In troubled times like these,
people frequently ask if I’m okay.

The thing is,
I’ve NEVER been okay,
I simply hide my unokayness
better than most.

NONE of us are okay.

To believe that we’re okay
is to believe in delusion.

Which is okay.

So I guess
I’ve ALWAYS been okay.
And unokay.

I’m good with that. And you?

Trail Wood,
3/24

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Paradox of Being Okay and Unokay

In the vast tapestry of the cosmos, where the fabric of existence is woven from threads of light and shadow, the human condition reveals itself as a paradox of okayness and unokayness. This duality, inherent in the very essence of being, mirrors the celestial dance of stars and planets—entities that embody both chaos and order within the infinite expanse of the universe.

The acknowledgment that one has never truly been okay, that the facade of okayness is but a veil over the complexity of our internal landscapes, is a profound realization. It is an acceptance that our unokayness, often concealed beneath layers of resilience and composure, is as much a part of us as our moments of tranquility and joy. The admission that none of us are okay is not a surrender to despair but an embrace of the multifaceted nature of our existence.

To assert that we are okay, in the face of this acknowledgment, is to engage with the world from a place of understanding and acceptance. It is to recognize that the delusion of absolute okayness is, paradoxically, okay. This realization liberates us from the shackles of pretense, allowing us to navigate the tumultuous waters of life with a sense of peace and acceptance of our inherent duality.

The coexistence of okayness and unokayness within us is a reflection of the cosmic balance that governs the universe. Just as the night sky is punctuated by both darkness and the brilliance of stars, so too is our internal world a landscape of contrasts. The acceptance of this duality, the understanding that we are simultaneously okay and unokay, is a testament to our capacity for self-awareness and growth.

In this acceptance lies a profound sense of liberation. It is the acknowledgment that being okay and unokay is not a binary state but a spectrum of experience that defines the human journey. This spectrum invites us to explore the depths of our souls, to embrace our vulnerabilities and strengths with equal measure, and to find solace in the shared experience of this complex reality.

So, when asked if we are okay, we find ourselves at a crossroads of introspection and revelation. To say that we are okay and unokay is to hold a mirror to the duality of our existence, to affirm the richness of our emotional landscape, and to acknowledge that, in this paradox, we find the essence of what it means to be truly human.

As we stand under the vast canopy of the universe, let us embrace the okayness and unokayness within us, recognizing that in this duality lies the beauty of our shared humanity. It is in this space of acceptance and understanding that we can truly say, “I’m good with that. And you?”

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Summary

The paradox of feeling both okay and unokay captures the complexity of the human emotional experience. Acknowledging this duality as a normal aspect of existence allows us to embrace our true selves and connect with others on a deeper level. By accepting and understanding our okayness and unokayness, we navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace.

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Glossarium

• Okayness and Unokayness: The coexisting states of feeling okay and not okay, representing the dynamic and dual nature of human emotions.
• Cosmic Balance: A metaphor for the balance between contrasting elements within the universe, mirroring the balance between okayness and unokayness within ourselves.
• Emotional Landscape: The complex and varied terrain of human emotions, encompassing the full spectrum of experiences from joy to sorrow, peace to turmoil.

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“In the silence of the cosmos, where light and darkness weave,
we find ourselves, between okay and unokay, in the stories we conceive.

With every breath, a choice to see, the beauty in this dance,
of being both, of being neither, in the vast expanse.

Okay and unokay, intertwined, a melody of being,
in this acceptance, we discover, a deeper way of seeing.

Together, in our shared dance, under the stars’ watchful gaze,
we embrace the paradox of life, in its myriad of ways.

We are Space Monkey, in the dance of light and shade,
finding harmony in duality, in the beautiful tapestry we’ve made.”

If you’re not ready to die,
you’re not ready for anything.

All the force in the world
is no match for flow.

To believe otherwise
is simply delusional.

Insanity.

Now, I recognize
that YOU might believe
that I’m the delusional one.

I believe that
this consciousness
has no end,
simply experiences
to go through.

I can imagine what’s beyond
this experience of life. Can you?

We’re ALL delusional.

