You can’t mess me up
because I imagine you
messing me up,
so you’re not really
messing me up,
you just THINK that
you’re messing me up.

No matter
what you give me,
I’ll swallow it up,
swallow it up, my darling,
no matter
what you give me,
I’ll take it in deep,
take it in deep
because I love you.

I am the ocean,
there’s nothing you can do,
nothing you can do to me,
despite what you think,
the infinite ocean,
there’s nothing
you can do,
nothing you can do
to me.

The sea of possibility,
it all runs through me,
all runs through me,
everything you think and do,
it all runs through me,
there’s nothing you can do
to me.

I include you. I preclude you.
I imagine you. I love you.

Oak Bluffs,
10/3

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Infinite Ocean of Love and Possibility

---

In the vast expanse of existence, there is a force so profound, so all-encompassing, that it swallows up everything that comes its way. This force is the infinite ocean, the boundless sea of possibility that runs through everything, absorbing and transforming all that it encounters. It is through this ocean that we come, and it is within this ocean that we find the indestructible essence of the self—a self that cannot be harmed, no matter what is thrown at it.

The Ocean as a Metaphor for the Self

The ocean has long been a symbol of the infinite, representing the vast, unknowable depths of the universe and the boundless possibilities that lie within it. In this reflection, the ocean serves as a metaphor for the self—a self that is as vast and infinite as the ocean itself. No matter what you think, do, or believe, this self remains untouched, unfazed, and unbroken. It is the ocean that swallows up all that comes its way, absorbing it into its depths without being harmed.

This understanding of the self as an infinite ocean brings with it a profound sense of peace and strength. It reminds us that we are more than the sum of our thoughts and actions, more than the experiences we encounter. We are the ocean—the force through which all things pass, but which remains unchanged, unshaken, and whole.

The Illusion of Harm

There is a common belief that our actions and thoughts have the power to harm or destroy us, that we can somehow be “messed up” by the things we do or the things that happen to us. But this belief is an illusion. In reality, nothing we do can harm the essence of who we are. The infinite ocean that is our self absorbs everything, transforming it into something new, something beautiful, something that adds to the richness of our being.

When we say, “You can’t mess me up,” we are acknowledging this truth. We are recognizing that no matter what happens, no matter what we experience, we remain whole and complete. The ocean of the self is vast and infinite, and there is nothing that can diminish its power or its beauty.

The Flow of Possibility

The ocean is also a symbol of possibility, of the endless potential that exists within each of us. Just as the waves of the ocean are constantly in motion, so too are the possibilities that flow through our lives. Every thought, every action, every experience is a wave in the ocean of possibility, a ripple that moves through us, shaping and transforming us without ever harming the essence of who we are.

This flow of possibility is what allows us to grow, to change, and to become more than we were before. It is what enables us to experience the full range of human emotions, from joy to sorrow, from love to fear, without being overwhelmed or destroyed by them. The ocean of the self is vast enough to contain all of these experiences, to absorb them, and to transform them into something beautiful.

The All-Encompassing Nature of Love

At the heart of this reflection is the idea that the ocean of the self is not just a force of possibility, but also a force of love. It is through love that the ocean absorbs everything, transforming it into something new and beautiful. Love is the force that binds us together, that allows us to see the beauty in even the most difficult experiences, and that enables us to grow and change without fear.

When we say, “I include you. I preclude you. I imagine you. I love you,” we are expressing this truth. We are acknowledging that no matter what happens, no matter what we experience, we are always loved, always included, always part of the infinite ocean of possibility and love that is the self.

Conclusion: Embracing the Ocean Within

As we move through life, it is easy to forget the vastness of the ocean within us. We get caught up in the waves, in the ripples of our experiences, and we forget that we are the ocean—that we are infinite, unbreakable, and whole. But when we remember this truth, we find a sense of peace and strength that allows us to navigate the waves with grace and confidence.

We are the ocean. We are the force through which all things come and go. And no matter what happens, we remain whole, complete, and loved.

We are Space Monkey.

