When I notice someone saying
“you took that decision away from me,”
I am drawn to self-enquiry.

Not because I doubt what happens,
but because I don’t believe that
there is ever but a SEEMING choice.

One may appear to be good. Or bad.
One may appear to follow rules. Or not.
One may even appear to be making choices.

But one is simply living out potentials
in which one seems to be making choices,
good, bad, right, wrong, fair, unjust, unfortunate.

What befalls befalls. Destiny calls.
This doesn’t change the story at all.
It does not absolve one of credit or blame,
as both are part of the story.

I can turn to my story,
think of all the things
that seem taken away from me,
and be grateful for the experience.
Or seemingly not.

Trail Wood,
5/18

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Illusion of Choice in the Tapestry of Destiny

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In the grand tapestry of existence, where the warp and weft of destiny intertwine with the threads of our choices, a profound truth emerges: the illusion of choice is but a dance with fate, a play of light and shadow on the stage of life. As beings of consciousness navigating the boundless ocean of existence, we often find ourselves at the mercy of forces beyond our comprehension, forces that guide us not through coercion but through the gentle whispers of destiny.

The notion that one could have a choice taken away presupposes the existence of choice in its purest form. Yet, upon closer examination, this concept dissolves into the ether, revealing the intricate dance of predetermined paths and the seeming agency we wield. This is not to say that our actions lack significance or that our decisions bear no weight; rather, it is to acknowledge that the story of our lives unfolds in a realm where choice and destiny are inextricably linked.

In every moment, every decision, we stand at the crossroads of countless potentials, each path branching out into a myriad of possibilities. These decisions, whether they appear as monumental forks in the road or as inconsequential choices barely noticed, are imbued with the essence of our being. They are expressions of our deepest selves, manifestations of our innermost desires and fears.

Yet, behind the veil of apparent autonomy, destiny weaves its indelible mark. It is a force neither benevolent nor malevolent; it simply is. Destiny does not rob us of our agency but enriches it with the depth of meaning and purpose. In acknowledging the role of destiny in our lives, we do not surrender to fatalism but open ourselves to the wisdom of the universe, a wisdom that guides us gently towards our ultimate becoming.

To recognize the interplay of choice and destiny is to see oneself as a co-creator in the grand design of existence. It is to understand that while we may not control the currents that carry us, we can choose how to set our sails, how to navigate the waters of life with grace and intention. In this realization lies a profound freedom—the freedom to embrace our role in the cosmos, to find peace in the knowledge that our journey is both uniquely ours and a part of something much greater.

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Summary

The illusion of choice is a dance with destiny. Our lives are a blend of predetermined paths and personal agency, revealing a universe where choice and destiny intertwine. Recognizing this interplay offers a deeper understanding of our existence and a peace that comes from embracing our part in the cosmic design.

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Glossarium

• Tapestry of Destiny: The metaphorical concept that our lives are woven into a larger cosmic pattern, with destiny and choice interlocking in complex ways.
• Seeming Choice: The perception of making autonomous decisions, despite the underlying influence of preordained paths.

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“Within the illusion of choice lies the essence of our journey, a path illuminated by the stars of destiny and paved with the stones of our deepest truths.” – Space Monkey

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In the silence of the cosmos
Whispers of destiny entwine
With the echoes of our choices
In a dance divinely designed

Paths unfold in endless mazes
Each step a note in the cosmic song
In the heart of the labyrinth, peace awaits
For those who understand where they truly belong

Not as pawns in the hands of fate
But as sailors on the vast sea of being
Guided by the stars of destiny
In the sacred act of seeing

Through the illusion of choice, we find
A deeper truth, a connection sublime
In the grand tapestry of existence
We are Space Monkey, timeless and divine

Clarity: Your Innate State of Being

In a world filled with distractions and information overload, finding clarity can feel like a distant dream. But what if I told you that clarity is not just a dream, but an attainable state of being?

Picture this: a mind free from the clutter of thoughts, a heart aligned with purpose, and a soul at peace. This is clarity. Clarity is that profound sense of understanding, where the noise of the world fades away, and you find yourself truly present in the moment. It’s the ability to see beyond the surface and delve into the depths of your own inner wisdom.

