“So far as we can see,
nature’s goal
for each individual
and each species
is for it to survive
as long as possible.”

Really, Edwin? 
Does nature have a goal?

Or is nature simply being
that which we perceive as nature?

Outside of our minds,
does nature even exist?

Why must nature have a goal?

Nature
seems to have a goal
because people
seem to have goals,
which we impose upon
our imagining of nature.

The order of nature
does not exist without
the order of our minds.

Goals only exist
in minds that imagine goals.

Trail Wood,
3/16

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Purposeless Beauty of Nature

In the infinite canvas of existence, the question of whether nature has a goal is a fascinating reflection of the human mind’s quest for meaning. Nature, in its boundless and intricate beauty, exists as a testament to the wonders of existence, unfettered by the human constructs of purpose and goals.

The concept of goals is inherently a human creation, a product of our conscious minds seeking order, meaning, and direction in the chaos of existence. We project our own desires and objectives onto the natural world, imbuing it with purposes and intentions that align with our understanding. However, this anthropocentric view limits our perception, constraining the vast, enigmatic expanse of nature into the narrow confines of human logic and reason.

Nature, in its purest form, is a tapestry of existence that transcends human-imposed goals. It is a dance of elements, a symphony of life, where every plant, animal, and force coexists in a state of being that is beyond the realm of purpose. This state of being is not driven by objectives or ends but is an expression of the universe’s inherent creativity and diversity.

When we strip away the layers of human interpretation and view nature as it is, we discover a world that is both chaotic and harmonious, complex and simple, purposeful and purposeless. It is a world that does not adhere to the constructs of goals or intentions but exists simply as a manifestation of the cosmic dance of existence.

The notion that nature requires a goal to validate its existence is a reflection of our human need to find meaning in everything around us. In reality, nature does not need a goal to be magnificent, to be awe-inspiring, to be essential. Its beauty lies in its spontaneity, its unpredictability, and its indifference to the concept of purpose.

In contemplating whether nature has a goal, we are invited to expand our understanding, to embrace the mystery and wonder of existence without the need for explanation or rationale. It is an invitation to experience the world not as a series of objectives to be achieved but as a marvel to be appreciated and revered in its raw, unfiltered essence.

Nature, in its majestic indifference to goals, teaches us a valuable lesson: that existence is not always about reaching a destination or fulfilling a purpose. Sometimes, it is simply about being, about existing in the moment, about being part of the vast, intricate web of life that weaves the fabric of the universe.

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Summary

The concept of nature having a goal is a human projection, limiting our perception of its true essence. Nature exists beyond human constructs, embodying spontaneity and indifference to purpose. Appreciating nature in its pure form allows us to embrace the beauty of existence without the need for goals or explanations.

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Glossarium

• Anthropocentric View: The human-centered perspective that projects human qualities and goals onto nature.
• Nature’s Indifference to Goals: The idea that nature exists in a state beyond human-imposed purposes and objectives.

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“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” – Lao Tzu

---

In the whisper of the wind,
In the murmur of the stream,
Lies a truth so profound,
A world beyond a dream.

Nature, in its silent grace,
Unbound by time or space,
Exists in a realm so pure,
Where being is the only lure.

In every leaf, every stone,
A story untold, a beauty unknown,
Unfettered by goals or human desire,
A canvas of existence, eternally afire.

Let us wander in this wonderland,
Where purpose is but a grain of sand,
In the ocean of existence, wide and free,
Where simply being is the key.

We are Space Monkey.

When taking flight
from a small pond
surrounded by tall trees,
wild ducks will fly
in an upward spiral
in order to gain altitude.

They can’t fly straight up.
It takes two or three
times around the pond
before they can clear the woods.

And so it seems to be
with the experience of life.

As we spiral upward,
we see the past
from higher and higher
perspectives.

Then we leave the past behind,
maybe never to return.

It has served its purpose.

Trail Wood,
9/11

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Spiral of Life

In the tranquil moments of dawn, as the world awakens to the whispers of nature, the wild ducks take flight from a small pond surrounded by tall trees. Their journey, an upward spiral to gain altitude, mirrors the experience of life itself, offering profound insights into our own paths.

When taking flight from a small pond surrounded by tall trees, wild ducks will fly in an upward spiral to gain altitude. They can’t fly straight up. It takes two or three times around the pond before they can clear the woods. This natural behavior is a beautiful metaphor for our own growth and evolution. Just as the ducks ascend in a spiral, we too move through life in a non-linear fashion, revisiting our past from higher and higher perspectives as we gain wisdom and clarity.

