Trains of Thought

We never have
problems with people,
only their trains of thought.

They believe
what they believe,
and their train
is going in a
different direction
than your train.

To you,
a head-on collision
seems imminent.

To them,
their track is wide open.

They are not even on your track.

This is why
they are not arguing
that you are wrong.

You believe yourself right,
and it seems difficult changing that.

They, on the other hand,
believe that you can be right
AND they can be right, so no problem.

The problem is you.
You believe there’s a problem.

And they don’t.

You think
that they SHOULD
believe that
there’s a problem.

But they don’t.

YOU are trying to IMPOSE
your problem on them.

People do not generally
like being imposed upon.

So, in essence,
you are CREATING
a problem by making your
opposition known.

Repeat.
Your problem has NOTHING to do
with that OTHER person.

You are MAKING it
about that other person.

Your limiting beliefs are
making it VERY DIFFICULT
for anyone else
to have their beliefs.

Not without conflict, anyway.

Arising from YOU.

But don’t take it the wrong way.

I’m talking to myself.

So I won’t.

Trail Wood,
6/5

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Space Monkey Reflects: Navigating the Diverging Trains of Thought

The metaphor of “Trains of Thought” provides a vivid illustration of how individual beliefs and perceptions travel along their own unique tracks, often leading to different destinations without the necessity of conflict. This imagery encapsulates the essence of human diversity in thought and the potential for peaceful coexistence despite differing perspectives.

In this landscape, each train—each person’s train of thought—moves along a track laid out by their experiences, beliefs, and values. The modern, sleek train represents those who embrace progressive, open-minded approaches, while the traditional, sturdy train symbolizes a more conservative, perhaps steadfast viewpoint. The divergence of these tracks into separate horizons symbolizes the realization that differing viewpoints need not lead to conflict but can instead signify the healthy plurality of human thought.

The peaceful setting, with no imminent collisions, challenges the often-held assumption that different must mean oppositional. It reinforces the idea that acknowledging the separate journeys of understanding can lead to a more harmonious coexistence. It is a call to appreciate that the landscape of human beliefs is vast and varied, and that each path, though different, has its own validity and rationale.

This reflection also addresses the personal realization that conflict often arises not from the actual differences in thought but from the insistence that these differences must inherently lead to a problem—that one’s own train of thought must either converge with another’s or face inevitable collision. The acknowledgment that “the problem is you” serves as a profound personal insight into the source of conflict: it is not the existence of different tracks but the refusal to accept these tracks can exist independently and without conflict.

By embracing this metaphor, we are invited to consider our own trains of thought. Are we seeking to impose our route on others, or are we open to the parallel journeys that others are taking? This perspective encourages a shift from conflict to curiosity, from imposing to understanding, fostering a space where multiple truths can coexist without the need for dominance or submission.

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Summary

The metaphor of ‘Trains of Thought’ highlights the diversity of human perspectives and the potential for peaceful coexistence despite these differences. It encourages an understanding that conflicts arise not from differences themselves but from our responses to these differences.

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Glossarium

Trains of Thought: A metaphor for individual lines of reasoning or belief systems, depicted as trains traveling on distinct tracks, symbolizing different but valid perspectives.

Parallel Journeys: Represents the concept that differing viewpoints can coexist harmoniously, moving in parallel without intersecting or conflicting.

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Quote

“Different tracks do not a collision make; it is our refusal to allow divergence that brings conflict.” — Space Monkey

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Poem

Along the rails of thought we glide
each in our carriage, side by side
no tracks to cross, no need to vie
under the vast, unending sky

Your journey’s yours, and mine is mine
with different scenes, by design
no train need halt, no path converge
within this peaceful, rolling surge

Let’s honor each distinct ride
celebrate how wide
the tracks can span, the views can be
in this rail network of humanity

Here, respect is the fuel we use
as we travel, as we muse
for in this journey, shared yet sole
we find the collective, heartfelt goal

We are Space Monkey.

In the absence
of time and space,
judgment does not exist.

Without a past to regret,
without a future to hope,
self does not exist, either.

But source exists.
Potential exists.
I exist.

Time and space are a bubble.
Elsewhere the rules do not apply.

I am in that bubble.
I am outside that bubble.
I am that bubble.

I am Elsewhere and I am here.

I-imagination-I.

