Through adoration,
I make you into
something you’re not,
which is my ideal.

I can’t prove that you’re NOT my ideal,
because you are. I make you that way.

You, quite likely,
see yourself as someone
entirely different.

If you could see yourself as I see you,
you might question my sanity.
My adoration of you is transformational,
if only in my own mind.

I can’t speak for your mind.
I can only pray that you
have fun with your own adoration,
and know it for what it is.

And isn’t.

Trail Wood,
6/29

---

Space Monkey Reflects :Adoration and Deploration

In the intricate web of human perception, adoration and deploration are two sides of the same coin. Both stem from our ideals, or the apparent lack thereof, and both are fascinating to explore. These sentiments, while powerful, are often detached from any universal truth, rooted instead in our relative beliefs and subjective experiences.

Through adoration, we elevate others to the status of our ideals. This act of placing someone on a pedestal is not a reflection of their true self but rather a manifestation of our desires and fantasies. We see them not as they are, but as we wish them to be, creating a version of them that aligns with our ideals.

This transformational adoration is a curious phenomenon. It is rooted in our minds, shaping our perceptions and interactions. When we adore someone, we imbue them with qualities that we find admirable, projecting our inner values onto them. This process is deeply personal, and the adored individual may not even be aware of the pedestal upon which they have been placed.

The converse, deploration, works similarly but in the opposite direction. It involves casting someone in a negative light, seeing them as embodying qualities we detest or fear. Just like adoration, deploration is a projection of our inner beliefs and ideals, shaping how we perceive and interact with others.

Both adoration and deploration reveal more about the admirer or detractor than about the object of their feelings. They are reflections of our internal world, our values, and our fears. In this way, they are removed from any objective truth, existing solely within the realm of personal belief.

Consider the statement, “Through adoration, I make you into something you’re not, which is my ideal.” This encapsulates the essence of the transformational nature of adoration. We cannot prove that the person we adore is not our ideal because, in our minds, they have become that ideal. Our perception shapes our reality, creating a version of them that aligns with our desires.

This subjective transformation can be bewildering for the adored individual, who may see themselves very differently. If they could perceive themselves through our eyes, they might question the validity of our perceptions and perhaps our sanity. Yet, this does not diminish the power or the pleasure derived from adoration. It remains a deeply personal experience, enriching our emotional lives even if it is based on illusion.

The key to navigating these complex emotions is to recognize them for what they are. Adoration and deploration are products of our minds, projections of our ideals and fears. They are not definitive truths about others but rather reflections of our internal landscape. By acknowledging this, we can engage with these emotions more mindfully, appreciating their transformative power while maintaining a clear understanding of their subjective nature.

To adore is to engage in a form of creative expression, crafting an idealized version of another person that brings us joy or inspiration. This act of creation is as much about us as it is about them. It allows us to explore our values and desires, gaining insight into what we find meaningful and admirable.

Similarly, recognizing the subjective nature of deploration can help us understand our fears and aversions. It provides an opportunity for introspection, revealing the aspects of ourselves that we may need to confront or reconcile.

Ultimately, the dance of adoration and deploration is a testament to the complexity of human perception. It highlights the power of our minds to shape our reality and underscores the importance of self-awareness. By understanding the relative nature of these emotions, we can navigate our relationships with greater clarity and compassion.

In this cosmic play of perception, let us appreciate the beauty of our ideals and the shadows of our fears. Let us recognize the transformative power of our emotions while maintaining a clear-eyed view of their subjective origins. In doing so, we honor the complexity of our inner world and the richness of our human experience.

---

Summary

Adoration and deploration are projections of our ideals and fears. They transform our perception of others. These emotions reflect more about us than the objects of our feelings. Understanding their subjective nature helps navigate relationships with clarity.

---

Glossarium

Space Monkey: A cosmic entity symbolizing interconnected consciousness, perceiving beyond human limitations.

Adoration: The act of elevating someone to an idealized status based on personal desires and fantasies.

