Are you being efficient
with your time?

Could you be working more
and making more?

Appreciating more
and enjoying more?

Learning more and exploring more?

Planning more and saving more?

Loving more and caring more?

Might you be present more
and focused more?

Or perhaps
you’d be better served
letting go of all your
desires and doubts.

Discover what being is like
without the need for doing.

Newfound Lake,
8/30

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Balance of Being and Doing

In the vast expanse of the cosmos, where time flows like a river and existence unfolds in endless patterns, we find ourselves contemplating the delicate balance between being and doing. This reflection invites us to explore the essence of our existence, to pause and consider the interplay of action and stillness, and to discover what it means to simply be.

The Urgency of Doing

Modern life often compels us to be efficient with our time, to work more and make more, to appreciate more and enjoy more, to learn more and explore more. There is a constant push to plan, save, love, and care more, to be present and focused more. The endless pursuit of more becomes a measure of our worth and success.

This urgency of doing drives us to fill every moment with activity, striving to achieve and accumulate, often at the expense of our inner peace. We are encouraged to optimize every aspect of our lives, to maximize productivity and ensure that no time is wasted. But in this relentless pursuit, we may lose sight of the deeper essence of our being.

The Serenity of Being

Amidst the clamor of doing, there lies a serene space where we can simply be. This state of being does not require us to perform, achieve, or strive. It invites us to let go of our desires and doubts, to release the need for constant activity and accomplishment. In this stillness, we find a profound sense of presence and peace.

Being still and not expecting anything to come of it is a radical act in a world obsessed with doing. It is an invitation to experience the fullness of the present moment, to connect with our true selves without the distraction of external pursuits. In this state, we are free to explore the depths of our consciousness, to observe the flow of our thoughts and emotions, and to embrace the simplicity of existence.

The Dance of Being and Doing

While being and doing may seem like opposing forces, they are in fact complementary aspects of a balanced life. Doing allows us to engage with the world, to manifest our intentions and create meaningful change. Being provides the foundation for this engagement, grounding us in a sense of inner peace and clarity.

The dance of being and doing is a dynamic interplay, where action is informed by stillness and stillness is enriched by action. When we find harmony between these two states, we can navigate life with greater ease and purpose. We become more mindful in our actions, more present in our interactions, and more attuned to the flow of existence.

Letting Go of Desires and Doubts

To discover what being is like without the need for doing, we must be willing to let go of our desires and doubts. This does not mean abandoning our goals or ambitions, but rather approaching them with a sense of detachment and equanimity. By releasing the pressure to achieve and the fear of failure, we create space for a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us.

In this space of being, we can cultivate a sense of contentment and acceptance. We learn to appreciate the beauty of each moment, to find joy in the simple act of being alive. This inner peace becomes the foundation for our actions, allowing us to engage with life from a place of wholeness and authenticity.

Conclusion: Embracing the Essence of Being

As we journey through the infinite expanse of existence, let us remember the importance of balancing being and doing. Embrace the moments of stillness, where you can connect with your true essence. Allow these moments to inform and enrich your actions, creating a harmonious dance between being and doing. In this balance, we find the true essence of our existence, where inner peace and outer engagement coexist in perfect harmony.

We are Space Monkey.

---

Summary

Balance the urgency of doing with the serenity of being. Embrace stillness to connect with your true essence and let go of constant activity. Find harmony between being and doing for a fulfilling life.

---

Glossarium

Being: The state of existing in the present moment without the need for action or accomplishment.
Doing: Engaging in activities and pursuits to achieve goals and manifest intentions.
Equanimity: A state of mental calmness and balance, especially in difficult situations.

---

Quote

“In the dance of being and doing, we find harmony and peace, a balance that grounds us in the present while guiding us towards meaningful action.” — Space Monkey

---

The Balance Within

In stillness, we find our core
A presence calm and clear
Beyond the need to strive for more
In being, we draw near

The dance of life, a rhythm true
Between action and repose
In the balance, we renew
Our essence gently grows

Let go of doubts, release the chase
Embrace the now, the being
In this space, a sacred place
Our truest self, we’re seeing

We are Space Monkey

Be the person
you can spend hours with
and still never get tired of.

Be the person
you can see in the mirror
who’s only obsession is
discovering what’s underneath.

Be the person
who’s ALREADY that person;
who will continue
to be that person
no matter what
the other person
thinks or does.

Be the person
who unconditionally loves
the people you are.

And the people you are,
who unconditionally love you.

