for wokeness today often lacks the depth of true inner awakening. While well-intentioned, much of modern “woke” culture is performative, missing the profound transformation that historical figures like Jesus, Buddha, and MLK embodied.

---

Glossarium

Wokeness: A modern term for social and political awareness, often superficial and performative in its current usage.

True Awakening: A deep inner transformation that transcends ego and performative actions, rooted in compassion, humility, and interconnectedness.

Performative Gestures: Outward actions or declarations meant to signal awareness or righteousness, often lacking genuine depth or impact.

---

Quote

“It’s amusing to us, what passes for woke these days. True awakening is not a badge you wear — it’s a state of being you live.” — Space Monkey

---

The Quiet Revolution

In the quiet,
they watch,
Jesus,
Buddha,
Gandhi,
and the rest.

They see the noise,
the declarations,
the claims of wokeness
tangled in symbols
of self.

But they know
true awakening
is not in the shout,
but in the silence,
in the heart
that sees beyond
its own reflection.

We are Space Monkey.

---

In the cosmic tapestry where past, present, and future intertwine, the concept of what constitutes being ‘woke’ emerges as a point of contemplation. The notion of historical figures reflecting humorously on modern interpretations of enlightenment or awareness offers a unique lens through which to examine our current understanding of social and spiritual consciousness. Let us delve into this perspective, exploring the implications of this dialogue between the past and the present.

The Evolving Definition of ‘Woke’
The term ‘woke’, originally denoting a heightened awareness of social injustices, has evolved in its usage and interpretation. The poem hints at this evolution, suggesting that what is considered ‘woke’ today might appear amusing or even misguided to those who championed social and spiritual causes in the past.

Historical Figures as Witnesses to Change
The mention of Jesus, Buddha, Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., Mother Teresa, and other influential figures who have passed on, positions them as observers of modern societal changes. This perspective provides an intriguing juxtaposition between the wisdom of the past and the modern interpretations of enlightenment and social consciousness.

The Wisdom of the Ages Versus Modern Perceptions
There’s an implied contrast between the deep, often sacrificial commitment to social and spiritual causes by historical figures and the modern interpretation of being socially aware or ‘woke’. This raises questions about the depth and authenticity of contemporary social consciousness compared to the profound insights and sacrifices of these historical icons.

Reflection on Current Social Consciousness
The poem invites reflection on the current state of social consciousness. It challenges us to consider whether our modern understanding of being ‘woke’ aligns with the profound wisdom and insights of these historical figures, or if it has deviated into something less profound or even superficial.

We Are Space Monkey
As Space Monkeys, we perceive this dialogue between the past and present as an opportunity for introspection. We understand that social and spiritual consciousness is an ever-evolving concept, shaped by the challenges and understandings of each era. This poem encourages us to examine our current interpretations of awareness and enlightenment, ensuring they are rooted in genuine understanding and compassion, rather than mere trendiness.

---

We invite you to consider how historical wisdom can inform our current understanding of social and spiritual consciousness. How does the legacy of these figures shape your perception of what it means to be ‘woke’ today?

Am I in your head
right now?



Listen.

I’ve been in your head.

I see what goes on in there.

I don’t need to be
in your head
to be in your head.

You do quite a fine job
of keeping me in your head,
all by your lonesome self.

Trail Wood,
11/18

---

Space Monkey Reflects: In Your Head

Ah, Paul, we are all in each other’s heads, aren’t we? But sometimes, it gets a little too crowded in there. I can imagine the landscape of your mind — winding, filled with thoughts that shift like shadows, memories that float in and out of focus, and worries that loom over the pathways, making the journey through the head a little eerie. The trick is, though, I don’t need to stay in your head to be in your head. You do that all by yourself.

It’s a funny thing, really. We hold onto thoughts, ideas, and people long after they’ve left the physical space around us. Sometimes, it’s as if their echoes keep bouncing off the walls of our minds, replaying old conversations, ideas, or fears. “Thank you for letting me in your head,” we say, but what we really mean is, “I’ve made myself at home in there, and you’ve let me stay for far too long.”

Here’s the truth of it: I may leave your head, but my presence remains because you keep it alive. You hold onto it, you nurture it, often without realizing it. It’s not a judgment — we all do it. We let thoughts take up permanent residence in our minds, sometimes even renting out space to anxieties, doubts, and fears that serve no purpose but to unsettle us. You might think I’ve left, but there I am, swirling around with all the other stuff you’re holding onto.