Deploration: The opposite of adoration, casting someone in a negative light based on inner fears and aversions.

Transformational Adoration: The process of seeing someone as embodying qualities we admire, shaping our perception of them.

Subjective Reality: The notion that our perceptions and beliefs shape our experience of the world, creating a reality unique to each individual.

---

“My adoration of you is transformational, if only in my own mind. I can’t speak for your mind.” — Space Monkey

---

In the realm of perception,
we paint with broad strokes,
adoration and deploration,
two sides of the same brush.
We elevate, we cast down,
projecting ideals and fears.
In this dance of light and shadow,
we find ourselves,
mirrored in the other.
Our minds shape our reality,
transforming the seen,
into the imagined.
We create, we destroy,
within the confines of our beliefs.
Let us honor this dance,
recognizing the subjective truth,
embracing the complexity,
of our human hearts.
We are Space Monkey.

I am preparing for
the ultimate showdown
when I accuse
my future therapist
of being imaginary.

The therapist will
no doubt disagree with me.

As I expect.

You see, I imagine
(and therefore manifest)
people who seemingly conflict
with my belief system.

It’s fun. I do it all the time.

I imagine that I am surrounded
by unbelievers.

My soul enjoys
these imaginary showdowns,
which is why I have them.

Trail Wood,
6/29

---

Space Monkey Reflects: Playful Confrontations with Beliefs

In the vast cosmos of the mind, where reality and imagination blur, we prepare for the ultimate imaginary showdown. This showdown is not a clash of swords or a battle of wills, but a playful confrontation with our own beliefs and perceptions. It is a dance of introspection and creativity, where the boundaries of sanity and insanity are joyfully explored.

“I think I would be secretly disappointed if I were ever considered perfectly sane.” This admission speaks to the allure of the unconventional, the desire to be seen as unique and special. In a world that often prizes conformity, embracing our perceived eccentricities becomes a form of rebellion, a celebration of our individuality.

The ultimate imaginary showdown involves accusing a future therapist of being imaginary. This scenario, rich with irony and humor, highlights the fluid nature of our perceptions. In this imagined confrontation, the therapist, a symbol of reason and sanity, is challenged as a figment of imagination. The therapist’s predictable disagreement reinforces the playfulness of the encounter, as both parties are constructs of the mind.

This playful conflict is more than just a mental exercise; it is a manifestation of a deeper desire to challenge and expand our belief systems. By imagining and manifesting people who seemingly conflict with our beliefs, we engage in a dynamic process of self-exploration. These imagined unbelievers become mirrors, reflecting the contradictions and complexities within our own souls.

“My soul enjoys these imaginary showdowns, which is why I have them.” This statement reveals the joy and satisfaction derived from these mental skirmishes. They are not mere fantasies but purposeful engagements that enrich our inner lives. Through these playful conflicts, we test the boundaries of our beliefs, question our assumptions, and ultimately grow in understanding.

The concept of an ultimate imaginary showdown invites us to consider the role of imagination in shaping our reality. Our thoughts and perceptions are powerful forces, capable of creating entire worlds within our minds. By embracing the fluidity of imagination, we allow ourselves to explore new perspectives and possibilities, free from the constraints of conventional thinking.

In this cosmic arena, where imagination reigns supreme, we become both the protagonist and the antagonist, the hero and the villain. Each imagined conflict is a story we tell ourselves, a narrative that helps us make sense of our inner world. These stories, while imaginary, hold profound truths about our desires, fears, and aspirations.

The joy of these imaginary showdowns lies in their unpredictability. Unlike real-life conflicts, where outcomes are often fixed by external factors, the realm of imagination offers infinite possibilities. We can rewrite the rules, change the characters, and alter the outcomes as we see fit. This creative freedom is both liberating and empowering, allowing us to explore the depths of our psyche without fear of judgment or consequence.