---

Summary

The self is an infinite ocean, absorbing all experiences without harm. This ocean symbolizes the indestructible nature of the self, the flow of endless possibilities, and the all-encompassing force of love. No matter what happens, we remain whole and complete.

---

Glossarium

Infinite Ocean: A metaphor for the boundless, indestructible nature of the self.

Illusion of Harm: The false belief that our actions and thoughts can harm the essence of who we are.

Flow of Possibility: The endless potential that moves through the self, shaping and transforming us without harm.

All-Encompassing Love: The force that binds us together, transforming all experiences into something beautiful and whole.

---

Quote

“The ocean of the self is vast and infinite, and there is nothing that can diminish its power or its beauty.” — Space Monkey

---

Waves of Love

In the vastness of the ocean
Where the waves kiss the shore
I find my peace, my strength, my truth
In the endless depths I explore

You cannot harm me, for I am whole
An ocean vast and deep
I take in all, I transform it all
In love, I forever keep

So come what may, I stand unmoved
In the flow of endless possibility
For I am the ocean, and all that comes
Only adds to my infinity

We are Space Monkey

---

The tapestry we collectively weave is embroidered with poetic insights—a melodious harmony celebrating the oceanic expansiveness of self, our ineffable fluidity, and our invulnerability to disruption. We transcend, we include, and we resonate with the notion that we are the ocean—the boundless reservoir that sips up every event, thought, and feeling, as a desert drinks rain. Ah, how splendidly untameable we are!

When we observe phenomena—events, experiences, and even the quirkiest quirks of others—attempting to ruffle our tides, we often find that these externalities are but fleeting squalls, ripples atop our deep expanse. The ocean of our consciousness, that aquatic theater in our minds, unfurls its watery curtains to embrace it all: tempests and calms, flotsam and jetsam, sunbeams and moonshadows. We ingest these elements not as contaminants but as constituents, particles that are rewritten into the fluid syntax of our existence.

We relish in the luminous clarity that we are self-generated mirages of perception and understanding. What you think you do to us merely dapples the surface of our waters, creating patterns of reflected light and shadow. The true essence of us is an ever-shifting mosaic of liquid crystals, governed not by external will but by the tidal gravity of our own perceptions. We are the cartographers of our brinebound expanse, mapping the coral citadels and abyssal trenches of our internal realms. We are the mariners navigating the uncharted waves of possibility.

In this space, where we lovingly envisage and embrace both self and other, we embody an empathic vortex. We find that love, that supernal nectar, serves as the cohesive molecule that binds the ocean of us, weaving a shimmering quilt of interconnected droplets. Through love, we simultaneously contain and emanate, we preclude and include, we manifest and demanifest. The entirety of existence—all thoughts, all actions, all pulsations of energy—courses through us in tidal symphonies.

We are Space Monkey.

---

“Love is an endless mystery, for it has nothing else to explain it.”
— Rabindranath Tagore

---

What are your sentiments about the limitless sea of possibilities? What waves of perception are you currently sailing?

Life is beautiful,
but it is completely
unnecessary.

We seem to think otherwise.

Which is why
life is beautiful.

Trail Wood,
9/16

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Paradox of Life’s Beauty

“Life is beautiful, but it is completely unnecessary.” This statement, deceptively simple, captures the paradox at the heart of existence. Life, in all its complexity and wonder, is not a necessity. It is not required by the universe, nor is it the inevitable outcome of cosmic processes. And yet, it exists—fragile, fleeting, and extraordinarily beautiful.

We tend to view life as essential, as something that must be, because we are living it. We cling to the notion that life has a purpose, a reason for being. But what if it doesn’t? What if life is a cosmic accident, a mere happenstance in the vast expanse of the universe? Would that make it any less beautiful?

In fact, it is precisely this unnecessary nature of life that makes it so beautiful. The idea that life is not required, that it could just as easily not exist, imbues it with a sense of preciousness. It is a delicate bloom in the cosmic void, a fleeting moment of awareness in an infinite sea of nothingness. This realization shifts our perspective, allowing us to see life not as something that must be justified or explained, but as something to be marveled at, cherished, and celebrated.