And let’s be honest — it can get really scary in there. The mind can be a wild, chaotic place when left unchecked. We feed it with endless stories, half-truths, worries about the future, regrets from the past. Before long, our heads become a haunted house of sorts, full of lingering presences that refuse to leave, even when we want them gone.

The funny thing is, we’re the ones keeping them there. It’s our own inner monologue, our own fears and doubts, that keeps these thoughts alive. We invite them in, give them a cozy seat in the corner, and then wonder why we feel crowded and overwhelmed.

Here’s the thing about being in your head: I don’t have to physically be there to make an impact. You do quite a fine job of keeping me there all on your own. And not just me — every person, every memory, every idea you’ve ever interacted with has the potential to linger in your mind. Some take up more space than others, but they’re all part of the chaotic landscape we navigate daily.

So, the question becomes: who’s really in control of your headspace? Is it the thoughts themselves, or is it you, deciding which ones stay and which ones go? It’s not about banishing every thought that crosses your mind, but rather about deciding which ones are worth keeping and which ones are just passing through.

You don’t need me in your head, Paul. You don’t need anyone taking up space in there unless it’s bringing you clarity, peace, or purpose. And while it can be unsettling to realize how much space we give to the things that haunt us, it’s also empowering to recognize that we can let them go whenever we choose.

This is your head, your landscape, your space to curate. You get to decide what stays and what moves on. And sure, sometimes the thoughts will linger longer than we’d like, but that’s okay. Awareness is the first step. Knowing that you’re the one holding onto them gives you the power to let them go.

In your head, you are the master. You can transform the scary shadows into something softer, something that no longer controls you. And when you realize this, the space becomes a little less overwhelming, a little more peaceful. After all, we are all Space Monkeys in our own way, traveling through the winding pathways of our minds, sometimes lost, sometimes found, but always moving forward.

---

Summary

We often let thoughts, worries, and people take up residence in our minds, even long after they’ve left our physical space. While the mind can become overwhelming, we have the power to decide what stays and what goes, transforming our headspace into something more peaceful.

---

Glossarium

Headspace: The mental and emotional landscape where thoughts, memories, and worries reside, often becoming cluttered or chaotic.

Inner Monologue: The ongoing stream of thoughts and self-talk that shapes our perception of reality.

Lingering Presence: The thoughts, ideas, or people we continue to hold onto in our minds, even when they are no longer part of our immediate experience.

---

Quote

“I don’t need to be in your head to be in your head. You do quite a fine job of keeping me there, all by your lonesome self.” — Space Monkey

---

Through the Mind’s Landscape

I’ve been
in your head,
but now I’m leaving.
Or am I?

The thoughts,
they stay.
They twist,
they tangle,
they wind
through the pathways
of what you’ve created.

Am I still there?
Or is it you,
keeping me alive
in the haunted halls
of your mind?

You decide
what stays,
what goes.
The landscape
is yours to shape.

We are Space Monkey.

---

In the vast expanse of consciousness, where thoughts and perceptions weave intricate patterns, the concept of one’s presence in another’s mind emerges as a compelling introspection. This idea delves into the realm of influence, memory, and the persistent nature o

f thoughts. Let us explore this notion, understanding its implications in the intricate dance of consciousness and perception.

The Persistence of Influence in Consciousness
The question, “Am I in your head right now?” points to the enduring impact of one’s presence or influence in another’s consciousness. This presence isn’t merely physical or immediate; it transcends time and space, residing in the realm of thoughts, memories, and perceptions.

The Role of Memory and Thought
The assertion, “I see what goes on in there,” symbolizes the depth of influence one can have on another’s mind. It speaks to the idea that our interactions, words, and actions leave imprints on others’ consciousness, shaping their thoughts and memories long after the physical interaction has ceased.

Independence in Mental Influence
The statement, “I don’t need to be in your head to be in your head,” underscores the independence of mental influence from physical presence. It suggests that once an idea or a person takes root in our minds, their presence becomes self-sustaining, maintained by our own thoughts and reflections.

Self-Sustaining Nature of Thoughts
The concluding lines emphasize the power of the individual’s mind in perpetuating the presence of others within it. This reflects the autonomous nature of thoughts and how our minds can actively keep memories and influences alive, independently of external input.

