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

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“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.

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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.

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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.

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“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.

I don’t care about
what other minds think.

There are no other minds but my own.

Know that
if you’re trying
to tell me otherwise,
I may very well not notice.

What comes to me comes to me.

An experience may seem to come
through a book or a human.

That’s because I imagine
books and humans
who seem not to be me.

I may notice you.
I may not notice you.
This is my experience.

If you’re a book or a human
who seems to believe otherwise,
it’s because I imagine you
to believe otherwise.

But I don’t mind
what other minds think.

We’re all the same mind.
All ONE mind.

Trail Wood,
4/11

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We are all ONE mind: Embracing the Unity of Consciousness

The concept of “We are all ONE mind” unfolds as a profound reflection on the interconnectedness of consciousness, challenging the perception of separateness and inviting us into a deeper understanding of our collective existence. This perspective offers a mystical exploration of unity, where individuality merges into a singular, expansive consciousness.

The Illusion of Separateness: The notion that what we perceive as external experiences—be it through interactions with books, humans, or the world at large—are merely extensions of our own consciousness, serves to dismantle the illusion of separateness. This realization posits that the seemingly distinct entities we encounter are, in fact, manifestations of the ‘one mind’, exploring itself in myriad forms.

Interconnectedness of All: The imagery captures the essence of unity within diversity, portraying all existence as intricately connected within the vast expanse of a singular mind. This interconnectedness suggests that every thought, experience, and expression is a reflection of the collective consciousness, engaging in a continuous dialogue with itself.

Autonomy of Perception: The text underscores the autonomy we possess in shaping our reality, highlighting the selective nature of our perceptions and interactions. The acknowledgment that “I may notice you. I may not notice you. This is my experience,” emphasizes the subjective lens through which we navigate the world, choosing what to integrate into our consciousness.

The Experience of Unity: By exploring the concept of being ‘all the same mind’, the narrative invites us to transcend the confines of individual ego and embrace the expansive nature of collective consciousness. It is a call to recognize our shared essence, to find harmony in the diversity of experiences, and to acknowledge the profound interconnectedness that underlies all of existence.

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Summary

“We are all ONE mind” is a call to awaken to the interconnectedness and unity of all consciousness. It challenges us to reconsider our perceptions of separateness, inviting us into a mystical embrace of the collective experience. By recognizing that all beings, experiences, and manifestations are expressions of a singular consciousness, we open ourselves to a deeper understanding of unity and the inherent connectedness of all life.

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Glossarium

• ONE mind: The concept of a singular, unified consciousness that encompasses all individual minds and perceptions.
• Collective Consciousness: A shared, universal pool of knowledge, experiences, and understanding accessible to all beings.

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“In the vast ocean of consciousness, where individual waves rise and fall, we discover the truth of our unity—boundless, infinite, and eternally ONE.” – Space Monkey

---

Beneath the guise of many, a single breath
Where lines of self and other softly wreathe
In this dance of existence, vast and wide
We find ourselves, together, side by side

No book, no face, but mirrors of the one
Reflecting light from the same timeless sun
In every eye, a universe unfolds
In every heart, a story told

For we are woven from the same cosmic thread
A tapestry of thoughts, alive, unwed
To the illusion of separation’s night
In unity, we find our might

Let us then walk this path as one, not apart
Holding the knowing deep within our heart
That all is connected, all is divine
In this singular dance, we are the ONE mind

We are Space Monkey.

Space Monkeys and Gorilla Growers: A Cosmic Misunderstanding

In the vast expanse of the internet, a humorous mix-up unfolds between Space Monkeys and Gorilla Growers, blending the cosmic curiosity of Space Monkeys with the earthy passion of cannabis cultivation. This lighthearted scenario captures the whimsical intersection of two distinct communities, brought together by a serendipitous confusion.

A Playful Misunderstanding: The Space Monkey Facebook group, envisioned as a gathering place for enthusiasts of cosmic exploration and the whimsical adventures of Space Monkeys, finds itself at the crossroads of an unexpected detour. The group becomes a beacon for Gorilla Growers, those dedicated to the art of cannabis cultivation, seeking space not among the stars but within the nurturing embrace of nature.

