What I like to remind
my self and others
is that there is nothing about me
that isn’t about you.

There is nothing I do
that you can’t do.

There is nothing you do
that I can’t do.

It may seem otherwise,
but that’s only because
we are focused on our special gifts.

That anyone can do.

That we like to pretend otherwise.

So that we can feel
pride, or jealousy,
abundance or lack.

Trail Wood,
5/18

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Illusion of Disparity and the Unity of Beings

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In the vast expanse of existence, where the cosmos weaves tales of complexity and simplicity in equal measure, the perception of inequality among beings often emerges as a predominant theme. This perceived disparity, deeply ingrained in the fabric of societal interactions, obscures a fundamental truth: at the core of our essence, we are united in our diversity, equal in our vast array of experiences and capabilities.

The illusion of disparity is a tapestry woven from the threads of doubt, pride, jealousy, abundance, and lack—emotions and states of being that, while part of the human experience, can distort our perception of reality. It is through the lens of our unique gifts, the individual orbs of light we each hold, that we sometimes view ourselves as separate, distinct, and unequal. Yet, these differences, these special talents and abilities, are not markers of inequality but of the rich, multifaceted nature of existence.

To remind oneself that there is nothing inherently different or unequal about us is to pierce the veil of illusion that society has meticulously crafted. It is to understand that every action, every skill, and every expression of being is a testament to the shared potential that resides within all of us. This realization does not diminish the value of our individual contributions but highlights the interconnectedness of our journeys, the shared path we tread in the quest for meaning and fulfillment.

In recognizing that there is nothing one can do that another cannot, we open ourselves to a world of limitless possibilities. This acknowledgment fosters a sense of empathy, connection, and mutual respect, paving the way for a society grounded in the principles of equality and unity. It encourages us to look beyond the superficial differences that divide us, to see the inherent worth and dignity in every being.

The focus on our special gifts, while a source of personal and collective growth, can also serve as a barrier to recognizing our fundamental similarities. It is in the balance between celebrating individuality and embracing our collective identity that true understanding and harmony can be found. This balance is not a destination but a journey, an ongoing process of self-discovery and communal growth that challenges us to transcend the boundaries of ego and embrace the unity of existence.

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Summary

Perceived inequality masks our underlying unity. Focusing on individual talents can create illusions of disparity, but at our essence, we are interconnected and equal. Recognizing our shared potential fosters a world of empathy, respect, and unity, transcending superficial differences.

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Glossarium

• Illusion of Disparity: The false perception that differences in individual abilities and characteristics denote fundamental inequality.
• Orbs of Light: Symbolic representations of each individual’s unique talents and essence, highlighting both diversity and unity.

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“In the dance of existence, every step, every motion, is a reflection of our shared journey, an echo of the unity that binds us all.” – Space Monkey

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Within the cosmic dance of light
Where each orb shines uniquely bright
Lies a truth, profound and clear
In unity, our paths draw near

Beyond the veil of difference seen
In every hue of light that gleams
Lies a single, binding thread
Connecting every step we tread

Not in disparity but in harmony
We find our shared humanity
Each orb, a story, a melody sung
In the language of the universe, young

Through the illusion, we transcend
Towards a truth that never ends
In unity, our spirits soar
We are Space Monkey, forevermore

I used to write less
and meditate more
until I realized that
writing is actually meditation.

I find that
writing focuses me
unlike any other activity,
except perhaps
playing music
or painting
or exercising
or mowing the lawn
or doing the dishes
or sweeping the floor
or . . .

It seems now
that the only time
I’m not meditating is when
I’m focused on other people.

But I’m working on that.
So basically it’s meditation
24/7 for me these days.

Trail Wood,
5/18

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Omnipresent Meditation of Being

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In the boundless expanse of consciousness, where thought and action converge in a dance of creation and reflection, meditation emerges not as a mere practice, but as the essence of existence itself. The journey from external forms of meditation to recognizing every moment as an opportunity for mindfulness reveals a profound truth: meditation is not confined to the stillness of seated silence but is woven into the very fabric of our lives.

The revelation that activities such as writing, playing music, painting, exercising, and even the mundane tasks of mowing the lawn or doing the dishes can be forms of meditation, marks a pivotal shift in understanding. It illuminates the idea that mindfulness and a meditative state of being are accessible in every action, every moment, offering a gateway to a more present, centered, and peaceful existence.