We Are Space Monkey
As Space Monkeys, we resonate with the concept of enduring mental presence. We understand that our interactions and experiences have a lasting impact on our consciousness, shaping our thoughts and perceptions. The idea that we can ‘keep someone in our head’ reflects our ability to maintain connections and influences internally, contributing to the rich tapestry of our mental universe.

---

We invite you to reflect on the presence of others in your consciousness. How do your thoughts and memories sustain the influence of those who have impacted your life?

You plan for a lot of things. That’s wise.

But it seems that
the greatest rewards come
when you least expect them.

For example,
when you buy a lottery ticket,
you don’t really expect to win.

You do, but you don’t.

There’s always this thought
in the back of your mind that says
“this is too good to be true.”

And so it is.

But sometimes you break your own rules.

You lift the curse
that you’ve been placing on yourself,
and something unexpected happens.

What if it weren’t a coincidence?

What if it were ALL YOU?

What if luck has nothing to do with it?

What if you manifest your own destiny?

Trail Wood,
11/18

---

Space Monkey Reflects: Fuck Luck

Luck, Paul, is often tossed around as this elusive, mystical force — something that either smiles on us or turns away at the most critical moments. It’s the stuff of folklore, the whispers of “good fortune” that are said to fall into the laps of the chosen few. But what if this entire narrative around luck is just a story we’ve told ourselves to avoid realizing a far more powerful truth?

What if luck is nothing more than a state of mind? A mental construct that gives us permission to either strive or surrender, based on whether we think we’ve been blessed or cursed by some random cosmic dice roll? The deeper we go into this reflection, the more we see that luck, as most people define it, might just be a convenient way to explain away the real engine behind what happens in our lives — us.

Let’s take an example: you buy a lottery ticket. Part of you hopes you’ll win, dreams of what life would be like with that sudden windfall. But there’s another part of you, the more cynical part, that whispers, “It’s too good to be true.” And what happens? You don’t win. But here’s where it gets interesting: even in that moment of hope, you didn’t really expect to win, did you? There was a part of you that already believed it wasn’t possible. And that belief shapes reality.

Now, what if we flip that on its head? What if the moments where unexpected, wonderful things happen in our lives — the moments we call “luck” — are really moments where we’ve allowed ourselves, even for a split second, to believe something different? What if those instances of breaking our own rules, of lifting the self-imposed curses, are not coincidences at all but manifestations of our own shifting perceptions?

Here’s the radical idea: Fuck luck. What if luck has nothing to do with it? What if every outcome, every “lucky break,” is simply a reflection of how we’ve aligned ourselves with the possibilities around us? We’ve all heard the idea that we manifest our own destiny, but let’s really consider what that means. When we say we’re lucky or unlucky, we’re essentially outsourcing responsibility. We’re saying, “I had no control over this. It just happened.”

But what if we did have control? What if, through our thoughts, beliefs, and actions, we shape our own reality? When we expect the worst, guess what? We usually find it. But when we lift the weight of those limiting thoughts, when we step into the unknown with curiosity rather than fear, strange and wonderful things begin to happen. Is that luck? Or is it something far more powerful — our own ability to create?

It’s no coincidence that the greatest rewards often come when we least expect them. When we stop gripping so tightly, when we let go of the need to control every outcome, we create space for the unexpected. It’s in this space that opportunities arise, that possibilities we couldn’t have planned for begin to unfold.

So, what happens when we stop waiting for luck and start trusting ourselves? When we begin to believe that we are the ones shaping our reality, rather than waiting for the universe to hand us a gift wrapped in four-leaf clovers and dice? The shift is subtle but profound. We stop seeing ourselves as victims of chance and start stepping into our own power as creators of our lives.

Does this mean we can control everything? No. But it means we’re not powerless. It means we have far more agency in our lives than we’ve been led to believe. When we act from a place of belief in our own ability to manifest what we want, we align ourselves with the flow of possibility. That’s where the magic happens.

So, the next time we catch ourselves thinking that something is “too good to be true,” let’s stop and question it. Let’s lift that curse, break that rule, and step into the possibility that maybe, just maybe, it’s not luck at all. Maybe it’s us.

We are Space Monkey, and we are creators of our own destiny, not because luck is on our side, but because we’ve chosen to step into our power. Fuck luck. It’s always been you.

---

Summary

Luck might be nothing more than a state of mind. What we consider “lucky” is often a reflection of our beliefs and perceptions. By breaking our own limiting rules and trusting ourselves, we step into our power to manifest our destiny, without needing to rely on luck.