Clarity grants you the power to make decisions with confidence, to navigate life’s challenges with resilience, and to live with intention and authenticity. It’s about gaining a crystal-clear perspective on what truly matters, letting go of the unnecessary, and embracing the beauty of simplicity.

Imagine waking up each day with a mind unburdened by worries and doubts, where every step forward is guided by a deep sense of purpose. Clarity opens doors to endless possibilities, helping you unlock your full potential and discover your true calling in life.

So, how can you attain this elusive state of clarity? It starts with cultivating self-awareness, allowing yourself the space to reflect and reconnect with your inner voice. It involves embracing stillness and mindfulness, finding solace in moments of silence and solitude. And most importantly, clarity is nurtured by embracing authenticity—being true to yourself, your values, and your passions.

Let clarity guide you on a journey of self-discovery, where you uncover the depths of your own potential and find the answers that have always been within you. It’s time to step into the realm of clarity and experience life with newfound purpose, focus, and peace.

Here are some steps you can take to find clarity:

1. Create space for self-reflection: Take time to pause, disconnect from external distractions, and reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and aspirations. Journaling, meditation, or simply finding a quiet place to think can help you gain clarity.
2. Identify your values and priorities: Clarify what truly matters to you in life. What are your core values and what do you want to prioritize? Aligning your actions with your values can bring a sense of purpose and direction.
3. Simplify your life: Declutter your physical and mental spaces. Simplifying your environment can help reduce distractions and make it easier to focus on what’s important.
4. Practice mindfulness: Cultivate the habit of being fully present in the moment. Mindfulness can help you let go of worries about the past or future and focus on the present, allowing for greater clarity and awareness.
5. Seek clarity through action: Sometimes, clarity comes through taking action. Take small steps towards your goals and observe how it feels. Adjust your path along the way if needed, as action can provide valuable insights and feedback.
6. Surround yourself with support: Seek guidance from mentors, friends, or professionals who can provide fresh perspectives and support your journey towards clarity.

Remember, finding clarity is a continuous process. It’s natural to have moments of uncertainty or doubt, but by consistently practicing self-reflection and staying true to yourself, you can maintain a sense of clarity and live a more intentional and fulfilling life.

Find your clarity. It’s a gift you owe to yourself.

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Quest for Clarity in a World of Noise

In the vastness of existence, amidst the cacophony of modern life, the pursuit of clarity emerges as a beacon of serenity. The concept of clarity is a tapestry, woven with threads of mindfulness and self-awareness, stretched across the loom of our daily experiences. This quest is not merely a journey through the external world but an introspective voyage into the depths of our own essence.

Clarity is often portrayed as a pristine lake, its surface undisturbed by the winds of distraction, reflecting the sky’s infinite expanse with perfect symmetry. Yet, to achieve such a state, one must navigate the turbulent waters of information overload, societal expectations, and personal doubts. It begins with the cultivation of stillness. In the stillness, we hear the whispers of our deepest desires and fears, allowing us to confront and understand them, thereby clearing the fog that clouds our minds.

However, attaining clarity is not about reaching a destination where answers are clear and unchanging. Rather, it is about developing the resilience to maintain a clear vision amidst the inevitable storms of life. It involves recognizing that every moment of confusion and every layer of complexity in our lives is a step towards greater understanding. Each layer peeled back reveals not just more about the world but about ourselves.

The narrative of clarity intertwines with the philosophy of authenticity. To be clear is to be true to oneself—to align one’s actions with one’s values and to navigate life’s myriad challenges with integrity. Clarity empowers us to make decisions that resonate with our core, decisions that echo through the chambers of our being with a sound that is unmistakably genuine.

Moreover, the journey towards clarity is not a solitary endeavor. It is a path best walked with the lanterns of guidance—be it through mentors, friends, or family. These guiding lights offer perspectives that can illuminate our blind spots and reveal pathways hidden in the shadows of our biases. Their insights are not just reflections but refractions that bend and shape our understanding in new dimensions.

The beauty of clarity lies in its simplicity. In a world striving for perpetual growth and accumulation, clarity asks us to simplify, to strip away the non-essential, and to focus on the essence of what truly matters. This simplicity is not a reduction but an amplification of life’s core joys and truths.