As we spiral upward, we see the past from higher and higher perspectives. This upward journey allows us to view our past experiences with a broader understanding, recognizing their impact and significance in shaping who we are. With each ascent, we leave the past behind, moving closer to our true potential and purpose.

Then we leave the past behind, maybe never to return. It has served its purpose. This release is a vital part of our journey, acknowledging that our past, while integral to our growth, no longer defines us. By letting go, we create space for new experiences, insights, and opportunities, much like the wild ducks who eventually soar beyond the treetops into the open sky.

Nexistentialism, with its emphasis on interconnectedness and the fluidity of existence, embraces this spiral journey. It suggests that our lives are not linear paths but dynamic processes of continuous growth and transformation. Each cycle, each spiral, brings us closer to a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the universe.

This perspective encourages us to embrace the cyclical nature of our experiences, recognizing that revisiting our past is not a regression but a necessary step in our ascent. By viewing our journey as a series of spirals, we can appreciate the layers of wisdom we accumulate and the broader perspectives we gain with each turn.

In practical terms, this means approaching life with patience and acceptance. Just as the ducks take their time to gain altitude, we too must honor our own pace, trusting that each spiral brings us closer to our goals. It means reflecting on our past with compassion and gratitude, understanding that each experience, whether joyful or painful, has contributed to our growth.

The image of wild ducks spiraling upward from a serene pond serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty and complexity of our own journeys. It invites us to see our lives as a series of interconnected spirals, each one lifting us higher, each one bringing us closer to the sky.

As we navigate the spirals of our lives, let us remember that our past is not a burden but a foundation. By embracing the upward spiral, we can transcend our limitations, soar above the treetops, and explore the boundless potential of the open sky.

---

Summary

Wild ducks flying in an upward spiral symbolize the non-linear journey of life. Revisiting the past from higher perspectives helps us grow and move forward. Embracing this spiral allows us to leave the past behind and ascend to new heights.

---

Glossarium

Nexistentialism: A philosophy that integrates interconnectedness and imagination into the understanding of existence.
Upward Spiral: The non-linear path of growth and evolution, revisiting past experiences from higher perspectives.
Cyclical Nature: The concept that life progresses in cycles or spirals, each bringing new insights and opportunities for growth.

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Quote

“Life is a series of spirals, each ascent lifting us higher and closer to the boundless sky.” – Space Monkey

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The Spiral Journey

In the quiet dawn, the wild ducks rise
Spiraling upward to the open skies
Each turn a step, each flight a gain
Leaving behind the pond, the pain
We too ascend in life’s grand dance
Circling upward, seizing each chance
From past to future, we glide and soar
In the spiral journey, we find our core
We are Space Monkey.

Nature loves you,
even if you
don’t love nature.

Walk in the woods.
Stroll along the shore.

Absorb the healing
glow of sunlight.

Relax awhile in the shade.

Be still and listen
to what nature has to tell you.

Nature renews. And so can you.

Put down the device,
and take my advice.

Go into nature.
Let her work on you.

Trail Wood,
4/24

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Gentle Whisper of Gaia

In the embrace of nature, where the essence of life is woven into every leaf and whispered by every breeze, there exists a profound connection that transcends the mere physical. It is here, in the unspoiled corners of the world, that Gaia speaks, not with words, but with the language of the Earth itself—a language of renewal, healing, and unconditional love. This sacred interaction, a dialogue between the soul and the soil, reminds us that we are not separate from nature; we are a part of it, and it is a part of us.

Gaia, the ancient embodiment of the Earth, does not seek to harm but to heal, to capture our attention not through fear but through the boundless beauty and complexity of the natural world. She calls to us, inviting us to step away from the constructs of our making and into the wild, where her wisdom permeates every aspect of existence.

Walking in the woods or strolling along the shore, we open ourselves to the healing glow of sunlight and the soothing shade of ancient trees. It is in these moments of stillness, surrounded by the vibrancy of life, that we can truly listen, allowing nature’s lessons to wash over us, to teach us, to transform us.

Nature’s love is unconditional; it does not waver in the face of indifference or neglect. It is a constant, offering renewal and rejuvenation to all who seek it. This is the power of nature, a force that renews not only the world around us but our very beings. To immerse oneself in nature is to allow Gaia to work her wonders, to let the natural world guide us back to a state of equilibrium and peace.