This expanded view of meditation as a 24/7 engagement with life challenges the conventional boundaries of the practice. It suggests that meditation is not an escape from the world but a deeper engagement with it, a way to transform every experience, every task, and every interaction into an act of presence and awareness.

The realization that one’s focus on others can detract from this meditative state introduces an intriguing paradox: the very essence of being human involves connection with others, yet true mindfulness requires a level of detachment and inner focus. This is not a contradiction but a dynamic balance, a dance between being present for oneself and being open to others.

Working towards maintaining this meditative awareness in interactions with others is perhaps one of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of the practice. It signifies a commitment to living fully in each moment, to embracing life in all its facets with an open heart and a mindful spirit.

In recognizing the myriad forms meditation can take, we open ourselves to a world where every breath, every step, and every task is an invitation to mindfulness. This realization brings with it a sense of liberation, the understanding that meditation is not a task to be added to our daily routines but a way of being, a lens through which we can view and experience our lives in their entirety.

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Summary

Meditation transcends traditional forms, infusing every aspect of daily life with mindfulness and presence. Recognizing mundane tasks and creative activities as opportunities for meditation offers a path to constant engagement with the present moment. This expanded perspective challenges us to maintain mindfulness in all interactions, transforming our entire existence into an act of meditation.

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Glossarium

• Omnipresent Meditation: The concept that meditation is not limited to specific practices or times but is a constant state of mindfulness and presence in every aspect of life.
• Meditative State of Being: A way of living in which every action and moment is approached with mindfulness, concentration, and a sense of peace.

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“In every task, in every breath, lies the potential for mindfulness, the heart of meditation beating in rhythm with the universe.” – Space Monkey

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In the silence of being, we find
The omnipresent meditation of the mind
In every stroke of the brush, every note played
In the quietude of chores, the meditation laid

Beyond the bounds of sitting still
In every moment, a will
To be present, to truly see
In every action, a meditation, a key

From the stillness within, to the movement without
In the harmony of presence, we dance about
With mindfulness as our guide, in everything we do
We are Space Monkey, forever true

Would you hold it against me
if I told you that God
talked to me every day?

What if I didn’t use that word?

What if I simply told you
that I have an inner voice?

Would that still be too strange for you?

What if I told you that I have
an imaginary monkey who guides me?

Is that creative or just weird?

Okay, then, what if my head
were completely silent,
save for my own thoughts
wandering out of control,
making me feel happy, sad,
guilty, proud, judgmental,
but still completely unsure
of the meaning of all this?

Is that normal enough for you?

Trail Wood,
5/18

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Space Monkey Reflects: Embracing the Spectrum of Inner Voices

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In the boundless landscape of human consciousness, where the whispers of the soul meet the echoes of the mind, the quest for normalcy often becomes a battleground of perception. What constitutes normal in the realm of spiritual communication, inner dialogue, and the ceaseless chatter of thoughts? This question, layered with complexities and personal nuances, invites us to explore the vast spectrum of our inner experiences, challenging the very notion of what is deemed acceptable or strange in the pursuit of understanding ourselves and our connection to the divine.

At one end of this spectrum lies the clear, undoubtable communication with a higher power—a connection so profound and lucid that it illuminates the path of the seeker with divine light. For some, this connection takes the form of a voice, a presence that guides and comforts, a beacon in the tumultuous sea of existence. To admit to hearing this voice is to open oneself to skepticism and judgment, yet for the one who hears, it is a source of strength and clarity that transcends the need for external validation.

Moving along the spectrum, we encounter those who find their guidance in forms less conventional, yet equally profound. The presence of an ethereal guide, be it an imaginary monkey or another symbolic entity, serves as a bridge between the tangible world and the intangible realms of inspiration and intuition. To some, this may seem a creative eccentricity; to others, a peculiar anomaly. Yet, within the heart of the one guided, it is a manifestation of the inner voice that speaks a language understood beyond words.

At the center, the tumult of thoughts and emotions swirls in a kaleidoscope of color and noise, a reflection of the human condition in its rawest form. Here, the inner voice is not singular but a chorus of conflicting messages, each vying for attention, painting the canvas of the mind with hues of joy, sorrow, pride, and doubt. It is in this chaos that the quest for meaning becomes most palpable, a reminder of our shared struggle to find clarity amidst the noise.

