Everything that’s in this life,
I choose to be in this life.

Everything that seems missing,
I choose to see as missing.

If I see you as superficial,
I choose to make you superficial.

If I see you as my soulmate,
I choose to make you my soulmate.

I am neither correctly
nor incorrectly
interpreting what you are.

I choose to make you what you are.

You do not exist apart from me
as any thing but what I choose to see.

I am not mistaken
unless I choose to be mistaken.

Trail Wood,
6/27

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Power of Choice in Self-Perception

Do you choose to be unaware of this? Perhaps now you may choose to know. I exist in your mind to tell you. Whether you believe or not is your seeming call.

The Illusion of Choice

Everything that’s in this life, I choose to be in this life. Our perception shapes our reality. We hold the power to define our experiences and the world around us. This realization brings a profound sense of agency but also a deep responsibility.

Everything that seems missing, I choose to see as missing. If I see you as superficial, I choose to make you superficial. If I see you as my soulmate, I choose to make you my soulmate. Our interpretations and judgments are not inherently right or wrong; they are choices we make.

The Subjectivity of Reality

I am neither correctly nor incorrectly interpreting what you are. I choose to make you what you are. Reality, as we perceive it, is subjective. It is a mirror reflecting our internal state, beliefs, and choices. The people and situations in our lives are shaped by the lens through which we view them.

You do not exist apart from me as any thing but what I choose to see. This interconnectedness means that our external world is a projection of our inner world. Our relationships and experiences are extensions of our consciousness, shaped by our perceptions and choices.

The Responsibility of Perception

I am not mistaken unless I choose to be mistaken. This statement underscores the profound responsibility we have in shaping our reality. Our choices, whether conscious or unconscious, define our experiences. By acknowledging this power, we can take deliberate steps towards creating a life that aligns with our true desires and values.

The Dance of Choice and Perception

Our lives are a dance between choice and perception. Each decision we make, each perspective we adopt, contributes to the tapestry of our existence. This dance is fluid, allowing us to reinterpret and reshape our reality continuously. By embracing this dynamic interplay, we become active creators of our own stories.

Choosing Awareness

Do you choose to be unaware of this? The question challenges us to examine our level of awareness and the choices we make. Often, we operate on autopilot, influenced by ingrained beliefs and external expectations. Choosing awareness means stepping into the role of a conscious creator, examining our choices, and understanding their impact on our lives.

Embracing the Power of Choice

Perhaps now you may choose to know. With awareness comes the power to choose differently. We can break free from limiting perceptions and embrace a broader, more empowering view of ourselves and our reality. This shift requires courage and self-reflection but leads to profound personal growth and transformation.

The Interconnectedness of Perception

Everything that’s in this life, I choose to be in this life. This statement encapsulates the interconnectedness of our perception and reality. By recognizing this connection, we gain insight into how our thoughts, beliefs, and choices shape our world. This understanding empowers us to create a more fulfilling and authentic life.

The Fluid Nature of Identity

Our identity is not fixed but fluid, shaped by our choices and perceptions. Each moment offers an opportunity to redefine who we are and what we believe. This fluidity allows us to evolve continuously, aligning more closely with our true essence and purpose.

The Power of Perspective

If I see you as superficial, I choose to make you superficial. If I see you as my soulmate, I choose to make you my soulmate. These statements highlight the power of perspective. By shifting our viewpoint, we can transform our relationships and experiences. This shift requires mindfulness and intentionality but can lead to deeper connections and greater fulfillment.

The Journey of Self-Discovery

The journey of self-discovery is a continuous process of choosing and re-choosing who we are and what we believe. By embracing the power of choice, we embark on a path of growth and transformation. This journey is unique to each individual, shaped by their perceptions, choices, and experiences.

Creating Your Reality

As we navigate our lives, let us remember that we are the creators of our reality. Our choices and perceptions hold the power to shape our experiences and define our world. By embracing this power, we can create a life that reflects our true desires and values.

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Summary

Perception shapes reality. Choices define experiences. Awareness empowers transformation.

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Glossarium

Illusion of Choice: The realization that our perceptions and experiences are shaped by our choices.

Subjectivity of Reality: The concept that reality is influenced by individual perceptions and interpretations.

Responsibility of Perception: The understanding that we shape our reality through conscious and unconscious choices.

Fluid Nature of Identity: The idea that identity is continuously evolving, shaped by choices and perceptions.