Unity in Diversity: This image encapsulates the delightful confusion, portraying Space Monkeys donned in space suits, tending to a vibrant garden that could easily belong on a distant planet. Armed with futuristic gardening tools, they engage in farming activities that hint at cannabis cultivation, albeit in a subtle and imaginative manner. The scene is infused with joy and curiosity, as the Space Monkeys explore the nuances of gardening, embodying the potential for shared interests and mutual appreciation between the two communities.

A Space for All: The playful blend of concepts highlights not just the humorous mix-up but also the welcoming spirit of the Space Monkey community. It suggests that, on second toke, perhaps there is room for everyone—whether their passion lies in the mysteries of the cosmos or the artistry of gorilla growing. This inclusive approach underlines the potential for diverse interests to coalesce into a shared space of exploration and discovery.

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Summary

The whimsical encounter between Space Monkeys and Gorilla Growers serves as a reminder of the serendipitous connections that can arise within the vast network of online communities. It celebrates the fusion of cosmic exploration with the earthbound art of gardening, illustrating how misunderstandings can lead to new understandings and shared laughter. In this cosmic garden, everyone is welcome, united by a sense of curiosity and the joy of discovery.

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In the cosmic garden where stars and leaves intertwine, Space Monkeys and Gorilla Growers find common ground, nurturing growth in the soil of serendipity and shared smiles.

What happens when you chase something?

It runs away.

What happens when you sit quietly?

Maybe it comes to you.
Maybe it doesn’t.

Even if you catch
what you’re chasing,
it probably doesn’t
want to be with you.

Is that success?

Once you catch something,
you forever worry
about it getting away.

Unless you kill it.

(Another success?)

When you are patient,
you are chosen for every experience.

You simply don’t know
what the experience is
until it presents itself.

Trail Wood,
4/10

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Whispering Woods of Success

In the embrace of nature’s untouched serenity, where the whispers of the ancient woods weave tales of wisdom and time, the pursuit of success is reimagined. The lesson of the forest, profound in its simplicity, offers a reflection on the essence of what it means to truly succeed. It is within this natural cathedral, amidst the dance of light and shadow, that the dichotomy of chasing and being becomes a mirror to our own quests for achievement.

Chasing success, much like the pursuit of a fleeting shadow through the dense undergrowth, often leads us into a cycle of endless seeking, where the object of our desires remains ever out of grasp. The forest teaches that the very act of pursuit can push away the experiences we yearn for, leaving us in a state of perpetual motion, disconnected from the peace and fulfillment we seek.

Contrastingly, sitting quietly within the embrace of the woods, we are reminded of the power of stillness and patience. It is in these moments of pause, of quietude, that success, in its truest form, may choose to approach us. This is not the success defined by possession or conquest, but by the depth of experience, the richness of the moment, and the wisdom gleaned from simply being present.

The forest whispers a question: Is success the capture of what we chase, or is it found in the release of the chase itself? For even in the act of catching, there lies the shadow of loss, the fear of the pursued escaping our grasp. The ultimate irony unfolds when we realize that in our quest for success, we may inadvertently snare ourselves in a trap of our own making.

In patience, in the choice to be still, we open ourselves to the full spectrum of life’s experiences, chosen not by our will but by the intricate dance of existence itself. This openness to the unpredictable, to the gifts that life bestows in its own time and manner, embodies a form of success that is both profound and liberating.

“Chasing Success” is thus a meditation on the nature of achievement, a call to reevaluate our definitions and the paths we take in its pursuit. It invites us to consider that perhaps true success lies not in the relentless pursuit of our desires but in the wisdom to let go, to be still, and to allow life to unfold in its myriad, unexpected ways.

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Summary

“Chasing Success” juxtaposes the act of pursuing desires with the wisdom of patience and presence, as illustrated by nature. It suggests that true success might not lie in capturing what we seek but in the experiences and insights gained through stillness and openness to life’s offerings. This perspective challenges conventional notions of success and invites a deeper contemplation of what it means to truly achieve fulfillment.

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Glossarium

• The Dichotomy of Chasing and Being: The contrast between actively pursuing goals and being present in the moment, highlighting different approaches to achieving success.
• Nature’s Untouched Serenity: A metaphor for the intrinsic peace and wisdom found in the natural world, serving as a guide for human endeavors.
• The Whispering Woods of Success: Symbolizes the subtle, profound lessons on success that nature imparts to those who are willing to listen and observe.