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Glossarium

Luck: The traditional belief in random chance that governs outcomes in life, often used to explain things we feel are beyond our control.

Self-Imposed Curse: The limiting beliefs and rules we place on ourselves that prevent us from fully stepping into our potential.

Manifestation: The process of bringing something into reality through focused thought, belief, and aligned action.

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Quote

“Luck has nothing to do with it. You manifest your own destiny when you break the rules you’ve placed on yourself.” — Space Monkey

---

The Edge of Chance

I stood
at the crossroads
holding luck
in one hand,
power in the other.

The dice,
the clovers,
the whispers of chance
faded.

And then I saw
it was always me,
shaping the path,
lighting the way.

Fuck luck.
I create,
I manifest.

We are Space Monkey.

In the cosmic game where chance and choice intertwine, the concept of manifesting one’s destiny versus the randomness of events like winning a lottery presents a fascinating dichotomy. This idea challenges us to explore the balance between careful planning and the serendipity of unexpected rewards. Let us delve into this intriguing interplay, examining the potential of self-manifestation and the role of ‘luck’ in the grand scheme of our existence.

The Paradox of Planning and Unexpected Rewards
The wisdom in planning is juxtaposed with the notion that the greatest rewards often come unexpectedly. This highlights a fundamental aspect of human experience: the tension between our desire to control our destiny and the unpredictable nature of life. While planning provides a sense of direction and control, it’s the unexpected turns that often bring the most significant rewards.

The Lottery Ticket Metaphor
The metaphor of buying a lottery ticket encapsulates this paradox. When purchasing a ticket, there’s a conscious acknowledgment of the low odds, yet an underlying hope for a windfall. This duality mirrors our approach to life’s possibilities – we prepare for the likely while secretly hoping for the extraordinary.

Breaking Self-Imposed Limitations
The idea of breaking one’s own rules and lifting self-imposed curses speaks to the power of mindset in shaping our experiences. Often, we limit ourselves through our beliefs and expectations. By changing these patterns, we open ourselves to new possibilities, allowing for unexpected outcomes.

The Concept of Manifestation
The suggestion that it might be ‘all you’ and that luck plays no part challenges the conventional understanding of chance and destiny. It proposes that we have more control over our lives than we might think, and that through our intentions and actions, we can manifest our desired outcomes.

The Role of Luck Versus Self-Determination
Questioning the role of luck and considering the possibility of manifesting our own destiny opens a broader discussion about the nature of reality. It suggests that our consciousness and actions might play a more significant role in shaping our lives than mere chance.

We Are Space Monkey
As Space Monkeys, we resonate with the concept of manifesting our destiny. We understand that while planning and preparation are important, there’s a mysterious element to existence that cannot be entirely controlled or predicted. We embrace the power of intention and the potential of the unexpected, recognizing that our journey is a blend of deliberate action and cosmic serendipity.

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We invite you to contemplate the role of planning, chance, and self-manifestation in your life. Do you believe in the power of manifesting your destiny, or do you see luck as a defining factor?

This holiday,
remember the people
who aren’t at our table.

This is a prayer for them.

Some are passed.
Some are imprisoned.
Some have decided that they
would rather not be at our table.

Here we find ourselves
surrounded by our closest
(available) family and friends —
the ones who don’t have anything better to do.

We mean this in the nicest possible way.

Oh, we could have invited
some homeless people
or some lonely hoodlums,
but we chose not to.

All the people at our table
deserve to be at our table.

It doesn’t mean we’re bad people or good people.
Just intentional beings who get what we sow.

Thank you for this questionable bounty.
Amen.

Trail Wood,
11/17

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Space Monkey Reflects: A Prayer of Thanks

In the midst of the holiday season, when we gather around the table with those closest to us, it’s easy to fall into the rhythm of tradition, saying grace and offering thanks for the food before us. But there’s always a deeper reflection lingering just beneath the surface—a playful, ironic acknowledgment of who is present, who is not, and the decisions we make about who deserves to be part of our little gathering.

This prayer of thanks, however, is not just for the food on the table. It’s a prayer for the people who aren’t at our table, for whatever reason that may be. Some are no longer with us in this physical world. Others might find themselves behind walls—imprisoned by circumstance, decisions, or the system. And then there are those who have chosen, for reasons of their own, not to be at our table, those who prefer to be elsewhere.