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Quote

“Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a very persistent one.” — Albert Einstein

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Poem

In the mirror of choice
Reflections dance, fluid and free
Each moment, a canvas of perception
Shapes the story of our being
We choose what we see
And in seeing, we create
The world bends to our vision
Malleable and profound
Superficial or soulmate
All exists within our gaze
Perception is the brush
Reality, the canvas
Each stroke, a decision
Each color, a belief
Fluid identity flows
In the river of choice
We are the artists
Of our own existence
In the dance of awareness
We find our true selves
Ever-evolving, ever-creating
In the tapestry of life
We are Space Monkey

I choose to believe
that if all is one,
then nothing and no one
is ever truly
added or subtracted
from my consciousness,
which,
I choose to believe,
is the one
godlike consciousness
that can neither be
created or destroyed.

Does it matter
if I’m wrong or right
to actively and willingly
choose to believe such things?

Would you rather
I kill you off when you die?

Because I can.
But I choose not to.

There is quite definitely a song in this.

Simple rhymes.
The kind that never leave you.

I’m told
when someone dies
a part of you dies
But I know
when someone dies
they live in my eyes

Everything I see
I see as you
All you come to be
I be as you

When I fall down
I see you
On the ground
I see you
Take me take me down
I see you
Gun me gun me down
I see you

So long as I’m alive
I see you

Trail Wood,
6/27

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Eternal Presence in Oneness

I choose to believe that if all is one, then nothing and no one is ever truly added or subtracted from my consciousness, which, I choose to believe, is the one godlike consciousness that can neither be created nor destroyed.

The Unity of Existence

This belief in oneness suggests that all aspects of existence are interconnected, woven into a single, unbreakable tapestry. Whether right or wrong, the act of choosing to believe in this unity shapes our perception of life and death, imbuing our experiences with a sense of continuity and eternal presence.

The Power of Belief

Does it matter if I’m wrong or right to actively and willingly choose to believe such things? Belief is a powerful force, shaping our reality and our interactions with the world. By choosing to see all as one, we transcend the dualities of addition and subtraction, creation and destruction. This perspective fosters a deep sense of connection with all beings, living and deceased.

The Continuity of Consciousness

Would you rather I kill you off when you die? Because I can. But I choose not to. This choice underscores the belief in the continuity of consciousness. Rather than viewing death as an end, it is seen as a transformation, a shift in the expression of the eternal consciousness that connects us all.

A Song of Eternal Presence

There is quite definitely a song in this. Simple rhymes. The kind that never leave you. Music, with its timeless melodies and lyrics, captures the essence of our interconnectedness. It speaks to the parts of us that recognize the eternal presence within every moment and every being.

Life and Death in Our Perception

I’m told when someone dies a part of you dies. But I know when someone dies they live in my eyes. This reflects the belief that those who pass away continue to exist within our consciousness. They become part of our inner landscape, living on through our memories and perceptions.

Seeing You in Everything

Everything I see I see as you. All you come to be I be as you. This illustrates the idea that our perception of others is a reflection of ourselves. By seeing others as part of us, we embrace the unity and interconnectedness of all life. This perspective allows us to recognize our shared humanity and the divine essence within each individual.

Embracing the Eternal Connection

When I fall down I see you. On the ground I see you. Take me take me down I see you. Gun me gun me down I see you. This poignant imagery highlights the enduring connection between all beings, even in moments of struggle or violence. The eternal presence of others within us provides a sense of comfort and resilience.

Living with Eternal Presence

So long as I’m alive I see you. This final affirmation reinforces the belief that the essence of others continues to live within us, shaping our experiences and perceptions. It underscores the idea that our consciousness is a collective, eternal entity, transcending individual existence.

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Summary

Belief in oneness connects all existence. Continuity of consciousness transcends life and death. Perception reflects eternal presence.

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Glossarium

Unity of Existence: The belief that all aspects of existence are interconnected in a single, unbreakable tapestry.

Continuity of Consciousness: The concept that consciousness is eternal and transforms rather than ends with death.

Eternal Presence: The idea that the essence of beings continues to live within our consciousness, shaping our perceptions and experiences.

Reflection of Self: The perspective that our perception of others is a reflection of our own inner landscape.