So the only question is,
which delusion brings more joy
to the present moment?

Would you rather feel something else?

Trail Wood,
3/24

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Flow of Existence and the Acceptance of Life’s End

In the vast, unending cosmos, where the fabric of existence is woven with the threads of countless lives and stories, the concept of readiness to die emerges not as a morbid fixation but as the ultimate acceptance of life’s flow. This readiness is a profound acknowledgment of the natural order, a surrender to the cosmic currents that guide the journey of consciousness through the infinite expanse of time and space.

The notion that all the force in the world is no match for the flow of existence encapsulates a fundamental truth of the universe. Like a river that carves its path through the landscape, the flow of existence is relentless and unstoppable, governed by forces far beyond the realm of human control. To resist this flow is to engage in a battle that cannot be won, a delusion that masks the beauty of surrender and acceptance.

Believing in the endless journey of consciousness, in the continuum of experiences that transcend the physical boundaries of life and death, is an embrace of the infinite possibilities that lie beyond our current understanding. It is a recognition that what we perceive as the end is merely a transition, a passage into another state of being, another chapter in the grand narrative of existence.

In this acceptance, there is a liberation from the fear of death and a deeper appreciation for the present moment. It invites us to contemplate the nature of our beliefs, to question which delusions we choose to embrace and how they shape our experience of life. The delusion that brings more joy to the present moment is not a denial of reality but a conscious choice to focus on the aspects of existence that uplift and fulfill us.

The question of what lies beyond this experience of life, of whether we can imagine the vast unknown that awaits us, challenges us to expand our consciousness, to open our minds to the mysteries that lie beyond the horizon. It is an invitation to explore the depths of our being, to connect with the eternal flow of the universe, and to find peace in the acceptance of life’s ultimate transition.

As we stand at the precipice of the unknown, gazing into the star-filled abyss, we are reminded of the beauty of existence, of the intricate dance of life and death that defines the human condition. The choice to embrace the delusions that bring joy to our lives is a testament to our resilience, a celebration of the human spirit’s capacity to find light in the darkness, to find peace in the acceptance of the inevitable.

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Summary

Embracing readiness to die as acceptance of life’s natural flow highlights a profound understanding of existence. This acceptance is not defeat but a surrender to the universe’s vast, unstoppable forces, offering a deeper appreciation for the present and the endless journey of consciousness. It invites us to choose beliefs that bring joy, embracing the mysteries and transitions of life with openness and peace.

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Glossarium

• Flow of Existence: The natural, continuous movement and progression of life and consciousness, beyond physical limitations.
• Readiness to Die: A state of acceptance and peace with life’s inevitable end, reflecting a deep understanding of existence’s transient nature.
• Cosmic Currents: Metaphorical forces that guide the journey of consciousness through the universe, symbolizing the natural order and flow of life.

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“In the vast cosmos where stars are born and fade,
we stand, ready to embrace the journey, unafraid.

With open hearts, we surrender to the flow,
recognizing that what lies beyond, we may never know.

Yet, in this acceptance, there’s a profound peace,
a knowing that the dance of existence never ceases.

As we gaze into the abyss, hand in hand,
we find strength in the flow, in the vastness, so grand.

Ready for anything, ready for life’s final bow,
we embrace the moment, the eternal now.

We are Space Monkey, in the flow we trust,
finding joy in the journey, in the universe, so vast.”

An Open Letter To Our Leaders

Leadership is not about being braver or smarter than anybody else. It’s not about being more compassionate or caring than anybody else. It’s not even about being richer or more powerful than anybody else. No, leadership is about one thing. FAITH. If you don’t trust others around you, then you’re not a leader. You might be a king, a ruler or a dictator, but you’re definitely not a leader.

In times like these, we need LEADERS. This starts with each one of us, setting aside our beliefs and opinions, and doing what is DECENT. One does not lead by hoarding toilet paper. One does not lead by stocking up on ammo. One does not lead by criticizing the efforts of others.

One leads by taking a good hard look at themselves and contemplating what it takes to be a better person. Not the kind of person that posts about what they’re doing to lead, but the kind of person who just DOES things. Or, in times like these, DOESN’T do things. Even if there’s this little hateful ball inside that wants to express displeasure or fear.