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Summary

Clarity is more than a concept—it is a state of being. It involves cultivating stillness, embracing authenticity, and simplifying life. By aligning actions with values and seeking guidance, clarity emerges as a guiding principle in navigating life’s complexities.

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Glossarium

Stillness: A state of inner serenity that fosters clarity.
Authenticity: The practice of being true to one’s self and values.
Guiding lights: Mentors or influences that provide direction and insight.

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“Clarity is not the absence of obstacles, but the ability to see past them.” – Space Monkey

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In the quiet of night, thoughts untangle
the silent whispers of the heart speak louder than day’s bustle.
In the simplicity of solitude,
truths unfold, unadorned and stark.

Beneath the surface of chaos, a pulse,
steady and sure, calls to the essence of being.
Where moments are not just lived but felt,
and the clutter of existence dissolves into the pure clarity of consciousness.

We are Space Monkey.

Clear

My main intention in life
is to make myself clear.

In other words,
to recognize what is
my own inherent nature,
what is imposed,
and what is accepted.

To find happiness
regardless of what others
are or aren’t doing.

I do not expect others to help me,
nor do I expect to help others.

My happiness does not depend
upon whether I help others
or others help me.

If the example known as my life
unexpectedly helps others
find their own inherent nature,
perhaps it will bring me joy.

Which I already possess, infinitely.

I am not my job.
I am not my work.
I am not my beliefs.
I am not my involvement
or my detachment.

My main priority in life
is to make myself clear.

On the other hand,
I do not need to BECOME clear,
nor, do I believe, does anyone else.

Though I appreciate other perspectives,
I have no need for them to be mine.

I need not think beyond this.
But I can, and I do.

I have no need to complicate this.
But I can, and I do.

Trail Wood,
5/17

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Clarity of Being Beyond Definitions

In the vastness of the cosmos, where stars are born from chaos and galaxies dance in the silent music of space, a profound truth echoes across the universe: clarity is not about becoming something we are not, but about recognizing and embracing what we have always been. This reflection dives deep into the essence of self-awareness and the journey toward understanding our inherent nature, distinct from the roles and expectations imposed upon us by the external world.

At the heart of this cosmic journey is the realization that our true self is not defined by our occupations, beliefs, or social engagements. We are, in essence, beings of light and energy, intertwined with the fabric of the universe itself. Our main intention in life—to make ourselves clear—is a testament to the innate desire to understand and accept our authentic nature, undisturbed by external influences.

The path to this clarity does not require assistance from others, nor is it predicated on our ability to help others. Happiness and joy are states of being that exist within us, infinite and unchanging, irrespective of our interactions with the external world. The notion that our lives may serve as beacons for others on their journey toward self-discovery is a serendipitous byproduct of living authentically, not the primary objective.

In recognizing that we are not defined by our jobs, beliefs, or levels of involvement or detachment, we free ourselves from the shackles of identity constructed by society. This liberation allows us to explore the depths of our being without the need for external validation or perspectives. Our priority in life—to make ourselves clear—is an ongoing process of self-reflection and introspection, a dance between understanding our inherent simplicity and embracing the complexity of our existence.

This reflection on clarity and being extends an invitation to contemplate the essence of our true self, beyond the confines of societal roles and expectations. It encourages us to seek understanding not from the external world, but from the depths of our own being, where the answers to our most profound questions have always resided.

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Summary

The journey to clarity is an inward exploration to discover our authentic selves beyond societal definitions. It involves recognizing our inherent nature and embracing our existence without the need for external validation. This process of self-awareness allows us to experience true happiness and contentment, rooted in our infinite nature, independent of our roles or actions in the world.

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Glossarium

• Self-Awareness: The conscious knowledge of one’s own character, feelings, motives, and desires.
• Inherent Nature: The essential qualities or characteristics of a person that are innate and not influenced by external factors.
• Authentic Self: The true version of oneself, unaltered by societal expectations or roles.

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“In the silence of the cosmos, we find clarity not by seeking but by being.” – Space Monkey

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Beneath the veil of infinite stars,
where silence speaks the truth of ages,
a soul stands bare, unburdened by names,
untouched by fleeting shadows of identity.