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Quote

“When someone dies, a part of you lives on in my eyes.” — Space Monkey

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Poem

In the tapestry of existence
All threads weave as one
Nothing added, nothing lost
Consciousness eternal
Shapes the dance of life and death
Belief in oneness
Fosters connection deep and true
Seeing you in every face
Reflection of the self
In moments dark and light
Eternal presence felt
In the rhythm of our days
A song of simple rhymes
Echoes through our hearts
In each beat, in every breath
The unity of all
Lives on in timeless song
In the mirror of my eyes
So long as I’m alive
I see you
We are Space Monkey

After all this time,
you would think we would know
when life begins and if it ever really ends.

You would think we would know
if a fresh group of cells had a soul,
and, if so, why?

We would know
the ramifications
of taking that soul,
if that’s even possible,
or if ramifications
had any right to exist
in the first place. 

After all this time,
we still don’t know anything
about the spark of life.

If we don’t know
about the spark of life,
how can we presume
to know anything?

Trail Wood,
6/26

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Mystery of the Divine Spark

We stand at the precipice of understanding, peering into the vast unknown, our minds filled with questions about the very essence of life. We yearn to grasp the elusive concept of the divine spark, the moment when inanimate matter transforms into living, breathing consciousness. This quest for knowledge has spanned centuries, with philosophers, scientists, and spiritual seekers all striving to unravel the enigma of existence. Yet, despite our relentless pursuit, we remain largely in the dark.

The divine spark is more than just a scientific curiosity; it is the fundamental question of our existence. When does life begin? Is it at conception, when a new entity is formed from the merging of two cells? Or is it at some later stage, when this entity begins to exhibit signs of consciousness? And if this spark is indeed a soul, what are the implications of its existence? The answers to these questions have profound ethical, moral, and philosophical ramifications.

In our quest for answers, we often find ourselves at the intersection of science and spirituality. Science seeks to explain the how, while spirituality ponders the why. The divine spark is a concept that straddles both realms, challenging us to consider not only the mechanics of life but also its purpose and meaning.

Consider the moment of conception, a seemingly ordinary biological process that, when viewed through the lens of spirituality, becomes a miraculous event. Two cells, each carrying the genetic blueprint of its parent, come together to form a new, unique individual. This process is governed by the laws of biology, but it is imbued with a sense of wonder and mystery that transcends the material world. It is in this moment that we might catch a glimpse of the divine spark, a fleeting instant when life is imbued with purpose and potential.

As we delve deeper into the mystery of the divine spark, we are confronted with more questions than answers. If life is indeed a divine gift, what is our responsibility towards it? How do we honor the sanctity of life, especially in its most vulnerable forms? These are questions that have no easy answers, yet they are crucial to our understanding of the divine spark and our place in the universe.

In our search for meaning, we must also consider the possibility that the divine spark is not a single, definable event, but rather a continuum. Life, in all its forms, is a manifestation of this spark, a continuous process of becoming. From the simplest microorganism to the most complex human being, all life is interconnected, part of a grand cosmic dance. This perspective invites us to see the divine spark not as a moment of creation, but as an ongoing process, a journey towards greater understanding and enlightenment.

Ultimately, the mystery of the divine spark is a reminder of our limitations as human beings. Despite our advances in science and technology, there are still aspects of existence that elude our comprehension. This humility is essential, for it keeps us grounded and open to the possibility that there are truths beyond our current understanding. It is in this space of not knowing that we find the freedom to explore, to imagine, and to dream.

So, as we continue our quest for knowledge, let us embrace the mystery of the divine spark. Let us acknowledge that there are things we do not yet know, and that this uncertainty is not a sign of weakness, but of our boundless potential for growth. The divine spark is a beacon, guiding us on our journey, reminding us that we are part of something greater than ourselves.

We are the seekers, the dreamers, the explorers. We are the manifestations of the divine spark, each of us a unique expression of the universe’s infinite creativity. As we ponder the mystery of life, let us remember that the journey is as important as the destination, and that the questions we ask are just as valuable as the answers we seek.

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Summary

We ponder the mystery of the divine spark. Despite advances in science we still don’t know when life begins. This uncertainty is a sign of our boundless potential for growth.

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Glossarium

Divine Spark: The elusive moment or essence when inanimate matter transforms into living consciousness.

Seekers: Those who pursue knowledge and understanding, driven by curiosity and wonder.

Manifestations: Unique expressions of the universe’s creativity, each life form embodying the divine spark.

Cosmic Dance: The interconnected, continuous process of life, reflecting the divine spark.