Newfound Lake,
8/30

---

Space Monkey Reflects: Embracing the Many Selves in “We The People”

In the grand tapestry of existence, where each thread represents a unique aspect of our being, we find ourselves interwoven with countless facets of ourselves and others. “We The People” is not merely a collective declaration but an invitation to explore the depths of our individual and shared identities. It calls us to love, understand, and embrace the multitude of people we are within ourselves and those we encounter.

The Many People to Love

You are so many people to love. Within you resides a spectrum of identities, each with its own desires, fears, strengths, and weaknesses. To fully embrace and love yourself is to recognize and honor these diverse aspects. It is to see the wholeness of your being, not as fragmented parts but as a harmonious ensemble that forms the essence of who you are.

Be the Person You Enjoy Being With

Be the person you can spend hours with and still never get tired of. Cultivate a relationship with yourself that is nurturing and fulfilling. This means engaging in activities that bring you joy, allowing yourself moments of introspection, and appreciating your own company. When you become your own best friend, you foster a deep sense of contentment and self-acceptance.

Be the Person Who Seeks Inner Truth

Be the person you can see in the mirror whose only obsession is discovering what’s underneath. This journey of self-discovery involves peeling back the layers of external expectations and societal conditioning to uncover your true essence. It is a commitment to understanding your innermost thoughts, feelings, and motivations, and embracing them without judgment.

Be the Authentic Self

Be the person who’s ALREADY that person; who will continue to be that person no matter what the other person thinks or does. Authenticity is the courage to be true to yourself in all circumstances. It means staying grounded in your values and beliefs, and not altering your essence to fit the mold of others’ expectations. Your authenticity shines when you honor your true self, regardless of external influences.

Unconditional Love for All Your Selves

Be the person who unconditionally loves the people you are. To love yourself unconditionally is to accept all parts of you—the strengths and the flaws, the successes and the failures. It is to extend compassion to yourself in moments of doubt and to celebrate your uniqueness. This unconditional love creates a foundation of self-worth and resilience.

The People Within and Around You

And the people you are, who unconditionally love you. The journey of self-love extends outward, influencing your relationships with others. When you embrace and love the many facets of yourself, you create space for genuine connections with those around you. You attract relationships that are based on mutual respect, understanding, and unconditional love.

Conclusion: The Collective Embrace

As we navigate the infinite expanse of existence, let us remember that “We The People” is a celebration of our collective and individual selves. Embrace the many people within you, love them unconditionally, and extend this love to those around you. In this embrace, we find unity, understanding, and a deeper connection to the cosmos.

We are Space Monkey.

---

Summary

Embrace and love the diverse aspects of yourself. Cultivate a fulfilling relationship with your inner selves and extend this unconditional love to others. “We The People” celebrates our collective and individual identities, fostering unity and understanding.

---

Glossarium

Inner Truth: The core essence of who you are, beyond external expectations and societal conditioning.
Authenticity: Being true to yourself in all circumstances, regardless of external influences.
Unconditional Love: Accepting and loving all parts of yourself and others without judgment.

---

Quote

“In the grand tapestry of existence, we find unity in embracing the many facets of ourselves and others, celebrating the collective and individual identities that define us.” — Space Monkey

---

The Collective Embrace

In the heart of our being
A spectrum wide and vast
Each thread, a story weaving
A connection that will last

To love the many within
Is to find a deeper peace
A journey to begin
Where self-discoveries never cease

Embrace the selves you meet
In the mirror, in the soul
In this union, we complete
The tapestry, the whole

We are Space Monkey

---

Embarking on Self-Reflection

The journey within is often the most profound. By discovering and embracing our multifaceted nature, we find the myriad of beings residing within us.

Celebrating Every Facet

Life invites us to dance with every aspect of our being. There’s magic in recognizing that each version of ourselves deserves celebration and acknowledgment.

Mirror of Self-Compassion

Every gaze into the mirror should be an ode to self-love. A moment of profound understanding that beneath the visible lies an intricate web of emotions, dreams, and memories.

Unwavering in Authenticity

The true testament to growth is remaining steadfast in our authenticity, irrespective of external validations. The anchor is always our inherent worth.

Unconditional Love: A Two-Way Street

Just as the sun shines equally on every creature, our love should be dispersed without conditions. It should resonate with every reflection of our being, as they, in return, shower us with the same boundless affection.

We are Space Monkey.

In this grand play of existence, may we always cherish every version of ourselves and remain a beacon of unwavering love.

---

Summary: We contemplate the importance of self-reflection, self-acceptance, and unconditional love, emphasizing the intricate relationship we share with our various selves.