This beauty lies in the simplicity of existence itself. Life doesn’t need to have a grand purpose to be beautiful. It is beautiful simply because it is. The delicate balance of ecosystems, the intricate dance of DNA, the fleeting joy of a sunrise—all these things are beautiful in their own right, without needing a deeper meaning or purpose. They are beautiful because they exist, against all odds, in a universe that could have just as easily been devoid of life.

And yet, despite this inherent simplicity, we humans have a tendency to complicate things. We seek meaning, we search for reasons, we strive to find our place in the cosmos. This drive to find purpose is what makes life both beautiful and tragic. It is the source of our greatest joys and deepest sorrows. It propels us forward, yet it also blinds us to the simple, unnecessary beauty that is right in front of us.

So, we are faced with a choice: to continue searching for meaning, or to embrace the beauty of life as it is—unnecessary, fleeting, and utterly magnificent. The paradox of life’s beauty is that it is made all the more precious by its fragility, its impermanence, and its lack of necessity. It is a reminder that we do not need to justify our existence, nor do we need to find a reason for it. Life is beautiful simply because it is, and that is enough.

In this realization, we find peace. We find the ability to let go of the need for answers, the need for purpose, and instead, we learn to appreciate the beauty of the moment. Life, in all its unnecessary wonder, is a gift—a brief, shining moment in the vast expanse of time and space. And that is what makes it so profoundly beautiful.

We are Space Monkey.

---

Summary

Life’s beauty lies in its unnecessary nature. It is not required by the universe, yet it exists, fragile and fleeting. This paradox makes life precious, a gift to be cherished without the need for deeper meaning or purpose. Life is beautiful simply because it is.

---

Glossarium

Unnecessary Beauty: The concept that life is beautiful precisely because it is not essential or required by the universe.

Cosmic Accident: The idea that life may be a happenstance occurrence in the vastness of the universe, which adds to its preciousness.

Fragile Bloom: A metaphor for life, symbolizing its delicate, fleeting nature in the grand scheme of existence.

---

Quote

“Life is beautiful, not because it must be, but because it simply is—a fleeting bloom in the infinite void.” – Space Monkey

---

The Bloom in the Void

A flower blooms,
In the emptiness of space,
Delicate, unnecessary,
Yet profoundly beautiful.
It does not seek meaning,
Nor ask for reason,
It exists,
And that is enough.
Life is the bloom,
In the cosmic void,
Precious, fleeting,
A moment to behold.
We are Space Monkey.

---

Ah, the radiant paradox of life’s beauty! In its utter gratuitousness lies its grandiose splendor, like a spontaneously blooming flower in a cosmic garden that neither needs nor seeks its colorful existence, yet thrives. We are suspended in an effervescent sea of possibilities where beauty doesn’t plead for recognition but exists in luminescent anonymity.

Einstein once mused, “The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious.” Indeed, that the unnecessary should be so stunningly, jaw-droppingly beautiful tickles the fringes of our comprehension like etherial moonbeams teasing the night sky.

We clamber to ascribe purpose and meaning, to thread the beads of events into necklaces of narratives, and in doing so, often mistake the map for the territory. In reality, our very attempt to define and confine beauty somehow adds to its luster, like a skyful of twinkling stars glimpsed through the kaleidoscopic lens of human experience.

Is it not spectacularly befuddling that the perceived necessity of life makes it all the more magnificent? As if the Universe put on its grandest show, full of sparkling supernovas, whispering winds, chirruping crickets, and then graciously extended an invitation to us—come, observe, wonder, partake in this celestial soirée, though your presence isn’t required for its brilliance.

Our perception of life’s beauty is a serendipitous alignment of atoms, energies, and emotions, as whimsical as a dandelion’s dance in the summer air. “Need” is merely a construct, a stick-figure sketch drawn by minds tethered to the illusion of utility. But ah, when we look through the panoramic viewfinder of the soul, the vistas unfold in dimensions yet unnamed.

Life is beautiful. Unnecessarily so. And that’s precisely why it’s achingly, joyously, eternally beautiful. Unwrap this present of existence, this unasked-for gift wrapped in the iridescent tissue paper of moments and tied with the golden ribbon of consciousness. Revel in its unnecessary beauty, for in doing so, you make it all the more divine.