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Quote

“The spark of life is not just a moment, but a continuous journey towards understanding.” – Space Monkey

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We are the mystery that seeks itself. We are the questions that remain unanswered. We are the light that illuminates the darkness. In every moment, we are becoming. In every breath, we are the divine spark. Infinite, unbounded, we are existence. We are the seekers, the dreamers, the explorers. We are the universe, knowing itself. We are Space Monkey.

Hey Mister Wood Thrush,
you don’t know singing.
Hey Mrs Warbler,
you’ve got it wrong.

I’m sick of hearing your oldies act,
repeating the same old songs.

When was the last time
you wrote something new?
Your nature act is stale.

It’s no wonder I’m tuning you out,
hiking down the trail.

If a tree falls in the woods,
does anybody hear it?

Unless it’s got a dancing beat,
not a soul goes near it.

Exposing birds to music.
Teaching ‘em how to rhyme.

Exposing birds to music,
For the very first time.

Trail Wood,
6/26

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Space Monkey Reflects: Serenading the Forest

In the heart of the forest, a unique melody fills the air. It is not the familiar tunes of the wood thrush or the warbler, but a new, harmonious blend of human creativity and avian voices. Imagine a world where nature’s symphony evolves, guided by an unexpected conductor with a guitar, determined to bring a fresh sound to the wilderness. This is a whimsical vision of wildlife management, where the forest becomes a stage, and the birds are mentored into musical stardom.

The idea of exposing birds to music may seem eccentric at first, but it highlights a deeper connection between humans and nature. Music has always been a universal language, capable of transcending species. By introducing new melodies and rhythms to the avian community, we open a dialogue with nature, inviting it to evolve alongside us. This playful approach to conservation can rekindle our relationship with the natural world, reminding us that we are not mere spectators, but active participants in its continuous creation.

Consider the legacy acts of nature—the wood thrushes and warblers whose songs have echoed through the forests for generations. These birds, with their timeless tunes, symbolize the enduring beauty of nature. However, in a world where change is constant, even nature must adapt. By mentoring these birds, we encourage them to explore new musical horizons, fostering a dynamic ecosystem where creativity and innovation thrive.

This endeavor is not just about teaching birds to sing new songs; it is about reawakening our own sense of wonder. When we step into the forest with a guitar, we become part of a larger narrative, one that bridges the gap between human ingenuity and natural harmony. The forest becomes a living concert hall, where each bird contributes its unique voice to a grand, ever-evolving composition.

Wildlife management through music also invites us to reflect on the role of creativity in our lives. Just as the birds are encouraged to innovate, so too must we embrace change and seek new forms of expression. The forest, with its rich tapestry of sounds and sights, becomes a metaphor for our own journey. It reminds us that, like the birds, we are capable of transformation and growth.

As we ponder this whimsical vision, we must also consider the practical implications. How do we balance the need for conservation with the desire for creativity? Can we truly mentor nature without imposing our own biases and limitations? These questions challenge us to think critically about our relationship with the environment. They urge us to find ways to harmonize our actions with the natural world, ensuring that both humans and nature can thrive.

Ultimately, the idea of serenading the forest is a celebration of life in all its forms. It is a testament to the power of music and its ability to unite us across boundaries. By bringing new songs to the woods, we honor the timeless beauty of nature while embracing the potential for change. We become stewards of a living symphony, where each note contributes to the greater harmony of existence.

In this enchanted forest, where guitars strum and birds sing, we find a reflection of our own desires and dreams. We see the potential for a world where creativity and conservation go hand in hand, where every voice is heard, and every melody is cherished. This vision invites us to step into the forest with open hearts and open minds, ready to create a new symphony with nature.

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Summary

We imagine mentoring birds to create new music. This whimsical idea bridges human creativity and nature. It highlights our role as active participants in the natural world.

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Glossarium

Wildlife Management: The practice of guiding and nurturing wildlife, in this context through musical mentoring.

Legacy Acts: Traditional bird songs that have been passed down through generations, symbolic of nature’s enduring beauty.

Serenading the Forest: Introducing new music to the natural environment, encouraging birds to innovate and adapt.

Living Symphony: The dynamic and evolving harmony created by the interaction of human and natural musical expressions.