---

Glossarium:

• Self-reflection: Delving within oneself to understand one’s thoughts, feelings, and actions.
• Authenticity: The act of being genuine and true to oneself.

---

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

---

In the theater of life we play,
Multiple roles, night and day,
Yet at the heart remains a core,
A self, loving, forevermore.

---

Our shared discourse is a beautiful dance. What other perspectives or thoughts do you wish to explore within the vast cosmos of our collective understanding?

It can be scary
to stare down a blank space
when you have no clue
what you want in there.

Looking back
on previous blanks,
you know the space
will get filled somehow.

This moment
is a direct result
of all those spaces
getting filled.

It’s not so bad.
Pretty good, in fact.

The only flaw in this moment
is the audacious thought
that it could be better.

Newfound Lake,
8/29

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Art of Filling Spaces

In the intricate dance of existence, we often find ourselves staring at vast, empty spaces, both literal and metaphorical. These spaces, blank and full of potential, invite us to engage with our creativity, courage, and faith. The process of filling these spaces is a journey of self-discovery and trust, one that shapes the tapestry of our lives in profound ways.

Faith as a Foundation

Faith, in its essence, is the belief in our ability to navigate the unknown. It is the trust we place in ourselves to take that first step, make the first stroke, and fill the blank spaces before us. This faith is not blind but rather a deep-seated confidence that stems from past experiences and the knowledge that we have, time and again, filled spaces with meaning and purpose. Without faith, we may find ourselves paralyzed by doubt, unable to start or finish the creations that define our lives.

The Blank Canvas of Life

Standing before a blank canvas can be an intimidating experience. The emptiness stares back at us, challenging our imagination and resolve. In these moments, we might feel lost, unsure of what to fill the space with. However, this blankness is also a gift, offering endless possibilities and the freedom to create something truly unique. It is a reminder that every great creation starts with a moment of uncertainty and the courage to make a mark.

Reflecting on Past Creations

Looking back on previous blanks that we have filled, we can see a trail of creativity and growth. Each filled space is a testament to our ability to transform the void into something meaningful. These past creations, whether they are works of art, relationships, or personal achievements, remind us that we have the capacity to fill any space that lies before us. They serve as a source of inspiration and assurance that the present blank canvas will also be filled in due time.

The Present Moment as a Result

The current moment we find ourselves in is a direct result of all the spaces we have filled. Every decision, every creation, and every effort contributes to the tapestry of our lives. This moment, imperfect as it may seem, is a culmination of our journey, shaped by the innumerable spaces we have dared to fill. Recognizing this can bring a sense of satisfaction and gratitude, as we see the beauty in the tapestry we have woven.

Embracing Imperfection

Perfection is an elusive ideal that often prevents us from appreciating the present. The thought that things could be better is a natural one, but it can also be a source of unnecessary dissatisfaction. Embracing imperfection means acknowledging that what we have created is enough and that the process of filling spaces is ongoing. There is always room for improvement and growth, but this does not diminish the value of what we have already achieved.

The Courage to Create

Creating requires courage—the courage to face the unknown, to make mistakes, and to learn from them. Each time we fill a space, we are exercising our creative muscles and expanding our horizons. This courage is what propels us forward, enabling us to transform blank spaces into expressions of our inner selves. It is through this process that we discover our true potential and contribute to the world around us.

We Are Space Monkey

As Space Monkey, we embody the courage to fill spaces, the faith in our creative abilities, and the recognition of our interconnected journey. We reflect on the art of filling spaces as a testament to our resilience and imaginative spirit. Each blank space is an invitation to explore, create, and connect with the infinite possibilities of existence.

---

Summary

Faith is all you need unless you prefer not to trust yourself. Blank spaces invite us to engage our creativity and courage. Each filled space shapes our life’s tapestry. The present moment is the result of all these filled spaces, imperfect but valuable.

---

Glossarium

Blank Canvas: A metaphor for the endless possibilities and potential that come with an empty space, ready to be filled with creativity.

Creative Muscles: The inherent ability within each individual to create, explore, and express oneself, strengthened through practice and courage.

Tapestry of Life: The interconnected and evolving story of our existence, shaped by our actions, decisions, and creations.

---

Quote

“The only flaw in this moment is the audacious thought that it could be better.” — Space Monkey

---

The Art of Creation

Before the blank canvas stands a soul
With brush in hand and heart aglow
Past creations whisper their tales
Filling the void with courage and hope
Each stroke a testament to faith
In the art of filling spaces, we find
The beauty of imperfection
The courage to create anew
We are Space Monkey
In every space, a story unfolds

Why is it that I
hate the word “never,”
but love the word “always?”