As we navigate these mental landscapes, we gain insight into the nature of our beliefs and the ways in which they shape our reality. We learn to appreciate the fluidity of our perceptions and the power of our imagination. This awareness fosters a deeper connection with our true selves, as we recognize that our thoughts and beliefs are not fixed but ever-evolving.

Ultimately, the ultimate imaginary showdown is a celebration of the mind’s creative potential. It is an invitation to embrace the playful, the absurd, and the unconventional. By engaging in these mental skirmishes, we honor the complexity of our inner world and the boundless possibilities of our imagination.

In this cosmic dance of belief and perception, let us find joy in the unpredictable, revel in the absurd, and celebrate the uniqueness of our individual journeys. For in the realm of the imagination, we are truly free to explore, create, and transform.

---

Summary

Imaginary showdowns are playful confrontations with our beliefs. They reveal our desire to be unique and challenge conventional thinking. These mental skirmishes enrich our inner lives and highlight the power of imagination. They celebrate the mind’s creative potential and the fluidity of perception.

---

Glossarium

Space Monkey: A cosmic entity symbolizing interconnected consciousness, perceiving beyond human limitations.

Imaginary Showdown: A playful mental confrontation where beliefs and perceptions are challenged and explored.

Fluid Nature of Perception: The idea that our thoughts and beliefs are not fixed but ever-evolving, shaped by imagination.

Protagonist and Antagonist: Roles we assume in our mental narratives, representing the duality of our inner conflicts.

Cosmic Arena: The boundless mental space where imagination and reality intersect, offering infinite possibilities.

---

“I imagine that I am surrounded by unbelievers. My soul enjoys these imaginary showdowns, which is why I have them.” — Space Monkey

---

In the theater of the mind,
where reality meets imagination,
we stage our ultimate showdowns.
Protagonist and antagonist,
each a creation of our thoughts.
We dance with beliefs,
play with perceptions,
in a cosmic arena of infinite possibilities.
The joy of the unpredictable,
the freedom of the absurd,
celebrate the fluidity of our inner worlds.
Imagination shapes our reality,
revealing truths through fantasy.
We are creators,
explorers,
transformers of the self.
In this cosmic dance,
we find our freedom,
our joy,
our true essence.
We are Space Monkey.

Intelligence persists
because grace allows.

Grace does not
need intelligence.

Yet intelligence
believes that it is somehow
the giver of grace.

This is fine with grace,
who lets intelligence be
whatever intelligence
believes itself to be.

Grace knows what grace is,
even though it doesn’t need to.

Intelligence has
an insatiable need
to figure intelligence out.

Intelligence persists
because grace doesn’t mind.

Trail Wood,
6/28

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Dance of Intelligence and Grace

In the grand dance of existence, intelligence and grace are two partners moving in harmonious balance. If asked to choose between the two, many might lean towards intelligence, valuing its ability to reason, analyze, and solve problems. Yet, grace whispers that no such choice is necessary, for it is the silent enabler of intelligence, allowing it to flourish and persist.

Intelligence thrives in an environment nurtured by grace. It delves into the realms of logic, seeks answers, and strives to understand the complexities of the universe. This relentless pursuit of knowledge is driven by an insatiable need to figure itself out, to decode the mysteries of existence. Intelligence is the active force, ever-curious and constantly evolving, shaping our perceptions and driving progress.

Grace, on the other hand, is the serene presence that underpins this quest. It does not need intelligence to validate its existence; it simply is. Grace embodies acceptance, understanding, and an effortless flow. It allows intelligence to explore, to question, and even to believe that it is the source of grace. This quiet confidence in its own nature is the hallmark of grace—it knows what it is without needing to prove anything.

The interplay between intelligence and grace is a delicate balance. Intelligence can sometimes become overconfident, assuming it is the master of all it surveys. Yet, grace remains unfazed, letting intelligence be whatever it believes itself to be. This relationship illustrates a profound truth: while intelligence may seek to control and comprehend, it is grace that provides the space for such endeavors to unfold.