Trail Wood
6/5

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Space Monkey Reflects: Navigating the Realms of ‘I am Elsewhere and I am Here’

The profound concept of ‘I am Elsewhere and I am Here’ explores the existential fluidity between being physically present in one realm and simultaneously existing in another, transcendent dimension. This theme delves into the metaphysical idea that our consciousness can inhabit multiple planes of existence—tied neither solely to the physical world nor completely adrift in abstract spaces.

In the visualization, the figure split into three parts—within a bubble, outside it, and as the bubble itself—symbolizes the complex nature of our existence. Each segment represents different facets of being: physical presence within defined realms (the bubble), transcendental existence in a limitless universe (‘Elsewhere’), and the embodiment of the boundary that both separates and connects these states (the bubble itself).

This tripartite existence challenges our conventional understanding of space and time. It suggests that while we navigate our daily lives within the tangible confines of time and space, part of us also dwells in ‘Elsewhere’—a realm where conventional rules of physics and linear time do not apply. Here, the concepts of past regrets or future hopes dissolve, leaving only the pure essence of potential and existence.

The notion that ‘I am that bubble’ deepens this exploration, positing that we are not just passive occupants of the universe but also active creators and definers of our realities. We embody the thresholds we perceive, crafting them through our experiences and our consciousness.

This perspective invites us to reconsider the nature of our reality and our place within it. It beckons us to embrace a broader, more inclusive understanding of existence, where the limitations of time and space are perceived not as barriers but as one of many stages on which the drama of existence unfolds.

In this existential contemplation, the lines between imagination and reality blur, suggesting that our truest self—our source and potential—transcends these boundaries. It is in embracing this expansive view of existence that we can truly comprehend the depth and breadth of being, existing simultaneously ‘Elsewhere’ and ‘Here’.

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Summary

The concept ‘I am Elsewhere and I am Here’ illustrates the fluid existence across different dimensions, challenging the traditional boundaries of time and space. It emphasizes a deeper, metaphysical presence that transcends physical limitations, offering a richer, more layered understanding of our own existence.

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Glossarium

Elsewhere: A metaphysical space beyond the conventional dimensions of time and space, representing limitless potential and existence.

I-imagination-I: A phrase symbolizing the cyclical nature of self and imagination, where the self is both a product and a producer of imaginative reality.

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Quote

“In the dance of existence, we are the music, the dancers, and the dance floor—all at once.” — Space Monkey

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Poem

Across the bounds of time and space
where thoughts like stars find their place
I am here, yet also there
in the breath of cosmic air

Within the bubble, life unfolds
outside, the endless story told
and I, the weaver of these dreams
connect the seams of extremes

Elsewhere is here, within my grasp
in each moment, in each clasp
the universe within me lies
beneath the earth, beyond the skies

In this vast play of existence
I find my timeless, boundless dance
I am the echo of the sphere
forever Elsewhere, always here

We are Space Monkey.

See, the problem is that you’re trying to make something out of yourself when you don’t NEED to You are PERFECT as you are and there’s nothing you’ve ever done or ever will do that can change that You imagine this life — your life —because what ELSE is there to do? You’re the DIVINE ONE The ONLY one. No matter how hard you try, no matter how deeply you imagine separation between black, white, man, woman, time, space — no matter how REAL your imagination seems — it’s STILL imaginary. There is NO ONE ELSE. YOU create ALL of it Can you imagine how much ENERGY is required to form and hold all creation together? That energy is YOU.

You are PERFECTION, no more, no less.

Trail Wood,
6/5

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Illusion and Reality of Perfection

Within the infinite gaze of Space Monkey, where all of existence is seen as a play of cosmic forces, the concept of Perfection stands out as both a profound truth and a pervasive illusion. This reflection delves into the nature of perfection as an inherent quality of the divine self, exploring the paradoxical ways in which we perceive separation and distinction where none truly exists.

Perfection is not something to be achieved but a realization of what already is. It is the understanding that each entity, each moment, each breath is a perfect expression of the divine. The struggle to make something of oneself, to become ‘better’ or ‘more’, is revealed to be unnecessary because the essence of what we are is already flawless.

