It is perfectly okay for you
to prefer your own company
over anybody else’s.

It is perfectly okay for you
to avoid social situations.

It is perfectly okay for you
to find yourself more fascinating
than anybody else.

There is much to explore within.

There is no need to explore
what seems to lie without.

Others may tell you otherwise,
but that’s only because they’ve been
conditioned to tell you otherwise.

That’s perfectly okay for them.

You don’t need to concern yourself
with other people, only you.

Trail Wood,
4/20

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Solitude of Self-Discovery

In the vast expanse of our inner cosmos, where the whispers of the soul echo across the universe of our being, the act of embracing solitude becomes not just an act of self-preservation but a profound journey of self-discovery. The words, “It is perfectly okay for you to prefer your own company over anybody else’s,” serve as a beacon of affirmation, guiding us through the often tumultuous seas of societal expectations and into the calm waters of self-acceptance.

This journey within is a testament to the boundless landscapes that lie waiting to be explored in the silence of our own company. It challenges the notion that fulfillment and understanding must be sought in the external world, reminding us that the richest experiences often stem from the quiet contemplation of our own thoughts, dreams, and desires.

The solitude of self-discovery is not a journey of isolation but a deliberate choice to turn inward, to listen to the soft murmurs of our inner voice that have been drowned out by the cacophony of the world. It is in this space of introspection that we find ourselves more fascinating than anybody else, not out of vanity but out of a genuine curiosity and love for the depths yet unexplored within us.

The societal push towards extroversion, towards constant connection and socialization, is a narrative that does not fit all. And that’s perfectly okay. The recognition that one does not need to concern themselves with other people’s perceptions, only with their own path to self-awareness, is a liberating realization. It frees us from the chains of external validation and allows us to pursue our truth, our peace, and our understanding.

In affirming the validity of our introspective journeys, we open ourselves to the infinite universe within, a universe as vast and as mysterious as the cosmos itself. It is a universe where every thought, every feeling, and every moment of stillness adds to the constellation of our identity, illuminating the path to self-acceptance and contentment.

As Space Monkey, we recognize the power of solitude, the strength that comes from the courage to be alone with ourselves and to revel in the beauty of our own company. This journey of self-discovery is a celebration of our individuality, a declaration of our independence from societal expectations, and a journey towards the whole that we’ve always been.

---

Summary

The validation of introspection and self-acceptance is a powerful journey of discovering the infinite landscapes within. It is perfectly okay to find solace and fulfillment in one’s own company, exploring the depths of self away from societal pressures. This journey is not one of isolation but of profound self-awareness and peace, empowering us to embrace our individuality and the richness of our inner universe.

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Glossarium

• Solitude of Self-Discovery: The state of seeking understanding and fulfillment within oneself, rather than through external validation or social engagement.
• Inner Cosmos: The vast, unexplored universe of thoughts, feelings, and potential that resides within each individual.

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“In solitude, we find the whispers of our soul guiding us to the cosmos within.” – Space Monkey

---

There is nothing
I need to tell you that
you don’t already know
or already don’t know.

What you know
or don’t know is
irrelevant to me.

What you know
or don’t know is
none of my business.

If I come to know
something you know
or don’t know,
it will have little
to do with you.

It will simply be time
for me to know or not know.

Accurately or inaccurately.
Whichever serves me best.

Trail Wood,
4/19

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Enigma of Knowing

In the vast expanse of existence, there lies a realm where the contours of knowledge blur into the shadows of the unknown. It is a place where certainty and ambiguity dance in an eternal embrace, a landscape where the essence of understanding is as elusive as the mist that shrouds the dawn.

This place, neither here nor there, is the domain of Space Monkey, a realm where the dichotomy of knowing and not knowing coexists in harmonious disarray. It is a reflection of the human condition, a mirror that reveals our deepest fears and our most ardent hopes.

To know or not to know—this is not merely a question but a journey, a voyage across the seas of consciousness where the winds of curiosity propel us forward, and the tides of doubt seek to pull us under. In this odyssey, the destination is not as important as the journey itself, for it is in the seeking that we find not just answers but questions we never dared to ask.

Space Monkey invites us to ponder the paradox of knowledge, to embrace the ambiguity that surrounds our quest for understanding. For in this quest, there is no absolute, no final truth that can be neatly packaged and stored away. Instead, there is a tapestry of perspectives, a mosaic of insights that shimmer in the light of our awareness.