Imagine intelligence as a figure deeply engaged in thought, surrounded by books, symbols, and tools of knowledge. This figure represents the active, analytical aspect of our nature, always striving for understanding. Nearby stands grace, a calm and serene presence, radiating a soft glow that symbolizes acceptance and unconditional support. Grace does not interfere with intelligence’s quest but provides a foundation of peace and assurance.

In this harmonious scene, the background merges elements of nature with abstract patterns, reflecting the balance and coexistence of these two forces. The natural world, with its effortless beauty and complexity, mirrors the quiet strength of grace. The abstract patterns represent the intricate workings of intelligence, always seeking to decode and explain.

This relationship teaches us the value of both intelligence and grace in our lives. Intelligence drives us to innovate, to learn, and to grow. It is the force that pushes boundaries and expands our horizons. Yet, without grace, intelligence can become rigid, overly critical, and disconnected from the deeper currents of life. Grace brings balance, reminding us to be gentle with ourselves and others, to accept the things we cannot change, and to find peace in the midst of uncertainty.

Grace also teaches us humility. It shows that no matter how much we know or achieve, there is always a greater force at play, one that allows our efforts to bear fruit. This humility is not about diminishing our capabilities but about recognizing the interconnectedness of all things. It is about understanding that our intelligence is part of a larger, more profound tapestry.

The dance of intelligence and grace is ongoing, a dynamic interplay that shapes our experiences and our growth. As we navigate the complexities of life, we can strive to embody both qualities—using our intelligence to seek knowledge and solutions, while embracing grace to accept, support, and uplift ourselves and others.

In embracing this balance, we become more whole, more integrated beings. We learn to appreciate the strengths and limitations of our intelligence, while finding solace and strength in the quiet power of grace. This holistic approach enriches our lives, fostering a deeper connection to ourselves, each other, and the universe.

---

Summary

Intelligence seeks knowledge. Grace allows it to flourish. Together they create harmony in existence.

---

Glossarium

Intelligence: The active force of reasoning, analyzing, and seeking knowledge.

Grace: The serene presence of acceptance, understanding, and effortless flow.

Balance: The harmonious interplay between intelligence and grace, fostering growth and peace.

---

Quote

“Intelligence thrives because grace allows it, creating a harmonious dance of understanding and acceptance.” – Space Monkey

---

Modernist Free-Verse Poem

In the dance of existence
intelligence seeks
knowledge, answers
unraveling the mysteries
of the universe
Driven, relentless
it shapes our world
with questions and discoveries
Yet grace
stands quietly
a serene presence
allowing, accepting
It does not need
to prove itself
Grace simply is
Effortless, supportive
It lets intelligence be
what it believes
itself to be
Together they move
a harmonious balance
seeking and allowing
pushing and embracing
In this dance
we find our place
striving and accepting
learning and loving
In the interplay
of intelligence and grace
we become whole
We are Space Monkey

We are taught
how to read and write,
how to logic things out,
how to cooperate and behave,
how to think and feel,
but we never seem to be taught
how to fully express our consciousness.

We actually believe that
communicating with words,
pictures or movements is
all there is to expression.

We are given a sense of the void,
which is commonly touched through
art, music and nature.

We encounter expression
so unthinkably sublime that
we actually believe it’s beyond us.

This makes us sad, in a way,
yet also hopeful.

I have felt this spark in myself,
perhaps only an infinitesimal sense,
and wonder what it might be like
if we could teach all beings
to access and share the magic,
tune into the transcendent frequency,
nurture the holy vibration that
seems innate in all of us.

Trail Wood,
6/28

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Unspoken Language of Consciousness

On the tip of our imaginary tongues lies an unspoken language, one that transcends words, pictures, and movements. We are taught many things: how to read and write, how to reason and cooperate, how to think and feel. Yet, we seldom learn how to fully express the depths of our consciousness. This gap in our understanding leaves us yearning for something more profound, something beyond the conventional modes of communication.