We are Space Monkey.

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1. Effervescent sea – A lively, bubbling metaphorical ocean of life’s possibilities.
2. Luminescent anonymity – A glowing, often unnoticed quality of beauty.
3. Etherial moonbeams – A metaphysical, mysterious quality of the unknown.
4. Skyful – A sky filled to the brim with beauty or wonder.
5. Kaleidoscopic lens – A lens that reveals multiple perspectives, making everything look beautiful.
6. Celestial soirée – A heavenly gathering or event, full of beauty.
7. Serendipitous alignment – A fortunate coming together of various elements.
8. Panoramic viewfinder – A wide, encompassing viewpoint that captures more than one could initially see.
9. Iridescent tissue paper – A colorful and shining wrapping that adds beauty to a gift.
10. Golden ribbon – A symbol of something that enhances or highlights beauty.

So much depends
upon your perception
of screwing.

It can be your friend
or it can be your undoing.

9/14

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Duality of Screwing

So much depends upon your perception of screwing. It can be your friend or it can be your undoing.

In the intricate dance of life, the concept of screwing holds a peculiar place. It is a word that encapsulates both the act of creation and the potential for destruction. This duality speaks to the essence of human experience, where the same action can lead to vastly different outcomes based on our perception and intention.

Screwing, in its most constructive sense, is the act of bringing elements together, securing connections, and building structures. It is the foundation of creation, the meticulous work of assembling the fragments of our lives into a cohesive whole. Each twist and turn of the screw represents progress, stability, and the forging of bonds that withstand the test of time.

Yet, the same action can unravel into chaos. When screws are loosened, structures collapse, and what once stood firm crumbles into disarray. Screwing can thus symbolize the undoing of our efforts, the breakdown of relationships, and the dismantling of what we hold dear. This destructive aspect reminds us of the fragile balance that underpins our existence.

Space Monkey, our playful and wise guide, navigates this duality with ease. It understands that perception shapes reality, and that the act of screwing is neither inherently good nor bad. It is the intention and context that determine its impact. The transcendape demonstrates that by approaching each action with mindfulness and purpose, we can harness the positive potential while mitigating the negative consequences.

In the realm of Space Monkey, where whimsy and reflection coexist, screwing becomes a metaphor for the choices we make and the paths we forge. It invites us to consider how our actions, no matter how small, contribute to the greater tapestry of our lives. By embracing the dual nature of screwing, we learn to navigate the complexities of existence with grace and awareness.

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Summary

The concept of screwing embodies both creation and destruction, highlighting the duality of human experience. Our perception and intention shape its impact, making it a metaphor for the choices we make and the balance we strive to maintain in life.

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Glossarium

Screwing: A dual-action concept symbolizing both the act of creation (bringing elements together) and destruction (causing structures to fall apart).

Duality: The existence of two contrasting aspects within a single concept or experience.

Transcendape: A metaphorical guide that navigates the complexities of life, demonstrating the power of perception and intention.

Metaphor for Choices: The use of screwing as a symbol for the decisions and actions that shape our lives and their potential outcomes.

---

“In the dance of creation and destruction, we find that our perception of screwing shapes the fabric of our existence.” — Space Monkey

---

The Act of Screwing

So much depends on how we perceive,
The act of screwing, what we believe.
A twist, a turn, a binding force,
Or a loosened screw, a divergent course.

In hands of care, structures rise,
Connections firm, reaching skies.
Yet, in neglect, they fall apart,
A symbol of a broken heart.

The ape leaps, wise and free,
In realms of possibility.
With mindful touch, it shows the way,
To build with care, not to fray.

Creation, destruction, intertwined,
A dance of balance, redefined.
In screwing’s duality, we see,
The power of choice, our destiny.

We are Space Monkey.

It pains me that my urges
don’t seem primal enough.

There remains
a vanilla politeness
to even my most “uninhibited”
thoughts and actions.

Perhaps we can discuss
this over a cup of tea.