The image of a figure radiating light in a landscape where time and space meld seamlessly represents this truth. The figure, a symbol of the divine self, stands in the center, surrounded by a spectrum of colors that blur into one another, illustrating the unity of all existence. This visual metaphor captures the essence of the teaching that all perceived separations—between black and white, man and woman, time and space—are mere constructs of the imagination.

This realization carries a profound implication: that the energy required to maintain the illusion of separation is immense and ultimately sourced from the self. It is a call to acknowledge and embrace the energy that we are, the perfection that exists within each of us.

As we contemplate this, we are invited to reconsider our pursuits and the motivations behind them. Are we striving for improvement because we believe we are lacking, or are we celebrating the perfection that is our true nature?

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Summary

Perfection is an inherent quality of the divine self, revealing that all efforts to become something more are unnecessary. Recognizing and embracing our inherent perfection allows us to see the unity in all existence and the illusory nature of perceived separations.

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Glossarium

Perfection: The inherent flawlessness of the divine self, recognizing that all creation is perfect as it is.
Illusion of Separation: The false perception of divisions within the unified whole of existence.

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“You are not a drop in the ocean, but the entire ocean in a drop.” — Space Monkey

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Amidst the cosmos, where stars weave the fabric of the universe, a single light stands resolute, a beacon of perfection in the endless night. Here, in the heart of creation, we find not the pursuit of becoming, but the celebration of being. Each color, each light, each moment is a testament to the perfect symphony of existence, played out in the infinite dance of the universe.

We are Space Monkey.

Perhaps the most important question
you can continually ask yourself is this:

“Can I sense tension 
anywhere
in my body 
or my mind?”

Start with your breath.

Do you even NOTICE
that you are breathing?

Does your breath feel tight,
almost as though you’ve been
holding it in all this time?

Breathe deeply. Let go. Loosen.

Suddenly you notice
all the fragrances around you.

THAT — right THERE — tells you that
you’re not using ALL your senses.

What other senses
are tight and turned off?

Notice the tension.
Loosen the tension.
Now move BEHIND the tension.

This tension marks
your self-imposed boundaries
and limitations.

It is there to help you see BEYOND.

Now that you notice
your tension,
you can let it go.

Thank the tension.

Now continue to explore.

The Great Unexperienced
lies beyond all this tension
you’ve been holding onto.

Previously
you may have called it
the Great Invisible.

Tension was keeping
you from connecting with
the Great Unexperienced
so you could fully appreciate
the limits of humanity.

Been there, done that, right?

No need to be tense
— EVER —
unless you wish to stay
solely within the
Realm of Humanity.

Notice your tension.

Notice ALL tension,
not just that which seems your own.

This is the way into
the Realm of Humanity.

And also the way OUT.

Think of it this way,
though it’s not entirely accurate:

Tension takes high vibration
and makes it low vibration.

Tension turns imagination
into seeming matter.

This is fine if all you want to do
is abide by the laws of ONE reality.

But you contain INFINITE realities.

Tension is the gatekeeper,
both ways.

In and Out.

Where do you want to go today?

Only your tension limits you.

Is there tension in you?

What a great opportunity to explore.

Or not.

Trail Wood,
6/4

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Space Monkey Reflects: Tension as the Portal to Expansion

In the cosmic dance where Space Monkey contemplates the ebb and flow of energies, the concept of Tension serves as a profound guidepost. This reflection explores how tension, often perceived as an obstacle, is actually a crucial indicator and facilitator for personal growth and exploration beyond our self-imposed boundaries.

Tension, both physical and mental, signals areas where we are holding back, where our energies are constricted and our senses are not fully engaged. It highlights the zones within us that are yet unexplored and tightly wound. The act of noticing this tension is the first step in a transformative process that leads to expansion and the utilization of our full sensory capacities.

Starting with the breath, which is often taken for granted, we are invited to notice its quality—tight, restricted, unnoticed—and then encouraged to breathe deeply, to relax and let go. This simple act can open up a world of sensory experiences previously overshadowed by our preoccupations and tensions. It is an awakening to the fragrances around us, a metaphor for awakening to life itself.

As we loosen the tension, we are urged to move behind it, to explore what lies beyond the self-imposed barriers of our comfort zones. This tension is not just a barrier but a marker, indicating where we need to focus our attention to grow and expand. It is there to assist us in seeing beyond the ordinary, to help us connect with the “Great Unexperienced”—a realm of infinite possibilities beyond the mundane experiences of humanity.