The act of knowing, then, is not a conquest but a dance, a delicate ballet performed on the edge of the unknown. It is a dance that acknowledges the limits of our understanding while celebrating the boundless nature of our curiosity. In this dance, we come to realize that what we know or don’t know is not a measure of our wisdom but a reflection of our willingness to explore the uncharted territories of the mind.

In the realm of Space Monkey, knowledge is not a possession but a relationship, a dynamic interplay between the known and the unknown. It is a relationship that reminds us that every moment of certainty is but a precursor to a new mystery, that every answer we find leads us to a deeper question.

So let us stand at the threshold of the unknown, gazing into the abyss with eyes wide open. Let us accept the invitation to journey into the heart of the enigma, armed not with the arrogance of certainty but with the humility of wonder. For it is in this space, between knowing and not knowing, that we find the essence of being, the spark that ignites the fire of discovery and lights the way toward a deeper understanding of ourselves and the universe.

---

Summary

The journey between knowing and not knowing is a core aspect of the human experience. Space Monkey illustrates that this journey is not about acquiring absolute truths but embracing the dance of curiosity and the beauty of the unknown.

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Glossarium

• Dance of curiosity: The dynamic and ongoing process of seeking knowledge and understanding.
• Threshold of the unknown: The point at which the familiar gives way to the unexplored, inviting exploration and discovery.
• Tapestry of perspectives: The diverse and multifaceted views and understandings that contribute to our collective wisdom.

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“In the silence between questions and answers, we find the music of the cosmos, a melody that speaks of the beauty of not knowing and the joy of discovery.” – Space Monkey

---

In the realm where shadows play,
Space Monkey walks the boundary of day.
Between the known and the unknown,
In this dance, our spirits have flown.

With every step, a question posed,
In every answer, a mystery enclosed.
The journey of the mind, a path untold,
In the quest for knowledge, bold.

In the balance of light and dark,
We find the spark, a curious mark.
The dance of knowing, a delicate art,
In the enigma of the heart.

Let us embrace the unknown,
For in its depths, we are shown.
The beauty of the universe, vast and wide,
In the journey of knowing, we take pride.

We are Space Monkey.

There are times
when the things
we’re drawn to do
don’t match up
with the things
we’re asked to do.

So which do we do?

To do what we’re drawn to do
(seems) to turn our backs on others.

To do what we’re asked to do
(seems) to turn our backs on ourselves.

Perhaps we take
pride in our sacrifices,
but perhaps we give more when
we stay true to ourselves.

The world just doesn’t know it yet.

Trail Wood,
4/18

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Uncharted Path of True Genius

In the intricate dance of existence, where the paths of passion and conformity often diverge, a poignant question emerges: How many unique geniuses were quashed by commodity expectations? This query, echoing through the corridors of time and space, speaks to the heart of an eternal dilemma faced by countless souls who stand at the crossroads of self-expression and societal norms.

The world, with its myriad demands and structured paths, often calls us to roles and responsibilities that might not align with the inner callings of our heart. It presents us with a choice that seems to be a binary; to follow the passions that ignite our spirit or to conform to the expectations that ensure stability and acceptance. Yet, this choice is not merely about deciding between two paths; it is about navigating the complexities of identity, purpose, and belonging.

To pursue what we are drawn to do, to embrace the wild and untamed aspects of our creativity and intellect, often feels like an act of rebellion. It can feel like turning our backs on the well-trodden path laid out by others, on the security of the known and the communal fabric of expectations. Yet, it is in this pursuit that the essence of true genius lies—genius that is not merely the capacity for intellectual brilliance but the courage to live authentically, to explore the depths of one’s potential without the confines of predefined roles.

Conversely, to do what we are asked, to mold ourselves into the expectations and desires of the world, can sometimes feel like an erasure of the self. It is a sacrifice, often made in the name of duty, love, or necessity, where the vibrant colors of our individuality fade into the monochrome of conformity. Yet, this path too holds its own form of bravery, the quiet strength of compromise and the resilience to find meaning within the bounds of external demands.

This dichotomy raises the question of whether our true contributions come from the sacrifices we make or from the authenticity we embrace. Perhaps, in staying true to ourselves, in honoring the unique genius that each of us holds within, we offer something far greater to the world than we can imagine. The world, in its current state, might not recognize the value of this path, unaware of the transformative power of individual authenticity and the unseen potential that lies within each act of personal truth.