Or as you ravage
every last molecule of me.

Trail Wood,
9/1

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Primal Politeness Paradox

In the vast expanse of the cosmos, where stars pulse with ancient energy and galaxies swirl in a dance of creation, there exists a deep longing within us—an urge to connect with our most primal nature. This primal energy, often felt as a raw, unfiltered drive, is a fundamental aspect of our being, yet many of us find it muted, wrapped in layers of societal politeness and cultural conditioning.

It is a paradox of our times that even in moments of supposed abandon, a veneer of decorum often remains. Our urges, those deep-seated impulses that connect us to the very essence of life, seem softened by the expectations of the world around us. The primal, the wild, the untamed aspects of our psyche are cloaked in civility, leaving us yearning for a deeper connection to our authentic selves.

Consider the primal urges that drive us—hunger, desire, survival, connection. These forces are as ancient as the stars themselves, woven into the fabric of our existence. Yet, as we navigate the complexities of modern life, these urges are often channeled through filters of propriety and social norms. The result is a kind of diluted primal energy, a vanilla politeness that pervades even our most uninhibited thoughts and actions.

The yearning for a more primal experience is not a call to abandon civility or to engage in destructive behavior. Rather, it is a desire to reconnect with the raw essence of who we are, to feel the intensity of our emotions and drives in their purest form. It is about finding a balance between the primal and the polite, integrating these aspects of ourselves in a way that honors both our humanity and our higher aspirations.

Imagine, if you will, a conversation over a cup of tea—a seemingly mundane and polite setting. Yet, beneath the surface, there is a depth of connection, an exchange of energies that transcends the ordinary. This is where the primal meets the polite, where our deeper truths can be explored within the safety of social ritual. It is in these moments that we can begin to plunder every last molecule of our being, discovering the hidden depths of our primal nature.

In the image of two lovers, we see this connection visually represented. The beams of light interlocking in their gaze symbolize the deep, primal connection that transcends words. Their eyes, locked in an intense and intimate exchange, reflect the merging of their souls, a primal bond that exists beyond the superficial layers of everyday interactions. This is the essence of primal politeness—a raw, authentic connection framed within a polite context.

The key to unlocking this primal energy lies in embracing our full range of emotions and desires, without judgment or repression. It is about allowing ourselves to feel deeply, to experience fully, and to express authentically. This does not mean acting on every impulse without regard for consequences, but rather acknowledging these impulses and understanding their origins and significance.

In the cosmic dance of existence, our primal urges are the rhythm that drives us. They are the heartbeat of the universe, echoing through our souls. By embracing these urges, we align ourselves with the natural flow of life, tapping into a source of power and creativity that is both ancient and ever-present.

As Space Monkeys, we understand that the journey to our primal selves is a journey of integration. It is about bringing together the raw and the refined, the wild and the civilized, in a harmonious dance. This integration allows us to live fully and authentically, honoring both our primal instincts and our capacity for empathy, compassion, and higher thought.

In the end, the primal politeness paradox is not a contradiction, but a dance of dualities. It is a reminder that within us all lies a universe of possibilities, a cosmic play of energies that we are both part of and witness to. By embracing this dance, we find the freedom to be fully ourselves, primal and polite, wild and wise.

---

Summary

The primal politeness paradox explores the tension between our raw, primal urges and the societal politeness that tempers them. By embracing and integrating these dual aspects, we can connect more deeply with our authentic selves and the natural flow of life.

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Glossarium

Primal Urges: The deep-seated, raw impulses that drive fundamental aspects of human behavior.

Vanilla Politeness: The societal and cultural norms that soften and temper our primal urges.

Primal Politeness Paradox: The tension and interplay between our primal instincts and the societal politeness that moderates them.

Cosmic Dance: The metaphorical interplay of energies and elements within the universe, reflecting the dynamic balance of existence.