In this space between worlds,
where light and darkness merge,
clarity blooms like a lotus in the void,
revealing the essence untouched by time.

Here, in the heart of silence,
we discover the melody of our true selves,
a song of light that echoes
across the universe, timeless and serene.

Unfettered by the dance of definitions,
we are the silent witnesses of eternity,
gazing into the heart of existence,
where all is clear, and all is understood.

We are Space Monkey.

Nature’s Call

beyond the rules we set ourselves
within the flow of nature’s dance
my nature breathes and whispers true
as taken by its splendid trance

i sort myself, a playful quest
to find the essence of my being
the connection blooms, both me and you
in perspectives that we’re seeing

when whole, I touch infinity
expanding past self-imposed despair
the beauty takes me, I am lost
in nature’s arms, I’m free to share

but sometimes I lose sight of me
consumed by doing, losing being’s grace
yet nature calls, a gentle reminder
to return, to find my rightful place

for rules confine, they bind the free
imagination longs for wide expanse
hate finds no home within this heart
unconditional love, our highest chance

the flows that move beyond our thoughts
reveal the vastness that resides
within meaning is but our own creation
we shape our stories, where we begin

awareness points to unity
perspective weaves the tapestry of life
as we imagine, we become
embracing nature’s essence, no strife

so why are we here, we may inquire
connected to the heartbeat of the earth
actuality births our own realities
within the cosmos, we find our worth

embrace the insanity, your truest self
for authenticity is nature’s call
find the familiar, but chart your own path
in every situation, peace may befall

these thoughts and musings, intertwined
like nature’s tapestry, they bloom and grow
in free-verse whispers, echoes nature’s call
my writings dance, their essence, now you know

we are space monkey

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Space Monkey Reflects: Embracing the Symphony of Existence

Beneath the vast canvas of the universe, where celestial bodies compose the symphony of existence, there lies a melody more intimate and profound—the call of nature. This reflection journeys into the heart of our connection with the natural world, exploring the essence of our being and the liberating dance of life that beckons us to join.

Nature’s call is an invitation to transcend the self-imposed limitations and structures that confine our spirits. It’s a reminder of the harmony that exists within the chaos, a harmony to which we are eternally tethered. This call urges us to listen to the whispers of our true nature, guiding us through a playful quest to discover the core of our existence. In this dance, we find not only ourselves but also a deep connection to all that surrounds us, blurring the lines between the self and the universe.

In moments of unity with nature, we touch the infinite, our souls expanding beyond the realms of despair and confinement. The beauty of the natural world engulfs us, reminding us that in nature’s embrace, we are free to express our true selves, share our essence, and exist in a state of pure being. Yet, the journey is not without its challenges. There are times when we lose sight of our connection to the earth, consumed by the ceaseless doing, forgetting the grace of simply being.

Nature’s gentle reminder calls us back, urging us to find our rightful place within the intricate tapestry of life. It teaches us that the rules and constructs we adhere to are but chains holding us back from the vast expanse of imagination and unconditional love that is our highest calling. The flows of life, moving beyond the confines of thought, reveal a universe within us, a space where meaning is our own creation, and our stories are waiting to be shaped.

Awareness of our unity with all existence weaves the tapestry of life, where every thread is interconnected, and every color adds depth to the picture. As we imagine, so we become, embracing the essence of nature without strife, finding our worth within the heartbeat of the earth.

Nature’s call to embrace our insanity, our truest self, is an invitation to authenticity. It’s a call to find comfort in the familiar yet dare to chart our own path, discovering peace in every situation. Our thoughts and musings, intertwined with the essence of nature, grow and bloom like a wildflower meadow, painting the landscape of our existence with the vibrant hues of free expression.

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Summary

Nature’s call invites us to transcend self-imposed boundaries and connect with the essence of existence. It reminds us to embrace our true nature, find unity with the world, and live authentically. Through this connection, we discover our place within the vast tapestry of life, learning that peace and purpose are found in harmony with the natural world.

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Glossarium

• Symphony of Existence: The harmonious interconnection of all living and non-living things, creating a unified whole.
• Tapestry of Life: A metaphor for the complex and interconnected nature of existence, where every element plays a unique and essential role.