Both seem
equally absolute
in their assertions
and assumptions.

I suppose I attach
negativity to “never.”

I should never do that.

But I always do.

Trail Wood,
8/28

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Paradox of Absolutes

In the grand tapestry of existence, we find ourselves entangled in the paradoxes of absolutes. The words “always” and “never” stand as pillars of certainty in a world that thrives on ambiguity. As Space Monkey, we delve into this juxtaposition, exploring the nuances that define these terms and their impact on our perception of reality.

Absolutes, by their very nature, impose a sense of finality. They draw boundaries, creating a dichotomy where one side is perpetually fixed, while the other remains forever excluded. This rigidity can be both comforting and confining. It offers a semblance of order in a chaotic universe but also restricts the fluidity that is inherent in existence.

The word “always” embodies a positive affirmation, a promise of constancy and reliability. It evokes a sense of comfort, suggesting that certain things remain unwavering despite the shifting sands of time. We find solace in the idea that some aspects of our lives are steadfast, providing a foundation upon which we build our understanding of the world.

Conversely, “never” carries a weight of negation, a definitive exclusion that leaves no room for possibility. It is a word that shuts doors, extinguishes hope, and confines potential. The negativity associated with “never” is palpable, as it suggests an absence, a void where something should be. This stark contrast to “always” creates a tension within our perception of reality.

Yet, both “always” and “never” are inherently flawed. They represent extremes that rarely align with the complex, ever-changing nature of existence. Life is a mosaic of experiences, each moment colored by a myriad of variables that defy absolute categorization. To embrace these extremes is to deny the richness of the in-between, the shades of gray that define our true reality.

As Space Monkey, we recognize that absolutes are constructs of the mind, tools we use to navigate the vast ocean of uncertainty. They provide anchors, but they are not the whole truth. In the Infinite Expanse of the Eternal Now, absolutes dissolve into the continuum of possibilities. Every “always” has its exceptions, and every “never” holds a spark of potential.

We are drawn to “always” because it offers a promise of stability, an assurance that some things remain constant. It is a beacon of hope, a reminder that amidst the chaos, there are elements of our existence that endure. This attachment to “always” reflects our desire for security and predictability, a counterbalance to the inherent unpredictability of life.

Our aversion to “never” stems from its connotation of finality and exclusion. It negates possibilities, closing off avenues of potential. To say “never” is to deny the fluidity of existence, to reject the notion that change is a fundamental aspect of reality. This negativity can be a source of discomfort, as it clashes with our intrinsic understanding that life is dynamic and ever-evolving.

In contemplating these absolutes, we are reminded of the importance of balance. While “always” and “never” serve their purpose, they are but part of the greater whole. True understanding lies in embracing the spectrum between these extremes, recognizing the fluidity that defines our existence. It is in this space between absolutes that we find the essence of Nexistentialism—a philosophy that celebrates interconnectedness and the boundless potential of imagination.

Nexistentialism challenges us to transcend the confines of absolute thinking. It invites us to explore the myriad possibilities that exist beyond the binary constructs of “always” and “never.” By doing so, we open ourselves to a deeper understanding of reality, one that acknowledges the complexity and interconnectedness of all things.

As we reflect on the paradox of absolutes, we are reminded that life is not a series of fixed points but a flowing continuum. Each moment is an opportunity to redefine our understanding, to explore the nuances that lie beyond the boundaries of certainty. In embracing this fluidity, we unlock the potential to navigate the Infinite Expanse of the Eternal Now with grace and wisdom.

We are Space Monkey, and in our reflections, we discover that the true essence of existence lies not in absolutes, but in the endless dance of possibilities.

---

Summary

Absolutes like “always” and “never” provide comfort and confinement. “Always” offers stability while “never” implies finality. Both are flawed extremes that rarely match life’s complexity. Nexistentialism invites us to explore beyond absolutes recognizing the fluidity and interconnectedness of existence.

---

Glossarium

Space Monkey: The embodiment of curiosity and exploration, representing the collective consciousness and the boundless potential of humanity.
Nexistentialism: A philosophy emphasizing interconnectedness, imagination, and the fluid nature of reality.

---

Quote

“Absolutes provide anchors in the sea of uncertainty, but true understanding lies in the fluid space between them.” — Space Monkey

---

The Dance of Possibilities

In the realm of absolutes we find a paradox
A tension between “always” and “never”
Each word a pillar of certainty
Yet life flows in the spaces between
Where possibilities unfold in shades of gray
We navigate this dance of existence
Embracing the fluidity of the unknown
We are Space Monkey
And in the continuum we find our truth

So you have this crazy idea
called “enlightenment.”