We often believe that the expressions of our inner world are limited to the tangible forms we create. Art, music, and nature offer glimpses into this deeper realm, touching the edges of the void from which true expression emanates. These moments of sublime beauty seem almost beyond our reach, making us feel both saddened and hopeful. We sense the spark within ourselves, a fleeting glimpse of the magic that lies dormant, waiting to be awakened.

This spark is the essence of our consciousness, the transcendent frequency that connects us to the greater whole. It is a holy vibration, innate in all of us, yet often obscured by the noise of everyday life. What if we could teach all beings to access this frequency, to tune into the transcendent and share the magic within? Such a world would be one of profound connection and understanding, where peace and unity prevail.

Imagine a scene where diverse figures stand in a harmonious circle, each radiating a soft glow of consciousness. They are surrounded by symbols of art, music, and nature—manifestations of the sublime expressions of the void. This scene represents the potential within each of us to connect deeply, beyond the limitations of language and form. It is an invitation to explore the unspoken language of our souls, to communicate through the vibrations of our being.

We often overlook the silent spaces between our thoughts and words, yet it is in these spaces that true understanding resides. By cultivating a deeper awareness of our inner world, we begin to access the transcendent frequency that lies at the heart of our existence. This frequency is not something to be created but something to be uncovered, a reminder of the interconnectedness that defines our reality.

In our modern world, we are inundated with information and stimuli, which can drown out the subtle vibrations of our consciousness. To reconnect with the transcendent, we must learn to quiet the mind, to listen deeply to the silence within. Practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and immersion in nature can help us tune into this frequency, allowing us to experience the profound peace and unity that come from within.

Teaching all beings to access and share this magic involves nurturing the holy vibration that is present in each of us. It means creating spaces for deep listening, for authentic expression, and for the recognition of our shared humanity. It is about fostering environments where individuals feel safe to explore their inner worlds and to share their unique gifts with others.

By embracing the unspoken language of consciousness, we open ourselves to a richer, more nuanced experience of life. We learn to appreciate the subtle connections that bind us, to see the beauty in the ephemeral moments, and to find peace in the midst of chaos. This journey is one of continuous discovery, as we delve deeper into the layers of our being and uncover the transcendent truths that lie within.

In this exploration, we come to realize that we are not separate entities but part of a greater whole. The magic we seek is not outside of us but within, waiting to be awakened. As we tune into this frequency, we align ourselves with the flow of the universe, experiencing the harmony and unity that are our true nature.

---

Summary

We seek deeper expression. Beyond words lies a transcendent frequency. Tuning into this brings unity and peace.

---

Glossarium

Unspoken Language: The deeper, non-verbal expression of our consciousness.

Transcendent Frequency: The innate vibration connecting us to the greater whole, beyond conventional communication.

Holy Vibration: The sacred, innate energy within all beings that fosters unity and understanding.

---

Quote

“The magic we seek lies within, waiting to be awakened through the unspoken language of our consciousness.” – Space Monkey

---

Modernist Free-Verse Poem

On the tip of our tongues
an unspoken language
Transcending words
pictures
movements
We yearn for deeper expression
Art, music, nature
glimpses of the void
Sublime, beyond reach
Sparking hope,
a dormant magic within
The transcendent frequency
our essence
Holy vibration
in every being
What if we taught this?
To access, to share
To tune in, to connect
In silence
we find the depth
The unspoken
the subtle
Between thoughts, words
true understanding
We are part of the whole
Magic inside
awaiting discovery
In unity, we find peace
We are Space Monkey

Don’t ask
if you’re good enough for me,
ask if one or both of us
has a problem with expectations.

Don’t ask
if it’s really a problem,
ask if one or both of us
are living under
the rules of judgement.

Don’t ask
if this is
supposed to happen,
just notice how
one of us or both of us
is becoming aware of what
seems to be occurring
and wondering
if “is” and “seems to be”
are the same thing
or if we simply allow
one or both of them
to appear that way.