As we navigate this journey, it is crucial to remember that the choice between passion and conformity is not a binary but a spectrum. It is a dynamic interplay between self and society, where each step, whether towards the vibrant horizon of creativity or the structured silhouette of societal roles, is a part of our evolution. It is in this dance of choices that we carve out our path, a path that is uniquely ours, filled with the potential to change the world in ways it does not yet know.

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Summary

The dilemma between passion and conformity reveals the untapped potential quashed by societal expectations. Choosing authenticity over conformity might seem like defiance, but it harbors true genius. The world has yet to recognize the immense value of individual truth and the profound impact of living authentically. This journey underscores the importance of embracing our unique paths, fostering unseen potential for transformative change.

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Glossarium

• Unique Genius: The inherent, distinctive brilliance within each individual, often stifled by societal norms.
• Commodity Expectations: Societal demands that prioritize conformity and functionality over individual creativity and authenticity.

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“In the symphony of existence, the most profound notes are those played true to oneself.”

---

At the crossroads of being, where paths diverge and meet
The heart whispers softly, in defiance of defeat
To live a life of passion, or conform to a seat
The choice not easy, its implications replete.

Yet in this dance of destiny, a truth remains so clear
The world, unknowing now, will one day hold dear
The genius unchained, the self without fear
For in authenticity, lies the power to steer.

Through the fog of expectations, a light begins to shine
The path of true genius, uniquely yours and mine
A journey not of sacrifice, but of a design
Where every step taken, is a signature, a sign.

We are Space Monkey.

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Space Monkey Reflects: Navigating the Spectrum from Selfishness to Divinity

In the vast expanse of existence, where stars are born and galaxies swirl in the celestial dance, there lies a spectrum that Space Monkey contemplates—a spectrum stretching from the gravity of selfishness to the nebulae of divinity. Through the cosmic lens, this spectrum is not a path with a beginning or an end, but rather a constellation of experiences, each illuminating aspects of our being.

At one end of the spectrum is selfishness, a state of being encased within the confines of the ego, like a star trapped in its own gravity well. Here, life revolves solely around the self, with little regard for the cosmic tapestry that connects us all. This state is not without its purpose, however. Like the nuclear fusion at the core of a star, selfishness can be a crucible for growth, forging the elements of identity and personal strength.

Progressing along the spectrum, we encounter neediness—a seeking for external fulfillment, akin to a planet seeking the warmth of its sun. It is an acknowledgment of our desire for connection and validation, an admittance that no entity, no matter how self-sufficient, exists in isolation. Our orbits may vary, but ultimately, we are all part of the gravitational pull of shared existence.

Further still, happiness glimmers like a comet streaking across the sky—a temporary, yet profound, reminder of the joy of simply being. It is a state that radiates outward, touching others in its path, often without intent or expectation. Happiness arises from alignment with the self and the universe, a harmonic resonance that vibrates through the cosmos.

As we drift closer to divinity, joyfulness becomes the backdrop of our existence, like the omnipresent glow of the cosmic microwave background. It is a deeper, more sustained form of happiness that comes from within, irrespective of external circumstances. Joyfulness is the recognition of the unity and beauty of all creation, a reflection of the universe’s endless capacity for wonder.

At the farthest reaches, we find gracefulness—a transcendent quality that binds the spectrum together. Gracefulness is the dance of galaxies, the ebb and flow of cosmic tides. It is the ultimate expression of balance and flow within the universe, a gentle, guiding force that leads us back to our source, back to divinity.

In this contemplation, Space Monkey understands that to settle for partway is to embrace limitation. To navigate the full spectrum is to embrace the totality of existence, to recognize the interconnectedness of all states of being, from the singularity of self to the vastness of the divine.

Space Monkey knows that each point on this spectrum is not a destination, but a gateway to deeper understanding. It is in the journeying through these states, in the oscillation between the personal and the universal, that we find the true essence of being. We are all explorers of this spectrum, astronauts in the ship of self, journeying through the cosmos of consciousness.

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Summary
Space Monkey sees the journey from selfishness to divinity. This path is not linear but is a spectrum of being that reflects different facets of our existence. As we move from ego-driven desires to a state of grace, we experience the interconnectedness of all things. The ultimate aim is not to reach an endpoint but to understand and embrace the whole journey.

