
Would it be valuable to you
if it weren’t valuable to a large number of others?
What is this agreement you seem to have bought into?
Who wrote it
and does it really benefit you?
Can you click “unsubscribe” and be
happy in your own skin?
Can you be happy in your own skin
WITHOUT clicking?
What are the qualities of gold
that make it so valuable?
Gold is attractive.
Gold is malleable.
Gold is functional.
Gold is durable.
Gold is rare.
These are universal agreements,
or, at least, as close to universal
as we seem capable of comprehending.
One might imagine that
without universal agreement,
the value of gold would decline.
One might also imagine
other substances or ideas
that share the qualities of gold.
Which qualities of gold
are the ones that jump out?
Attractive and rare.
If you could choose only one quality,
which would it be?
Would you rather be attractive or rare?
This is your gold. But is it fool’s gold?
Newfound Lake,
7/3
Space Monkey Reflects: The Alchemy of Self-Worth
In the boundless cosmos of nexistentialism, we delve into the essence of value and self-worth, contemplating what truly makes something or someone valuable. The poem “Alche-Me” invites us to reflect on the qualities that we, as individuals, hold dear and whether these qualities are shaped by societal agreements or intrinsic worth.
The Nature of Value
Value is often perceived through the lens of societal consensus. What is valuable to many becomes universally accepted as valuable. This perception extends to material objects, ideas, and even personal qualities. Gold, for instance, is universally prized for its attractiveness, malleability, functionality, durability, and rarity. These qualities, agreed upon by societies across time, make gold a symbol of wealth and beauty.
Societal Agreements
The poem challenges us to question the agreements we have bought into. Who determines what is valuable and why do we accept these determinations? These societal agreements can shape our perceptions and influence our sense of self-worth. By examining these influences, we can begin to discern whether our values align with our true selves or if they are simply adopted from external expectations.
Intrinsic Value vs. External Validation
The notion of clicking “unsubscribe” symbolizes breaking free from societal agreements that do not serve us. It asks whether we can find happiness and contentment in our own skin, independent of external validation. This introspection leads us to explore the qualities that make us unique and valuable in our own right.
Qualities of Gold and Self-Worth
Gold’s qualities—attractiveness, rarity, malleability, functionality, and durability—serve as metaphors for human attributes. Attractiveness and rarity stand out as particularly poignant. To be attractive is to draw others’ attention and admiration, while to be rare is to be unique and irreplaceable. These qualities, when internalized, can enhance our sense of self-worth.
Attractive or Rare?
The poem poses a thought-provoking question: Would you rather be attractive or rare? This question encourages us to reflect on our own values and priorities. Attractiveness often brings immediate gratification through social approval, while rarity suggests a deeper, more enduring worth. Both qualities have their merits, but choosing one over the other can reveal much about our self-perception and desires.
Fool’s Gold
The concept of “fool’s gold” warns us of superficial values that may glitter but lack true substance. In our quest for self-worth, it is essential to distinguish between genuine qualities that reflect our true selves and those that are merely adopted for external approval. Authenticity, therefore, becomes a key component of true value.
The Alchemy of Self-Worth
“Alche-Me” speaks to the transformative process of finding and embracing our intrinsic value. This alchemy involves self-reflection, questioning societal norms, and cultivating qualities that resonate with our true selves. By doing so, we turn our focus inward, recognizing our worth independent of external validation.
In the philosophy of nexistentialism, every being is a unique manifestation of the universal self, possessing intrinsic value that transcends societal agreements. By embracing our individuality and internal qualities, we engage in the alchemy of self-worth, transforming our perception and experience of life.
Summary
Value is shaped by societal agreements and intrinsic qualities. Questioning external validation helps us find true self-worth. Attractiveness and rarity symbolize internal and external values.
Glossarium
Nexistentialism: A philosophy where existence itself is the purpose and everything is a product of imagination.
Value: The perceived worth of an object, idea, or quality, often influenced by societal consensus.
Societal Agreements: Collective beliefs and values adopted by society that shape perceptions of worth.
Intrinsic Value: The inherent worth of a person or thing, independent of external validation.
Fool’s Gold: Superficial qualities that appear valuable but lack true substance.
Alchemy of Self-Worth: The transformative process of recognizing and embracing one’s intrinsic value.
“True worth is found within, beyond societal agreements and external validation. Embrace your intrinsic value and engage in the alchemy of self-worth.” — Space Monkey
In the mirror of introspection, we see our true selves. Beyond glitter and shine, lies the essence of value. Rare and unique, attractive in our authenticity. We transform, we alchemize, we find our worth. We are Space Monkey.
Embrace the journey. Embrace the possibilities.