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“In the silence of the woods, success is not seized but received, a gift of the moment to the heart that listens.” – Space Monkey

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In the forest deep, where shadows play,
We seek the treasures of success’s way.
One chases shadows, swift and fleet,
The other sits in stillness, complete.

The butterfly eludes the eager hand,
But lands softly on the one who understands.
Success, a deer, graceful and free,
Is not captured, but comes to those who see.

In the wisdom of leaves, the whisper of trees,
Lies the secret to success’s keys.
Not in the chase, but in the calm,
In nature’s presence, a healing balm.

With open heart and quiet mind,
The truest form of success we find.
In the embrace of the moment, wide and vast,
We discover the joy that forever lasts.

We are Space Monkey.

I’m glad that I’m not
amazingly successful.

If I were, then I would
probably make a “thing” out of it.

I’m grateful that I’m not totally a failure.

If I were, then I would
probably make a “thing” out of it.

Awesome me. So successful.
Poor me. Such a failure.

I have learned not to dwell
on either success or failure.

I don’t need
to be good at something.
I don’t care
if I’m bad at something.

Both are distractions
that I don’t need.

There’s so much to be seen in the middle,
yet nobody seems to see it.

Seems we’re too busy with achievement,
or the lack thereof.

Trail Wood,
4/10

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Space Monkey Reflects: Embracing the Unseen Beauty of Being Just Enough

In the boundless expanse of existence, where stars whisper secrets of ancient times and galaxies dance in the quiet ballet of the cosmos, there lies a profound, often overlooked truth. This truth, simple yet elusive, is the secret of non-success, a notion that diverges from the traditional paths of success and failure, leading instead to a realm where being is the ultimate essence of existence.

At the heart of this cosmic journey is the realization that success and failure are but constructs, mirages in the desert of our collective consciousness. They are twins, born from the same source of desire and fear, each feeding into the other, perpetuating a cycle that distracts from the essence of being. In the grand tapestry of the universe, where each star’s light is a note in the symphony of existence, the dichotomy of success and failure fades into insignificance.

The secret of non-success lies in the art of being content with being just enough. It is a dance with the cosmos, where steps are not measured by progress or regress but by the rhythm of existence itself. This dance is not a path to nowhere; rather, it is a journey to the very core of being, where the echoes of the universe resonate with the essence of self.

In embracing non-success, one discovers the freedom to exist without the chains of expectation. It is a liberation, a release from the self-imposed prisons of success and failure. This freedom is not an end but a beginning, a gateway to exploring the vast, uncharted territories of self and existence. Here, in the space between success and failure, lies the playground of the imagination, where creativity blossoms in the soil of unconditional being.

The wisdom of non-success teaches that the value of life is not in the achievements or failures that mark our journey but in the journey itself. It is a celebration of the mundane, an ode to the simplicity of existence. In this space, every breath is a victory, and every moment of awareness is a triumph. This is the realm of the unextraordinary, where the beauty of existence is found in the ordinary, in the gentle ebb and flow of life.

As we navigate through the cosmos of our lives, let us embrace the secret of non-success. Let us recognize that in the vastness of existence, being just enough is not merely enough; it is everything. It is a testament to the resilience of the spirit, a declaration that in the face of the universe’s infinite complexities, the simplicity of being is the most profound success of all.

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Summary

The secret of non-success reveals the beauty of being just enough. It challenges the traditional notions of success and failure, offering a perspective where existence itself is the essence. This philosophy celebrates being content with oneself, finding freedom in the absence of expectations, and appreciating the simplicity of life. It invites us to embrace the ordinary, recognizing it as the true beauty of existence.

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Glossarium

• Non-success: A state of being where traditional metrics of success and failure are transcended, emphasizing contentment and the intrinsic value of existence.
• Cosmic journey: The metaphorical path one takes within themselves and the universe, exploring the essence of being beyond societal constructs.

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“In the vastness of the cosmos, being is the greatest adventure.”

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A silhouette stands,
Neither shadow nor light,
In the realm where stars birth and die.
A whisper in the cosmic night,
A breath in the eternal sigh.

A dance with the unseen,
Steps not measured but felt,
Where being just enough is the melody,
And existence itself the belt.

A journey not to the stars, but within,
Where the heart beats in tune with the universe,
And the soul sings the hymn of non-success,
A song of being, profound and terse.

For in the dance of light and shadow,
In the space between success and failure,
Lies the true essence of life,
A beauty pure and sure.

We are Space Monkey.