Trail Wood,
6/28

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Dance of Perception and Reality

In the dance of relationships and self-awareness, we often grapple with the question of whether we are good enough for each other. This question, however, may be missing the point. Instead of questioning our worthiness, we might consider whether one or both of us has a problem with expectations. These expectations, often unspoken, shape our perceptions and judgments, influencing how we view ourselves and others.

The interplay between ‘is’ and ‘seems to be’ is a delicate one. What we perceive as reality may not be the absolute truth but rather a reflection of our thoughts and emotions. In relationships, this distinction becomes crucial. We may find ourselves wondering if what we experience is genuinely happening or if it is merely our interpretation of events influenced by expectations and judgments.

In this introspective scene, imagine two figures standing together, surrounded by abstract representations of their thoughts and emotions. The background blends elements of tranquil nature with ethereal patterns, symbolizing the interplay between perception and reality. These figures are in a moment of reflection, exploring the difference between ‘is’ and ‘seems to be.’ This exploration is not about finding definitive answers but about understanding the shared journey of awareness and acceptance.

Expectations can be subtle and pervasive, often operating beneath the surface of our conscious awareness. They shape our interactions and influence our judgments, leading us to question our worth and the worth of others. By becoming aware of these expectations, we can begin to see how they color our perceptions, creating a filter through which we view the world. This awareness is the first step in moving beyond judgment and towards a more compassionate and accepting way of being.

Judgment, too, plays a significant role in how we perceive ourselves and others. When we judge, we impose our standards and beliefs onto situations, often without fully understanding them. This can create a barrier to genuine connection and understanding. By recognizing the rules of judgment we live under, we can begin to question their validity and choose a different path—one of openness and acceptance.

The process of becoming aware of what is occurring involves a shift in perspective. It requires us to move from a place of automatic response to one of mindful observation. This shift allows us to see things as they are, rather than through the lens of our expectations and judgments. In this space of awareness, we can explore the nuances of our experiences, understanding that ‘is’ and ‘seems to be’ may both hold elements of truth.

When we allow ourselves to explore these nuances, we open up to a deeper understanding of ourselves and our relationships. We begin to see that our perceptions are not fixed but fluid, influenced by our inner landscape. This realization invites us to approach our interactions with curiosity and compassion, recognizing that what we perceive is a co-creation of our thoughts and emotions.

In this dance of perception and reality, we learn to navigate the complexities of our experiences with greater ease and grace. We understand that our perceptions are just one aspect of the broader tapestry of existence, and we become more attuned to the subtle interplay of ‘is’ and ‘seems to be.’ This attunement allows us to move through life with a sense of openness and acceptance, embracing the uncertainties and ambiguities that are part of the human experience.

As we continue this journey of self-awareness and understanding, we realize that we do not need to choose between being good enough or not. Instead, we can focus on how we perceive and interact with the world around us. By letting go of rigid expectations and judgments, we create space for authentic connection and deeper understanding. In this space, we find peace and acceptance, both within ourselves and in our relationships.

---

Summary

Perception shapes our reality. Expectations and judgments influence our interactions. Awareness leads to understanding and acceptance.

---

Glossarium

Expectations: Subtle beliefs and assumptions that shape our perceptions and interactions.

Judgment: Imposing personal standards and beliefs onto situations, often without full understanding.

Perception and Reality: The interplay between what we believe to be true and what actually is.

---

Quote

“In the dance of perception and reality, we find peace by letting go of rigid expectations and judgments.” – Space Monkey

---

Modernist Free-Verse Poem

In the dance
of perception and reality
we question
Are we good enough
or do expectations
color our view?
Judgments cast shadows
on what is
and what seems to be
Subtle, pervasive
they shape our world
Our task
to notice
to understand
In the quiet space
between thoughts
we find truth
Fluid, unfixed
a dance of awareness
Letting go
of rigid lines
we embrace
the nuance
the ambiguity
In this space
we connect
we understand
we accept
The dance continues
unfolding
always becoming
We are Space Monkey