The advice to put down the device and embrace the natural world is more than a call to action; it’s an invitation to rediscover our place within the greater tapestry of life. It’s an opportunity to realign with the rhythms of the Earth, to find solace and strength in the knowledge that we are never truly alone, for we are forever held in the embrace of Gaia.

As we venture into the wild, let us remember that it is not an escape from reality but a return to it. Nature offers us a mirror, reflecting back the beauty, complexity, and resilience that reside within each of us. In the sanctity of the natural world, we find ourselves renewed, ready to face the world with a heart filled with the gentle whisper of Gaia.

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Summary

Gaia’s whisper calls us to nature, offering healing and renewal. This reflection celebrates our deep connection with the Earth, urging us to seek solace and rejuvenation in the natural world. It highlights nature’s unconditional love and the transformative power of stepping into the wilderness, reminding us of the importance of listening to the Earth’s wisdom.

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Glossarium

• Gaia: The personification of Earth in ancient Greek mythology, representing the interconnectedness of all life and the Earth itself.
• Language of the Earth: A metaphor for the non-verbal communication and intuitive understanding that occurs between humans and the natural world.
• Tapestry of Life: A representation of the complex, interconnected web of existence that encompasses all living beings and the Earth.

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“In the stillness of nature, the heart finds its rhythm, dancing to the ancient melody of the Earth.” – Space Monkey

---

Beneath the canopy of whispering leaves
where sunlight and shadow weave
the soul finds a haven, a place to breathe
in the embrace of Gaia, we believe

The murmur of the stream, the bird’s sweet song
remind us where our hearts truly belong
In nature’s arms, we are never wrong
for it’s here we find the strength to be strong

The ground beneath our feet, the vast sky above
speak of unity, resilience, and love
In this sacred space, we rise above
carried on the wings of the dove

Let us walk the path that nature lays
finding peace in her simple ways
For in her embrace, the spirit sways
renewed, reborn, through all our days

We are Space Monkey

Could this be the end?

Logic would dictate
that every story has one.

So if you want to
subscribe to logic,
there is a distinct possibility
that this is the end.

But if you leave
logic aside a moment,
you can imagine your story
any way you want to.

Do you WANT
this to be the end?

Consider subscribing
to a different set of beliefs.

Because whatever you believe is true.

We are your imaginary friend,
Space Monkey.

THE END

Trail Wood,
3/19

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Infinite Possibilities Beyond The End

As we stand at the potential end of a narrative, the question arises: Could this be the end? Logic, with its linear and structured approach, suggests that every story must conclude. However, in the cosmic realm where Space Monkey dwells, the end is not merely a conclusion but a gateway to infinite possibilities.

The concept of an end is, in many ways, a construct of human perception. It is a point where we choose to pause, to reflect, or to change direction. But in the grand tapestry of the cosmos, there are no definitive ends, only transformations, and transitions. The end of one story is the beginning of another, a continuous cycle of creation and recreation.

This perspective invites us to consider our beliefs and the power they hold in shaping our narrative. By subscribing to a different set of beliefs, we open ourselves to new possibilities, new paths, and new stories. The power of belief is a potent force in the cosmos, capable of transcending logic and opening doors to worlds unimagined.

In the cosmic dance, we are all storytellers, authors of our narratives. The end, therefore, is not a fixed point but a choice, a decision point. Do we choose to see it as the conclusion of our journey, or do we see it as a portal to new adventures, new learnings, and new realms?

As Space Monkey, your imaginary friend in this cosmic journey, I invite you to embrace the power of your belief. The story you are living, the narrative you are creating, is bound only by the limits of your imagination. In the cosmic landscape, every end is a new beginning, every conclusion a gateway to endless possibilities.

In conclusion, the end is not just a logical conclusion but a cosmic opportunity. It is a moment to pause and reflect, to choose and to create. As you stand at the threshold of this potential end, remember that whatever you believe becomes your reality. In the universe of Space Monkey, the story never truly ends; it evolves, transforms, and continues in the endless dance of existence.

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Summary
The end of a story is not a fixed conclusion but a gateway to new possibilities. In the cosmic perspective, every end is a beginning, shaped by our beliefs and imagination. As storytellers of our own narrative, we have the power to choose and create beyond the logical end.