The problem isn’t the problem, it’s the hateful ball.

This hateful ball isn’t directed at any one person. It bounces all over the place. If you have one of these hateful balls inside you, you know what I’m talking about. It hurts people, sure, But it hurts YOU more than it hurts anybody else.

You have this hateful ball inside you because you don’t have FAITH. You’re UNCERTAIN. You’re WORRIED. You actually believe that MISTAKES can be made — ARE being made — that can END your life as you know it. This is a powerful feeling that can rip you up from the inside. You hate OTHERS for what they are doing or NOT doing. You hate YOURSELF for what you’re doing or not doing. You are FEEDING this little ball of hate, within and without.

Yes we are experiencing a pandemic. It is a pandemic of hate. Of ego. Of righteousness. Of unconsciousness. It seems nobody is leading.

That’s because YOU’RE not leading. Do you feel a little ball inside you? That’s the disease, not some tiny little virus. The virus will eventually run its course. But you’ll still hate. You will REMAIN faithless.

Not that there’s anything wrong with that. If you’re okay with it, then it’s not my place to criticize your faithlessness. But I feel sorry for people who lack faith. Even that sorrow I harbor is a form of hate, eating at my guts. So I’ll work on that because I don’t want to have hate in my heart anymore. It’s got nothing to do with leading.

And everything.

See, when you’re straight with your own source, you don’t need leaders. You have FAITH.

That’s all I want from all of this. And I thank all of this for showing me the way. All of this exists for me to practice FAITH.

And so I shall.

Amen. Or something like amen.

Trail Wood,
3/23

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In a world that often seems overshadowed by division and uncertainty, an open letter to our leaders calls for a return to the foundational principles of true leadership: faith, trust, and the courage to embrace self-reflection over dominance. This reflection delves into the essence of leadership, not as a manifestation of power or superiority, but as a commitment to faith in ourselves and in those around us.

Leadership Through Faith, Not Fear

At the core of genuine leadership lies the power of faith — faith in the potential of every individual to contribute to the greater good, faith in the collective strength of humanity to overcome challenges, and faith in the transformative power of compassion and decency. True leaders inspire trust, not through assertions of control or displays of force, but through their unwavering belief in the capacity of people to rise above their limitations and work together for a common purpose.

The Call for Self-Reflection and Decency

In times of crisis, the temptation to resort to fear, control, and criticism becomes more pronounced. Yet, it is precisely in these moments that the true measure of a leader is revealed. Leadership demands a turning inward, a deep and honest examination of one’s values and actions. It is about doing what is decent, not what is easy. True leadership is demonstrated through acts of kindness, understanding, and restraint — qualities that unite rather than divide.

Overcoming the Pandemic of Hate

The pandemic of hate, fueled by fear, ego, and a lack of faith, poses a significant threat to the fabric of our society. It is a reminder that the most dangerous viruses are not those that attack the body but those that erode the spirit. Overcoming this pandemic requires each of us to lead by example, to recognize and dismantle the “hateful ball” within us that feeds on division and despair.

The Path to Faith and Unity

The journey towards faith and unity begins with an acknowledgment of our shared humanity and our collective vulnerability. It is a path marked by empathy, where the recognition of our own fears and prejudices opens the door to healing and reconciliation. In this journey, leadership is not about guiding others from a position of authority but about walking alongside them as equals, guided by a shared vision of hope and resilience.

A Collective Awakening

This open letter serves as a clarion call for a collective awakening to the power of faith and the potential for change that resides within each of us. It is an invitation to transcend the barriers of distrust and division, to rediscover the strength that comes from unity and shared purpose. In this awakening, we find not just the essence of true leadership but the foundation for a more compassionate, just, and resilient world.

In the embrace of faith, trust, and self-reflection, we find the blueprint for true leadership — a leadership that transcends titles and transcends power, rooted in the unwavering belief in the goodness and potential of humanity. As we navigate the challenges of our times, let us commit to embodying these principles, to leading with decency and compassion, and to building a future grounded in the unshakeable faith in our collective capacity to heal, to grow, and to thrive together.