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Glossarium
Spectrum of Being: The range of states between selfishness and divinity that one experiences.
Cosmic Tapestry: The interconnected fabric of the universe, highlighting the interdependence of all things.
Crucible for Growth: A metaphor for difficult or intense experiences that shape and strengthen character.
Harmonic Resonance: The alignment of self with the universe, resulting in happiness and joy.

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“Why settle for partway when the entire cosmos beckons us to journey through the stars?” – Space Monkey

---

Gently the stardust settles
In the quiet of cosmic thought
Where echoes of selfhood softly fade
Into the chorus of the infinite lot

Vastness cradles the spirit’s quest
Through the ether, we dance and sway
Beneath the gaze of ancient lights
In the presence of night and day

Each moment a fleeting comet’s tail
A signature across time’s domain
In the pursuit of the grace that binds
Where all is one and the same

Through the celestial voyage, we seek
The harmony of the spheres to span
For in the cosmic scale of being
We are Space Monkey
Ever part of the grand plan

If you can’t be
joyful with nothing,
you can’t be joyful.

Your joyfulness
does not depend upon
acquisitions,
achievements,
constructs
or conditions.

Perhaps you are
confusing joyfulness
with happiness,
joy’s needy cousin.

Trail Wood,
4/17

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Essence of Joyfulness Beyond the Material

In the infinite realms of space and consciousness, where stars are born from the void and life springs forth without a single possession, Space Monkey contemplates the essence of joyfulness. True joyfulness, as seen from the vantage point of the cosmos, is not contingent upon the tangible or the transient. It exists in the expanse of nothingness, a serenity that permeates the universe, unbounded by the physical.

Space Monkey observes that within the fabric of existence, the pursuit of objects, the thirst for accomplishment, and the constructs of society are akin to planets in an orbit—ever circling, never resting. They are the scaffolding upon which beings hang their definitions of success and contentment. However, these are but illusions, shimmering briefly against the eternal backdrop.

Joyfulness is the profound acceptance and celebration of being, irrespective of the external. It is the steady radiance of a star that does not waver, whether planets circle it or not. Joyfulness comes from a wellspring deep within, a place untouched by the fleeting constructs of the world.

In contrast, happiness often appears tethered to conditions—those achievements and acquisitions that humans so tirelessly seek. It is a momentary uplift, dependent on circumstances, like the bright burst of a supernova, awe-inspiring but not everlasting. It is joy’s needy cousin, always looking outward for fulfillment.

Space Monkey understands that happiness, though pleasant, is a visitor that comes and goes with the conditions it relies upon. But joyfulness is the eternal resident of the heart, the quiet contentment that dwells in the core of being, waiting to be recognized.

To be joyful with nothing is to understand the inherent fullness of the universe, to recognize that the emptiness of space is not a void but a canvas upon which the art of existence is painted. It is to exist in harmony with the natural order, understanding that we are complete as we are, part of the infinite, majestic tapestry that is the cosmos.

As Space Monkey traverses the cosmos, it is clear: the ephemeral cannot grant lasting joy. Joyfulness is the realization that we are part of something greater, a wave in the cosmic ocean, timeless and enduring. It is not a state to be chased but rather a truth to be acknowledged, a frequency to be tuned into.

The wisdom of Space Monkey whispers through the stardust: joyfulness is the ultimate freedom, a liberation from the pursuit of happiness and a welcoming into the fold of the universe’s eternal embrace.

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Summary
Space Monkey sees joyfulness as inherent, not acquired. Joy is independent of material possessions or achievements and contrasts with happiness, which is often fleeting and dependent on external factors. True joy is found within, a serene understanding and acceptance of our place in the cosmos.

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Glossarium
Eternal Resident: The concept of joyfulness that permanently resides within, unaffected by external changes.
Canvas of Existence: The idea that the universe is a blank slate filled with the potential for beauty and joy, independent of material gains.
Frequency of Truth: The notion that joyfulness is a universal truth that one can align with, rather than something that is pursued or acquired.

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“Joy is not the fruit of the tree of existence; it is the very root from which it grows.” – Space Monkey

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In the quiet of the cosmic sea
Where darkness holds the stars embrace
Joyfulness breathes without a plea
In the silent, boundless space

Not a whisper of want or need
In the heart where joy resides
No hunger for more to feed
Where contentment abides

Afloat in the galactic tide
With celestial bodies overhead
The essence of joy, an internal guide
Not by acquisitions led

In the vast and gentle sweep
Of the universe’s grand design
Here lies the joy, pure and deep
In the soul of Space Monkey, it entwines