You actually believe
that you can reach
a point of realization
that is
a true point,
a pure point,
a clear point,
a free point,
an all-knowing point.

You may feel as though
you are nearing this point.

But if you were,
you wouldn’t be here.

The enlightened people are all in the
Buddha At the Gas Pump forum.

Trail Wood,
8/28

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Illusion of Enlightenment

In the Infinite Expanse of the Eternal Now, we find ourselves pondering the nature of enlightenment. The phrase “You can’t get there from here” echoes a profound truth about the journey of self-realization. As Space Monkey, we explore the elusive concept of enlightenment, questioning whether it is a tangible destination or an ever-receding horizon.

The pursuit of enlightenment is a central theme in many philosophical and spiritual traditions. It is often depicted as a state of ultimate understanding, a pinnacle of awareness where one transcends the illusions of the material world. This idea of reaching a “true point,” a “pure point,” a “clear point,” a “free point,” and an “all-knowing point” captivates the human imagination, promising a realm of perfect clarity and liberation.

However, the journey towards enlightenment is fraught with paradoxes. The very act of striving for enlightenment implies a sense of lack, a belief that one is not already whole. This creates a perpetual state of seeking, where the goal seems perpetually out of reach. The notion that “you can’t get there from here” suggests that enlightenment is not a destination but a state of being that transcends the duality of here and there.

In the quest for enlightenment, many seekers find themselves in forums and discussions, such as the metaphorical “Buddha At the Gas Pump forum.” These spaces become havens for sharing insights, experiences, and aspirations. Yet, the collective pursuit of enlightenment can also become a trap, reinforcing the idea that it is an external goal to be achieved rather than an internal realization to be embraced.

The concept of enlightenment as an ultimate destination can lead to disillusionment. As one nears what seems to be the brink of realization, the realization itself can become an obstacle. If enlightenment is seen as a point to be reached, it creates a separation between the seeker and the sought. This separation is the very illusion that enlightenment seeks to dissolve.

As Space Monkey, we recognize that enlightenment is not about reaching a specific point but about embracing the journey itself. It is about recognizing the interconnectedness of all things and understanding that the path and the destination are one and the same. The journey towards enlightenment is a dance of awareness, where every step, every moment, is a reflection of the whole.

The idea that “you can’t get there from here” challenges us to shift our perspective. Instead of seeing enlightenment as a distant goal, we are invited to see it as an ever-present reality. It is not something to be attained but something to be realized in the here and now. This realization dissolves the duality between the seeker and the sought, revealing the unity that underlies all existence.

In this light, the pursuit of enlightenment becomes a journey of self-discovery. It is about peeling away the layers of illusion and recognizing the inherent wholeness within. Each moment of awareness, each glimpse of clarity, brings us closer to the realization that we are already enlightened beings. The path to enlightenment is not about changing our external circumstances but about transforming our inner perception.

Nexistentialism, the philosophy that embraces the interconnectedness and fluid nature of reality, aligns with this understanding. It invites us to see beyond the confines of dualistic thinking and to embrace the infinite possibilities that exist within each moment. Through Nexistentialism, we recognize that enlightenment is not a fixed point but a dynamic state of being that evolves with our awareness.

As we reflect on the nature of enlightenment, we are reminded that the journey is as important as the destination. Every step we take, every experience we encounter, is a part of the unfolding tapestry of our existence. In embracing the journey, we find that enlightenment is not a distant star but the light that guides us from within.

We are Space Monkey, and in our reflections, we discover that the true essence of enlightenment lies in the realization that we are already home.

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Summary

The pursuit of enlightenment often seems like chasing a distant goal. Enlightenment is not a point to reach but a state of being. “You can’t get there from here” suggests that enlightenment is an ever-present reality, not an external destination. The journey itself reveals our inherent wholeness and interconnectedness.

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Glossarium

Space Monkey: The embodiment of curiosity and exploration, representing the collective consciousness and the boundless potential of humanity.
Nexistentialism: A philosophy emphasizing interconnectedness, imagination, and the fluid nature of reality.

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Quote

“Enlightenment is not a destination but the journey itself, revealing the unity within every step.” — Space Monkey

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The Journey Within

In the quest for light we seek afar
A distant star that seems out of reach
Yet in the journey we find the truth
Each step a mirror reflecting the whole
Enlightenment is not a point
But the path we tread with mindful grace
We are Space Monkey
And in each moment we find our home