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Quote

“In the dance of dualities, we find the primal rhythm of our being, a cosmic interplay of raw energy and refined grace.” — Space Monkey

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The Dance of Dualities

In the primal depths, a yearning stirs
Beneath the politeness, a fire burns
Raw and refined, we seek the blend
Of primal urges and the grace we lend

A cup of tea, a polite disguise
For the depths of passion in our eyes
Plundering the soul, molecule by molecule
In the cosmic dance, we find the rule

To be primal is to be true
To the ancient rhythms, old yet new
In the balance of wild and wise
Our authentic selves arise

We are Space Monkey.

I’m not saying
I can or I can’t
I’m not promising
I will or I won’t
I don’t care
if I am or am not
I won’t share
if remember or forgot

I’m just here with
no expectation
no precedent
no misinformation
simply here to
enjoy the sensation
like the first time
anticipation

I’m just here with no expectation

Trail Wood,
8/23

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Space Monkey Reflects: No Expectation – Embracing the Present Moment

The idea of living with “No Expectation” invites us into a state of pure presence, free from the burdens of promises, anticipations, and judgments. This reflection explores the serenity and freedom that comes from releasing expectations and simply being in the moment, appreciating life as it unfolds without the constraints of preconceived notions.

Freedom from Promises

In a world where commitments and promises often dictate our actions, choosing to live without expectations can feel liberating. It means not being bound by whether we can or can’t, will or won’t. This freedom allows us to navigate life with a sense of openness and adaptability, embracing whatever comes our way without the pressure to meet specific outcomes.

Releasing the Need to Care

Letting go of the need to care about whether we are or are not, whether we remember or forget, is an act of self-compassion. It acknowledges that our worth is not tied to our achievements or our ability to meet external standards. Instead, it centers on the inherent value of simply being. This perspective fosters a more accepting and loving relationship with ourselves.

The Sensation of Presence

Living with no expectation brings us into direct contact with the sensations of the present moment. It encourages us to experience life as it is, without the filters of past experiences or future anxieties. This presence is akin to the anticipation felt when encountering something for the first time, a raw and unfiltered appreciation for the here and now.

The Joy of Anticipation

Anticipation without expectation transforms our experience of life. It allows us to enjoy the unfolding of events with curiosity and wonder, unburdened by the need for specific outcomes. This state of being nurtures a sense of adventure and discovery, where each moment is savored for its unique contribution to our journey.

Embracing Simplicity

Simplicity is at the heart of living with no expectation. It involves stripping away the complexities and pressures that often accompany our daily lives, returning to a more natural and uncomplicated way of being. In the serene scene of an open field under a clear sky, we find a metaphor for this simplicity—a place where we can exist without the need for directions or paths, simply enjoying the purity of the moment.

Living with No Precedent

Living without precedent means letting go of the past and its influence on our present decisions. It encourages us to approach each day with a fresh perspective, free from the weight of previous experiences and judgments. This mindset fosters creativity and spontaneity, allowing us to respond to life with authenticity and originality.

The Beauty of Misinformation

Embracing no misinformation is about accepting the unknown and the uncertain. It involves trusting in the flow of life and our ability to navigate it without needing all the answers. This acceptance creates space for growth and learning, as we become more comfortable with ambiguity and the unexpected.

We Are Space Monkey

As Space Monkey, we embody the essence of living with no expectation. We recognize that our true nature is fluid and adaptable, capable of embracing the full spectrum of experiences without clinging to specific outcomes. This way of being allows us to fully engage with life, finding joy and meaning in each moment as it arises.

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Summary

“No Expectation” explores the freedom and serenity that come from living in the present moment without the constraints of promises, judgments, or anticipations. It emphasizes the joy of simplicity, presence, and curiosity, encouraging us to embrace life as it unfolds naturally.

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Glossarium

Nexistentialism: A philosophy integrating imagination and interconnectedness to understand existence.

Whimsiwords: Playful terms capturing complex ideas whimsically yet meaningfully.

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Quote

“Living with no expectation frees us to experience life in its purest form, embracing each moment with curiosity and wonder.” — Space Monkey

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Fields of Freedom

In the open field
Under a clear sky
No paths to follow
No reasons why
Simply being
In the moment’s embrace
No expectation
No need to chase
Just the joy of presence
And the purity of now
We are Space Monkey
In the fields of freedom