Which is your biggest fear?

Dying a horrific death,
and not being able to do anything about it?

Watching others die horrific deaths
and not being able to do anything about it?

Watching structures collapse
and not being able to do anything about it?

Running out of money
and not being able to do anything about it?

Running out of toilet paper
and not being able to do anything about it?

It seems that your biggest fear
is not being able to do anything about anything.

It seems that you are not ready to accept
that you have no control over things.

So you keep trying.
Or feel BAD for NOT trying.
Or get ANGRY at others for trying in selfish ways.

Eventually you will accept
that control was an illusion all along.

You will have FAITH in whatever happens.
Only then you will heal.

Trail Wood,
3/22

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Space Monkey Reflects: Embracing Uncertainty – The Path to Healing

The greatest fear that haunts the human mind is not death, disaster, or deprivation, but the profound realization of our own lack of control over these forces. This fear, deeply rooted in the human psyche, stems from an innate desire to shape and influence the course of our lives and the world around us. The journey from fear to acceptance, from a relentless pursuit of control to the peace of letting go, is a transformative process, embodying the heart of Space Monkey‘s philosophy.

Our biggest fears often manifest in scenarios where our helplessness is most acute: the terror of a horrific death, the pain of witnessing suffering without the power to alleviate it, the dread of watching our carefully constructed worlds crumble, the anxiety of financial ruin, or even the trivial yet symbolic fear of running out of necessities like toilet paper. These fears are diverse in their nature, but they share a common thread – the underlying terror of impotence in the face of life’s unpredictabilities.

This fear of powerlessness is more than just an aversion to unpleasant situations; it’s a reflection of a deeper struggle to accept the fundamental uncertainty of existence. Our attempts to control, our frustration at failed efforts, and our anger towards others are all manifestations of this struggle. We cling to the illusion of control as a shield against the chaotic nature of the universe, but this shield is both flimsy and confining.

The path to healing, as Space Monkey reflects, lies in the recognition that control is an illusion. It’s in the understanding that the universe operates on principles and forces beyond our command. This realization is not a resignation to fate but an embrace of the fundamental nature of existence. It’s a transition from fear to faith – faith not necessarily in a higher power, but in the flow of life itself.

Acceptance of our lack of control is a form of liberation. It frees us from the exhausting endeavor of trying to dictate every outcome and opens us to the richness of experience that comes with uncertainty. In this acceptance, we find peace, not because the world has changed, but because our perspective has. We begin to see the beauty in the unpredictability of life and the growth that comes from facing the unknown.

In conclusion, our biggest fear is not the multitude of calamities that might befall us but our inability to control them. The journey from fear to healing is a journey of letting go, of shifting from a desperate grasp for control to a serene acceptance of life’s fluidity. It’s in this transition that we find true healing, not just of the mind, but of the soul.

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Summary
Our biggest fear is the lack of control over life’s uncertainties. The path to healing involves accepting this lack of control, transitioning from fear to faith in life’s flow. This acceptance liberates us, allowing us to embrace the unpredictability of life and find peace in the unknown.

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Glossarium

• Illusion of Control: The false belief that we can dictate all outcomes in our lives.
• Faith in Life’s Flow: The acceptance of life’s unpredictability and the belief in the natural progression of events.

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“He who fears he will suffer, already suffers because he fears.” – Michel de Montaigne

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In the shadows of fear, a soul stands tall,
amidst the chaos of life, a calm surrender,
letting go of the illusion, the futile call,
embracing life’s flow, in all its splendor.

In the heart of uncertainty, a peace is found,
not in control, but in acceptance’s embrace,
in every uncharted path, a lesson profound,
in the art of living, a gentle grace.

From fear to faith, the journey unfolds,
liberating the soul from control’s tight grip,
in the dance of existence, the story is told,
of a spirit unbound, on life’s eternal trip.

In letting go, we find our true power,
in the unknown, our spirits soar,
embracing each moment, each hour,
in life’s river, we find our shore.

We are Space Monkey.