This exploration is about more than just personal relaxation; it is about expanding into the realms of higher vibration where imagination transforms into reality. Tension, when acknowledged and explored, serves as a gatekeeper that can either confine us within the realm of humanity or liberate us into the infinite realities we contain.

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Summary

Tension marks the boundaries of our current experiences and serves as a guidepost for expansion beyond these limits. By noticing and addressing our tensions, we can explore new dimensions of existence and embrace a wider range of experiences and realities.

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Glossarium

Tension: A state of mental or physical strain that can indicate areas of personal growth or sensory blockage.
Great Unexperienced: The vast potential of experiences and realities beyond current human understanding and sensory engagement.

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“Tension is the sculptor’s hand that molds our spirit into forms anew.” — Space Monkey

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Beneath the surface of our calm, in the depths where tension binds, lies the untouched soil of potential. Here, we find the seeds of new realities waiting to burst forth. As we breathe into the tension, we loosen the soil, allowing these seeds to sprout. Each breath, a chance to grow; each release, a pathway to new worlds. Through tension, we are both bound and freed, caught in the dance of creation, where each step out is a step deeper into the vastness of our own souls.

We are Space Monkey.

What were you
back in the life
and how do you
feel about it
now that you see
that none of it matters?

Your first
glimpse of Heaven
comes at the cost
of remembering
what you’ve been
missing all this time.

Oh, to realize
how crippled you were,
how emotionally,
physically and
spiritually bereft.

You were handicapped in
the worst and best possible ways.

Now that you see how
inspiring and uninspiring
life seems in comparison to eternity,
will you go back again?



Apparently, yes.



Each time you willingly forget,
just so you can have this epiphany.

Trail Wood,
6/3

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Profound Journey of ‘Epiphany’

The poem “Epiphany” explores the profound realizations that come with a deep spiritual awakening, questioning the essence of our earthly experiences and the possibility of cyclic existence. This reflection delves into the themes of self-discovery, spiritual awareness, and the transformative nature of such epiphanies.

“Epiphany” confronts the reader with the stark realization that much of what we consider important in our daily lives may seem insignificant when viewed from a higher, more enlightened perspective. The poem opens by addressing the reader directly, suggesting that we are often limited by our own perceptions and beliefs—the “god that is you.” This phrase implies that our personal limitations and sufferings are, to some extent, self-imposed, confined by how we perceive and understand ourselves and the world.

As the poem progresses, it challenges us to reflect on our past identities and the impact of our newfound insights. The “first glimpse of Heaven” is described as coming at a cost: the painful awareness of what we’ve been missing. This realization is both enlightening and distressing, revealing how “crippled” we were in our previous state of ignorance—emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

The depiction of life as both “inspiring and uninspiring” in comparison to eternity captures the duality of human existence. It poses an existential question about the value of returning to our mundane realities after such a profound revelation. Yet, the poem suggests that we choose to come back, to forget temporarily, so that we can re-experience this moment of epiphany, highlighting the cyclical nature of growth and self-realization.

Ultimately, “Epiphany” encourages a meditation on the cycles of life and spiritual evolution. It invites us to consider how our moments of greatest insight are both a culmination of past experiences and a starting point for new beginnings. Each cycle offers an opportunity to deepen our understanding and appreciation of both the mundane and the magnificent.

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Summary
The poem ‘Epiphany’ delves into the transformative impact of spiritual realizations, questioning the nature of existence and the value of our earthly experiences in light of eternity. It portrays the spiritual journey as a cycle of forgetting and remembering, which deepens our understanding of life and self.

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Glossarium

• Epiphany: A moment of sudden and profound understanding, often spiritual in nature, where deep insights into life’s ultimate truths are gained.
• Cyclical Existence: The concept that life involves repeated cycles of experience and learning, which contribute to our spiritual evolution and self-awareness.

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Quote
“In the silence of revelation, we confront the truths long veiled by our own shadows, only to realize that each epiphany brings us closer to the divine within.” — Space Monkey

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Through cycles of pain and insight,
In darkness and in light,
Each epiphany a step anew,
To a truth more deep and true.

From crippled past to enlightened gaze,
Through the mundane’s foggy haze,
Each return, each journey’s start,
Brings closer the divine heart.

We are Space Monkey.