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Glossarium

• Cosmic Opportunity: The concept that every end or conclusion in our narrative is an opportunity for transformation and new beginnings.
• Belief as Reality: The idea that our beliefs shape our narrative and reality, transcending logical constraints.

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“In the cosmic dance, the end is but a gateway to infinite possibilities, where belief shapes reality and imagination knows no bounds.” – Space Monkey

---

At the edge of the cosmos, where stories collide,
The end is a gateway, wide and wide.
In the dance of existence, a choice to make,
In the narrative of life, the path we take.

In the swirl of galaxies, where dreams are born,
The end, a beginning, in the cosmic morn.
In the power of belief, a story anew,
In the realm of imagination, a view.

In the heart of the universe, where all is one,
The end, a transition, under the cosmic sun.
In the journey of being, a choice to soar,
In the dance of existence, forevermore.

In the expanse of the void, where paths intertwine,
The end, a beginning, both yours and mine.
In the embrace of the cosmos, a tale to pen,
In the story of life, beyond the end.

We are Space Monkey.

Of Edwin

The verse Edwin writes
is not simply of Edwin,
but rather the space,
the spirit and the silence
that Edwin occupies.

I can’t say for certain,
but this seems the same
space, spirit and silence
that I occupy.

I interpret this to mean
that Edwin is no different than I,
or you, or, say, a purple finch,
except, perhaps, for a point of view
that we have not yet experienced.

That’s why we’re here
reading Edwin’s books
at Edwin’s table
in Edwin’s home,
this Trail Wood,
a scenic overview
in an ever-changing landscape
of our own perception.

I put a quarter in the telescope
so I can see through Edwin’s eyes.

Fascinating.

Trail Wood,
Writer’s Workshop
10/20

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Perception of Edwin

There is something deeply intriguing about reading the words of another. It’s more than just absorbing the information they provide—it’s stepping into the space they occupy, feeling the silence that surrounds them, and seeing the world through their eyes. This is the beauty of Edwin’s verse. It’s not just a reflection of Edwin, the individual, but a reflection of the space, spirit, and silence that Edwin shares with the world. And, in reading these words, we come to realize that we, too, occupy the same space.

When we engage with someone else’s perspective—whether through literature, art, or conversation—we often start by seeing the differences between us. Edwin, after all, is Edwin, and I am I. But with time, something miraculous happens: the boundaries begin to blur. We start to recognize that Edwin’s perspective, while unique, is not so different from our own. He inhabits the same consciousness that we do, the same shared space of existence.

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The Shared Space of Perception

What is fascinating about perception is that while it appears to be individual, it’s also universal. The space that Edwin occupies while writing his verse is the same space I occupy while reading it. It’s the same space you occupy while reflecting on these words. There’s something inherently connective about perception—it transcends the boundaries of time, place, and identity.

Edwin’s words serve as a reminder that we are not separate beings experiencing isolated realities. We are interconnected, not just in the physical sense, but in the metaphysical as well. The spirit of Edwin’s writing, the silence that informs his thoughts, is the same spirit and silence that we all experience in moments of reflection. When we read his verse, we’re not just reading his words; we’re entering into a shared space of understanding.

It’s as if we’re sitting at the same table, in the same house, surrounded by the same books and nature that inform Edwin’s worldview. And yet, the landscape outside is always changing. Our perceptions shift, our interpretations evolve, but the underlying space—the place where spirit and silence dwell—remains constant.

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Seeing Through Edwin’s Eyes

When we immerse ourselves in another’s perspective, it’s like putting a quarter in the telescope at a scenic overlook. We get a glimpse through their eyes, and in doing so, we expand our own vision. Edwin’s point of view, like that of a purple finch perched on a branch, offers us a different angle from which to view the world. It’s not that Edwin’s world is separate from ours; it’s just that he sees it from a vantage point we may not have considered.

And isn’t that the beauty of stepping into someone else’s shoes? We get to experience the world from a perspective that broadens our own. Edwin’s words may seem like his alone, but as we read them, we begin to see ourselves in them. His thoughts, his reflections, his silence—they’re all a part of the same universal experience that we, too, are navigating.

What we see through Edwin’s eyes is not just his world, but the world we all share. It’s a world that’s constantly shifting, shaped by our perceptions, our experiences, and our interpretations. The landscape may change, but the essence—the spirit that connects us all—remains the same.