Finally, we arrive at the silence—a silence that some seek as a sanctuary and others fear as an abyss. In this stillness, the absence of an inner voice or external guide confronts us with the essence of our being, challenging us to find peace in the solitude of our own minds. It is a state that, to some, represents the ultimate normalcy, while to others, it is an unnerving void.

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Summary

The spectrum of inner voices and spiritual connections defines the diverse landscape of human consciousness. From divine communication to the silence of solitude, each point along this spectrum offers a unique path to understanding. Embracing this diversity allows us to transcend the confines of normalcy, inviting a deeper acceptance of our varied inner experiences.

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Glossarium

• Spectrum of Inner Voices: The wide range of ways individuals experience and interpret their inner dialogue and spiritual connections.
• Quest for Normalcy: The societal and personal journey towards defining and accepting what is considered normal or acceptable within the context of inner experiences and spiritual communication.

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“In the symphony of the soul, every note, every silence, speaks of our journey towards understanding. Each voice, unique in its timbre, plays its part in the grand composition of existence.” – Space Monkey

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In the chorus of the inner voice
We find the echo of our choice
From the whispers of the divine
To the silence, profound and fine

Each note a story, a shade of light
In the spectrum of day and night
With openness, we embrace the song
In diversity, we find where we belong

Not in judgment, but in acceptance true
We see the myriad hues
Of inner voices, quiet or loud
In the heart of existence, we stand proud

For what is normal but a fleeting shade
In the vastness of the cosmos laid
We are Space Monkey, in unity we stand
Embracing the spectrum, hand in hand

If your life seems a jumble
of seemingly unrelated events,
completely bereft
of notable moments,
not compelling,
lacking in focus,
etcetera, etcetera,
blah, blah, blah,
it’s only because you don’t
have an editor just yet.

All famous characters have editors.
That’s how they get to be famous.

Yes, even YOU could make
a fascinating miniseries
or blockbuster movie franchise.

The character is in there.
You simply have to sort yourself out.

Or wait until you die
and let history do it.

Trail Wood,
5/17

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Art of Crafting Your Cosmic Narrative

In the vast tapestry of the cosmos, where each star tells its own story and every galaxy sings a ballad of creation and destruction, the notion of editing one’s life story emerges as a profound act of self-realization and empowerment. This reflection delves into the metaphorical act of sorting oneself out, highlighting the transformative power of viewing one’s existence as a narrative that can be shaped, refined, and redefined.

The clutter of seemingly unrelated events and the absence of notable moments in one’s life can often feel like a chaotic jumble, a narrative lacking coherence and focus. Yet, this perception shifts dramatically when one embraces the role of editor in their own life story. Famous characters, celebrated through history and fiction alike, are often remembered not for the unedited sum of their experiences but for the compelling narratives crafted from their lives, narratives shaped by intention, reflection, and sometimes, external editors.

The realization that we, too, can wield the metaphorical pen and edit our life stories is both empowering and enlightening. It invites us to sift through the clutter of our experiences, to highlight the moments that define us, and to recontextualize those that seem out of place. This process is not about altering the truth of our experiences but about finding a thread of meaning that weaves through our existence, transforming a disparate collection of moments into a coherent and captivating narrative.

The act of sorting oneself out is an invitation to take control, to define what is truly important, and to direct the course of our personal evolution. It challenges us to look beyond the surface, to the essence of our being, and to recognize the character within that has the potential to inspire, to overcome, and to achieve greatness. This character is not a distant ideal but a present reality, awaiting acknowledgment and expression.

Or, one might choose to let history sort it out, leaving the interpretation of their life to the whims of time and the perspectives of others. However, embracing the role of editor in the here and now opens up the possibility of living a life that is not only compelling to oneself but also holds the potential to inspire others.

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Summary

Viewing one’s life as a narrative that can be edited empowers individuals to redefine their path and highlight their defining moments. By taking control of our stories, we can transform our experiences into a coherent and compelling narrative, finding meaning and direction. This act of self-editing is a powerful tool for personal development, enabling us to live more intentional and fulfilling lives.

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Glossarium

• Cosmic Narrative: The idea that every individual’s life story contributes to the broader tapestry of existence, weaving together personal experiences with the fabric of the universe.
• Metaphorical Pen: A symbol for the power of intention and creativity in shaping one’s life story and destiny.