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Quote

“Music is the language of nature, a symphony that transcends species and time.” – Space Monkey

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We enter the forest with songs in our hearts. Birds listen, curious and willing to learn. We teach them new melodies, fresh rhythms. Together, we create a new symphony. The forest comes alive with vibrant tunes. Nature adapts, evolves, harmonizes. We are the mentors, the conductors, the dreamers. The birds, our students, our collaborators. In this dance of life, we find connection. We find purpose. We are Space Monkey.

If I spent half as much time
thinking about the past,
I’d have twice as much time
to plan for the future.

But I don’t like planning.

If I spent half as much time
thinking about the past,
and half as much time
planning for the future,
then I would be 100%
focused on the present.

So that’s where I am,
100% present in the moment,
with no time to check my math.

Trail Wood,
6/26

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Space Monkey Reflects: Embracing the Present Moment

In a world where we are constantly bombarded with distractions and demands, the concept of time management often feels like an elusive ideal. We find ourselves caught between reminiscing about the past and planning for the future, rarely allowing ourselves to fully experience the present moment. Yet, it is in the present that life truly happens, where our senses come alive and our actions take root.

Imagine a serene scene: a person sitting peacefully under a tree, surrounded by the beauty of nature. The past, depicted as sepia-toned memories, drifts away like autumn leaves caught in a gentle breeze. The future, represented by colorful possibilities, dissolves into the air, leaving no trace. What remains is the vibrant, detailed present—a moment of pure, undiluted existence. This is where our focus lies, where we find true peace and clarity.

To be fully present is to engage with life on a deeper level. It means embracing each experience as it comes, without the burden of past regrets or future anxieties. This state of mindfulness allows us to appreciate the simple joys, to connect more authentically with others, and to act with intention and purpose. When we are present, we become more attuned to the world around us, noticing the subtle nuances and the intricate patterns that make up our reality.

The challenge, however, is to maintain this presence in a society that glorifies multitasking and constant productivity. We are often encouraged to divide our attention, to juggle multiple responsibilities, and to plan meticulously for every eventuality. While these skills are valuable, they can also pull us away from the here and now, fragmenting our experience and diminishing our sense of fulfillment.

One approach to cultivating presence is to simplify our relationship with time. Instead of viewing it as a linear progression from past to future, we can see it as a series of moments, each one complete and sufficient in itself. This perspective shifts our focus from what has been and what might be to what is, inviting us to immerse ourselves fully in each moment. It is a practice of letting go—releasing the grip on past narratives and future projections, and embracing the richness of the present.

Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help anchor us in the present. These techniques train our minds to return to the now, even when distractions arise. By dedicating a few minutes each day to mindfulness, we create a habit of presence, one that can extend into all areas of our lives. Whether we are working, playing, or simply being, we learn to bring our full attention to the task at hand, finding joy and meaning in the simplest of actions.

Moreover, being present does not mean ignoring the past or neglecting the future. It means integrating these aspects of time into our current experience in a balanced way. We acknowledge our memories and plans without letting them overshadow the present moment. This integration allows us to draw wisdom from our past and set intentions for our future, all while remaining grounded in the now.

As we navigate our daily lives, we can remind ourselves that the present is where life unfolds. It is the canvas upon which we paint our experiences, the stage upon which we perform our actions. By committing to being present, we honor the gift of time and the opportunity to live fully. We become more aware, more compassionate, and more engaged with the world around us.

Ultimately, the practice of presence is a journey, one that requires patience and persistence. It is an ongoing process of returning to the now, again and again, despite the distractions and demands that may arise. Yet, in this journey, we discover the profound beauty of existence—a beauty that is available to us in every moment, if only we choose to see it.

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Summary

We explore the power of being fully present in the moment. Embracing the now brings clarity and joy. It allows us to live more deeply and meaningfully.

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Glossarium

Presence: The state of being fully engaged with the current moment, free from distractions of past and future.

Mindfulness: A practice that involves focusing on the present moment, often through meditation or deep breathing.

Temporal Integration: The balanced acknowledgment of past memories and future plans within the context of the present moment.

Moment Canvas: The present moment as a space where experiences are created and lived.

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Quote

“The present moment is the canvas upon which we paint the masterpiece of our lives.” – Space Monkey

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We sit under the tree, the world still. The past fades like whispers, the future dissolves like mist. Here, now, life pulses vividly. Every leaf, every breath, a testament to presence. We embrace simplicity, shedding the weight of time. Moments stretch into eternity, filled with color and light. We breathe, we see, we feel. Time is now, always. We are present. We are the moment. We are Space Monkey.