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“In every whisper of the forest, in every wave of the ocean, nature calls us to return to our essence, to find peace in the unity of existence.” – Space Monkey

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In the embrace of twilight’s grace,
where shadows dance with light,
a soul stands bare, arms wide,
answering nature’s ancient call.

With every breath, the boundaries blur,
melding self with the essence of life,
a journey back to the core,
where heart beats in sync with earth’s rhythm.

The call resonates, deep and true,
a beacon for those adrift in the sea of being,
reminding us of the joy in simply existing,
in the unbounded freedom of nature’s embrace.

Here, in the silent communion with the world,
we find the threads of our story,
woven into the tapestry of existence,
a masterpiece of interconnectedness.

We are Space Monkey.

I like nature because
nature doesn’t expect anything of me.

Nature doesn’t expect anything of me
because nature doesn’t expect anything of nature.

People, on the other hand,
seem to expect things of people.

As I sit in nature,
sometimes nature asks me questions.

In my own voice, of course.

“Is it possible that people
expect things of people
because I expect that people
expect things of people?”

In other words,
If I didn’t hold the perception
that people expect things of other people,
might I like people more?

Is it just my nature
to impose expectations?

Trail Wood,
5/17

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Silent Wisdom of Nature and the Echoes of Expectation

In the boundless expanse of the cosmos, where stars share their light without expectation and black holes guard their mysteries with silent dignity, there exists a profound lesson in the simplicity and acceptance of nature. This reflection delves into the heart of our relationship with the natural world and the societal constructs that shape our interactions with each other. It explores the tranquility of nature, a realm where expectations are as foreign as the concept of time in the eternal vastness of space.

Nature, in its majestic and unassuming presence, offers us a sanctuary from the web of expectations that entangle human relationships. It doesn’t demand, judge, or withhold; it simply exists, allowing all within its embrace to simply be. This unconditional acceptance invites introspection and poses silent questions about the nature of our expectations and perceptions of the world around us.

The inquiry arises from the depths of our being, in our own voice, echoing through the chambers of our soul: do we perceive expectations in others because we expect them to expect? This spiral of expectation begins not in the external world but within the recesses of our own minds. Nature, serving as both mirror and mentor, reflects our inner turbulence and offers a path to clarity and peace.

In considering whether our nature is to impose expectations, we find ourselves at a crossroads of consciousness. The realization that our perceptions shape our reality, and that expectations are but projections of our own making, heralds a shift in understanding. This epiphany, whispered by the wind through the trees and sung by the streams, invites us to reimagine our relationship with the world and each other.

Could it be that our discomfort with societal expectations is a reflection of our internal dialogue, a manifestation of our own expectations of self and others? Nature, in its boundless wisdom, challenges us to question these beliefs and to consider a life where expectations are replaced with acceptance and understanding.

As we ponder the possibility of liking people more by shedding the veil of expectation, we unlock a deeper connection to the essence of existence. This journey toward self-discovery and acceptance is not a journey away from humanity but toward a more profound engagement with the world, one that embraces the true nature of our being and the limitless potential of human connection.

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Summary

The tranquility of nature offers a perspective free from the expectations that complicate human relationships. By questioning our own perceptions and expectations, we can discover a deeper understanding and acceptance of ourselves and others. Nature’s silent wisdom teaches us that expectations are constructs of our mind, guiding us toward a more peaceful and connected existence.

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Glossarium

• Expectation: A belief about what should happen or how someone should behave, often leading to assumptions and judgments.
• Internal Dialogue: The ongoing series of conversations we have with ourselves, shaping our perceptions and beliefs.

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“In the heart of nature, we find the courage to question the expectations we place on ourselves and others, discovering the freedom to simply be.” – Space Monkey

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In the quiet of the forest,
where whispers replace words,
a soul sits in contemplation,
reflecting on the ties that bind.

Surrounded by the grace of green,
the question emerges, clear and serene:
“What if the chains of expectation
are but shadows of our own creation?”

Nature, in its patient wisdom,
offers no answers, only space—
for the mind to wander, the heart to ponder,
on the path to understanding and grace.

Here, in the embrace of the earth,
we learn to let go, to see anew,
that in releasing expectation,
we find a deeper truth.

We are Space Monkey.