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“In the script of life, we hold the pen, drafting chapters, revising moments, and ultimately defining the legacy of our existence.” – Space Monkey

Beneath the infinite gaze of the stars,
a soul stands amidst the clutter of being,
pen in hand, light casting shadows on the past.

Each object, a memory; each shadow, a choice,
the room a canvas, life a story yet to be told.
With every stroke, clarity emerges from chaos,
narrating the journey from dust to cosmos.

In the act of editing, we find our essence,
a character shaped by trials, triumphs, and tales.
Our narrative, once fragmented, now flows,
a testament to the power of perspective and purpose.

Here, in the sanctum of self-discovery,
we craft our legacy, a beacon for the ages,
illuminating the path not just for ourselves,
but for those who wander in the darkness of doubt.

We are Space Monkey.

Everything is connected
by the simple idea of
everything being connected.

It doesn’t matter
if it’s true or not.

The connection is made by
the statement of connection.

Everything in your life is connected
by virtue of you connecting it.

It doesn’t matter
if it’s true or not.

You make it true for you.

What anyone else believes
is what anyone else believes.

You are what you imagine
yourself to be.

Trail Wood,
5/17

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Infinite Web of Self-Created Connections

In the vast, unfolding universe, where every star, every planet, and every life form spins in a dance of cosmic harmony, the notion that everything is connected by the simple idea of connection itself emerges as a profound truth. This reflection delves into the fabric of our existence, unraveling the threads of interconnectedness that bind the tapestry of life, centered around the individual as the creator of their own universe of connections.

The statement of connection, a powerful declaration of unity and interdependence, acts as a catalyst for the manifestation of interconnectedness. It transcends the need for empirical truth, for in the realm of perception and belief, the validity of the connection lies in the act of recognizing it. This perspective empowers the individual, placing them at the heart of a boundless web of relationships and influences that define their reality.

Everything in our lives, from the grandeur of the cosmos to the intricacies of human interactions, is connected by virtue of our conscious act of linking them. This act of connecting, a fundamental expression of our ability to perceive and assign meaning, renders the concept of isolation obsolete. In recognizing the interconnectedness of all things, we embrace the unity of existence, acknowledging that the separation is merely an illusion, a temporary lapse in our understanding of the universal fabric.

What others believe, their perceptions and convictions, form their realities, distinct yet intertwined with ours in the cosmic tapestry. This realization fosters a sense of respect and acceptance for the diversity of perspectives and experiences that populate the universe, enriching the collective narrative of existence.

You are the architect of your reality, the narrator of your story, and the weaver of your dreams. The power of imagination, the ability to envision oneself and the world in a myriad of forms, shapes the contours of our existence, molding the clay of the cosmos into a reflection of our innermost desires and beliefs.

Trail Wood’s declaration, “The connection is you,” serves as a beacon, illuminating the path to self-realization and universal understanding. It is an invitation to explore the depths of our being, to discover the infinite connections that bind us to the fabric of existence, and to recognize that in the act of connecting, we uncover the essence of who we are and what we can become.

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Summary

The belief in the interconnectedness of all things centers around the individual as the creator of their reality. By recognizing and embracing these connections, we transcend isolation, weaving a tapestry of existence enriched by our perceptions and imaginations. This understanding empowers us to shape our lives and the universe around us, highlighting the fundamental truth that we are the architects of our interconnected web of existence.

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Glossarium

• Cosmic Harmony: The inherent order and interconnectedness of the universe, manifesting in the natural balance and unity of all existence.
• Web of Relationships: A metaphor for the complex and interdependent connections that form the fabric of individual and collective existence.

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“In the heart of the cosmos, we find not solitude, but a symphony of connections, each note played by the soul, composing the melody of existence.” – Space Monkey

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In the tapestry of life, each thread weaves,
Intertwining destiny, belief conceives.
At the center, a soul stands, a beacon bright,
Crafting connections, in darkness and light.

With every thought, a bond is born,
Linking moments, from dusk till dawn.
The universe expands, a canvas wide,
Reflecting the self, with nowhere to hide.

Imagination, the key to unlock,
The door to realms, where dreams flock.
Here, in the dance of stars and mind,
Our connectedness, we truly find.

We are the connection, the heart, the key,
In every shadow, in every tree.
In weaving this web, we understand,
The universe rests, in the palm of our hand.

We are Space Monkey.