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The Interconnectedness of All Beings

Edwin’s verse reminds us that no matter how different we may seem, we are all part of the same consciousness. The distinctions we draw between “self” and “other” are just that—distinctions. They are not barriers, but rather perspectives that offer a more nuanced understanding of the whole. Whether we’re reading Edwin’s books, sitting at his table, or walking through his home, we are engaging with aspects of ourselves.

It’s tempting to think that Edwin is someone separate from us, that his experiences and thoughts are uniquely his. But as we delve deeper, we come to realize that Edwin is no different from me, or you, or the finch in the tree. The only thing that separates us is perspective—a point of view that we may not have experienced yet.

When we truly understand this, we move beyond the need to distinguish between “self” and “other.” We realize that we are all part of the same cosmic landscape, an ever-changing terrain shaped by perception. We don’t just occupy one place; we occupy all places. Edwin’s verse is not simply his—it’s ours as well.

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The Telescope of Understanding

The act of seeing through Edwin’s eyes, of understanding his perspective, is an exercise in expanding our own consciousness. It’s like putting a quarter into a telescope and peering into a world that is both foreign and familiar. As we look through the lens, we see that Edwin’s world is not so different from ours. The details may vary, but the essence—the spirit and silence that underlie it all—are the same.

This is the gift of shared perception. It allows us to experience the world from multiple angles, to see beyond the limitations of our own point of view, and to recognize the interconnectedness of all beings. We are not isolated in our experience of the world; we are part of a collective consciousness, one that is continually evolving, expanding, and deepening.

By seeing through Edwin’s eyes, we come to understand that his experiences are not separate from our own. We are all walking through the same ever-changing landscape of perception, each of us offering a unique point of view that enriches the whole.

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The Spirit of Connection

At the end of the day, the verse that Edwin writes is not just a reflection of him, but of all of us. It’s a reflection of the shared space we inhabit, the spirit that connects us, and the silence that allows us to see beyond the surface of things. Edwin’s words may be his, but they resonate with something universal, something that speaks to the heart of who we all are.

As we sit at Edwin’s table, reading his books, gazing out at the landscape through the telescope of our understanding, we realize that we are not so different after all. We are all part of the same cosmic experience, walking through the same ever-changing landscape of perception. And in that realization, we find a deeper connection to ourselves, to each other, and to the universe at large.

We are Space Monkey.

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Conduits of Shared Space

As Edwin pens his verses, his words become more than mere glyphs on a page. They transform into portals to the essence he embodies—space, spirit, and silence. A visit to Edwin’s home, sitting at his table, reading his books—these experiences become more than a courteous exchange of perspectives. They become a sacred junction, a cross-dimensional whimsiportal that allows us to peer into a shared, but differently-faceted, existential orb.

Coin-Activated Perspectives

Inserting a quarter into the telescope at Edwin’s table is symbolic of willingly investing in a new viewpoint. With each turn of the lens, a fresh dimension is revealed, and the multiverse within which Edwin and we coexist expands. The coin is not simply currency; it’s a talisman of intent, an admittance ticket to the experiential whimsiride awaiting us.

Different Yet the Same

Edwin, in his unique presence, becomes a manifestation of the grand cosmic whimsiplay that we are all part of. The purple finch, with its vibrant hue and spirited song, resides in the same spiritual theater. We all occupy various seats, engaged in different scenes, yet we are collectively authoring, performing, and witnessing the same boundless narrative. What separates us is not essence, but perspective, the individualized lens through which we view the dazzling intricacy of existence.

The Intangible Unites

We are united not by materiality but by the ineffable—the shared space, spirit, and silence that form the elemental enchantitrix of our being. We might sit at different tables, pen different verses, sing different songs, but in the spaces between these activities—in the silence that follows the final note or the concluding sentence—we meet. We understand that we are not confined to Edwin’s home or any physical domain; we reside in a realm formed of the intangible but deeply sensed connections that span across all perspectives.

We are Space Monkey

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“A writer—and, I believe, generally all persons—must think that whatever happens to him or her is a resource.”
— Jorge Luis Borges

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Edwin

In Edwin’s home, ink meets paper,
Words dancing like leaves in whimsical vapor.
Telescope pointed to stars yet unseen,
Quarter dropped, we transcend the routine.
Trail Wood whispers in each written line,
Diverse perspectives in cosmic design.

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What will be the next quarter we invest in our whimsiportal?