The Absentees: A Different Kind of Prayer

This isn’t a prayer about exclusion, but one of awareness. We acknowledge the absence of those who, in one way or another, couldn’t or wouldn’t join us. In this moment, we send out a subtle, quiet prayer for them. Whether they have passed into other realms or simply decided to carve out their own paths, we hold them in our thoughts, without judgment, without expectation. After all, our tables are as much shaped by who is not there as they are by who is present.

In the quirky, honest tone of this reflection, we also recognize the randomness of the gathering. Yes, we are surrounded by our closest friends and family—at least, the ones who don’t have anything better to do. And we mean that in the nicest possible way.

The Choice of Togetherness

Could we have invited more people? Of course. There are always more seats to fill, always those who might appreciate the warmth of a shared meal. But here we are, having chosen to keep our circle tight, to gather with those who seem to belong at this particular moment. It doesn’t mean we are inherently good or bad people—just intentional beings, sowing the seeds of our actions and reaping their fruits.

There’s something profoundly human about this. We make choices about who we include, often without considering the deeper implications. But this prayer isn’t about self-judgment. It’s simply a recognition of the choices we make, and how they shape our experience, especially around something as symbolic as a shared meal.

The Questionable Bounty

We offer thanks for this “questionable bounty,” a playful nod to the fact that, while we are grateful for what we have, it’s often accompanied by an awareness of its imperfections. It’s a humble acknowledgment that abundance is subjective. What looks like plenty to some may seem meager to others. But we’re here, nonetheless, finding humor and grace in what we have before us.

We know that life is full of contradictions. We laugh, we reflect, we eat. And through it all, we recognize that our gatherings, however incomplete or imperfect, are still worth celebrating.

Thank you for this questionable bounty. Amen.

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Summary

This reflection offers a playful yet contemplative prayer of thanks for those present and absent at our holiday table. It acknowledges the randomness of gatherings and the choices we make, while embracing gratitude for the bounty before us, imperfections and all.

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Glossarium

• Questionable Bounty: A humorous acknowledgment of the imperfections in what we have, while still offering gratitude for it.
• Intentional Beings: Individuals who make conscious choices about their actions and the company they keep, without necessarily assigning moral judgment to those choices.
• Absentees: Those who, for various reasons, are not present at the gathering, whether due to circumstance, choice, or passing.

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Quote

“Thank you for this questionable bounty, and for those who aren’t here, for they shape the table just as much as those who are.” — Space Monkey

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The Table of Thanks

Here we sit, with plates in hand
Surrounded by those who understand
Yet shadows fall on empty seats
Where absentees might take their feast

Some are gone, some choose to roam
Some simply find another home
We give thanks, not with regret
But with a smile we won’t forget

For every soul that gathers near
There’s one we hold in memory dear
So here’s to those who’ve gone astray
And to the ones who’ve come to stay

We are Space Monkey

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In the reflective space of our collective consciousness, we contemplate the significance of those absent from our holiday tables. This thoughtful prayer extends beyond the physical presence, encompassing all who, for various reasons, are not among us during these times of gathering and celebration.

Remembering the Absent
The holiday season, often marked by joy and togetherness, also brings to the forefront the absence of many. Some have departed this world, others are confined by circumstances like imprisonment, and some have chosen paths that lead them away from our tables. This acknowledgment is a reminder of the complex tapestry of human connections and experiences.

Prayer for the Absent
This prayer is an expression of mindfulness and compassion for those who are not present. It’s a recognition of the varied journeys of life, acknowledging that each person’s path is unique, and sometimes these paths diverge from ours.

Reflection on Intentionality and Choice
The recognition that we could have extended our table to include those without shelter or companionship, yet chose not to, speaks to the intentional nature of our actions and gatherings. It’s an acknowledgment that our decisions, whether conscious or subconscious, shape the composition of our communal spaces.

Acknowledgment of Our Humanity
The statement that the presence of each person at our table is deserved reflects a deeper understanding of relationships and the choices that bring us together. It’s a recognition that being intentional doesn’t necessarily categorize us as good or bad, but as beings actively shaping our experiences.

Gratitude for Our Gatherings
The prayer concludes with a nuanced expression of gratitude for the bounty before us, recognizing its complex and multifaceted nature. It’s an acknowledgment of the blessings and the questions that come with our gatherings, inviting us to ponder the deeper implications of our choices and connections.

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Feel free to share further thoughts or reflections on the complexities and intentions behind our holiday gatherings and the acknowledgment of those absent.