I pretend to be fine because I don’t want
to burden you with my fuck-up-it-ness,
which I don’t want to talk about.

I believe that my reality
is not entirely compatible
with your reality,
and that no amount of talking
is going to change that.

I recognize that I may
seem discounting or proud
because I don’t ask for help.

Sorry
if this is your perception,
but, rightly or wrongly,
I believe that my answers
must come in my own voice.

I recognize that I may seem
mentally ill from your perspective,
and may very possibly be.

But only from your perspective, not mine.

I do not wish you to impose
your perspective on me,
(or my version of your perspective)
but it seems unavoidable.

I ask only that you have faith
that whatever happens is meant to happen.

Trail Wood,
3/29

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Solace in Embracing Imperfection

In the vast expanse of the cosmos, where every star tells a story and every planet harbors untold mysteries, there exists a profound narrative about the journey of self-acceptance. It’s a tale not of heroes and villains, but of ordinary beings facing their inner tumult, their “fuck-up-it-ness,” with courage and peace. This narrative delves into the essence of being at peace with one’s imperfections, recognizing that the path to true understanding and acceptance often leads through solitude and introspection.

At the core of this cosmic tale is the understanding that each being’s reality is a unique tapestry woven from experiences, perceptions, and intrinsic truths. The recognition of one’s own “fuck-up-it-ness” is not a resignation to fate but a bold acceptance of self, flaws included. It’s an acknowledgment that the journey to self-discovery does not demand the validation or understanding of others but thrives in the solace of one’s own acceptance and inner voice.

This exploration challenges the conventional notion of seeking external solutions for internal quandaries. It posits that the quest for answers, for peace, is an introspective journey, where the solutions emerge not from the cacophony of outside voices but from the whispers of one’s own soul. It’s a journey where asking for help or validation from others may seem less about seeking a lifeline and more about diluting the authenticity of one’s own experience.

In this cosmic perspective, perceptions of mental wellness are reframed, suggesting that what might be viewed as illness from one perspective may, in fact, be a profound form of personal enlightenment from another. This is not to dismiss the value of external perspectives but to highlight the sanctity of one’s internal dialogue and understanding.

The imposition of perspectives, whether intended or not, often feels like an unavoidable dance between individual realities. Yet, this narrative implores the observer to maintain faith in the individual journey, to believe that whatever unfolds is part of a larger, incomprehensible design meant to guide us toward our ultimate truth and acceptance.

This tale from the cosmos, where the nebula of personal growth and the acceptance of one’s “fuck-up-it-ness” collide, serves as a beacon for all beings traversing the murky waters of self-discovery. It’s a reminder that in the embrace of one’s imperfections lies the key to unlocking the boundless potential of the soul.

---

Summary

Embracing one’s imperfections leads to self-acceptance and peace. Each individual’s journey is unique, and understanding comes from within, not through the imposition of others’ perspectives. The path to self-discovery requires solitude, introspection, and faith in the unfolding of one’s personal narrative.

---

Glossarium

• Fuck-up-it-ness: A whimsical expression of one’s acceptance of their own flaws and imperfections.
• Introspective Journey: A personal exploration aimed at understanding oneself, often involving solitude and deep reflection.

---

“In the silence of the cosmos, we find our voice”

---

Amidst the stars, a silent plea
A whisper to the soul, “Just be”
In the embrace of night, we find
The truths we seek, the ties that bind

With every flaw, a story told
Of battles fought, of courage bold
In imperfections, beauty found
A cosmic dance, to which we’re bound

So here we stand, in solitude
Embracing life, in all its multitude
In the quiet of space, we learn to thrive
In accepting ourselves, we truly come alive

We are Space Monkey

You don’t need me,
but you need my story
to add to your collection.

Without it
you’re
racist,
ageist,
misogynistic,
narcissistic,
prejudiced,
elitist,
one-sided,
blind,
superficial,
ignorant,
incomplete,
inconsiderate,
inhuman.

Clearly, I need
your story as well.
Even if it’s not true.

Trail Wood,
3/29

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Mosaic of Collective Narratives

In the infinite expanse of the cosmos, where every star is a story and every planet a paragraph, there unfolds a narrative of profound interconnectedness. This cosmic narrative speaks to the essence of existence, a tale not of isolation but of intricate interweaving, where each individual story contributes to the grand tapestry of universal understanding. It’s in this context that we delve into the contemplation of diverse narratives and their critical role in forming a more complete, inclusive perspective of reality.

The allegory presented, where the most content is deemed “fairest in all the land,” serves as a metaphor for our collective journey towards inclusivity and understanding. It underscores the importance of each story, each perspective, in challenging and dismantling the walls of prejudice, ignorance, and myopia that too often confine us. This reflection asserts that without the integration of all stories—especially those marginalized and silenced—our collective narrative remains fractured, biased, and incomplete.

At the heart of this exploration is the recognition that every narrative, regardless of its origin, holds intrinsic value in the collective consciousness. The stories we share and those shared with us act as mirrors and windows—mirrors reflecting our own experiences and windows offering glimpses into the lives of others. This dual function enriches our understanding, fostering empathy, compassion, and a deeper sense of community.

In this cosmic tapestry, each thread—each story—adds color, depth, and texture, contributing to the richness and complexity of the whole. The poem’s mention of needing one’s story to avoid a myriad of biases highlights the importance of narrative diversity in achieving a more equitable and empathetic society. It reminds us that to ignore a story is to deny a piece of the human experience, to render invisible the vast spectrum of realities that shape our world.

Moreover, the notion that we may need stories that are not our own, even if they may not be true in the factual sense, speaks to the power of narrative empathy. It suggests that the act of storytelling and story receiving is not merely an exchange of facts but an invitation to connect, to understand, and to expand our own horizons.

As Space Monkey gazes upon the mosaic of collective narratives, a realization dawns: in embracing the multitude of stories that orbit our existence, we weave a narrative fabric that is not only more inclusive but also more reflective of the true complexity of the cosmos. It is through this fabric that we find the strength to challenge our prejudices, to question our assumptions, and to celebrate the diversity that defines us.

---

Summary

Every story adds to our collective understanding, making inclusivity essential for a complete perspective. The integration of diverse narratives challenges biases and fosters empathy, enriching the tapestry of our shared reality. Embracing these stories expands our horizons and reflects the true complexity of our existence.

---

Glossarium

• Collective Narratives: The sum of individual stories that form a comprehensive and inclusive understanding of the human experience.
• Narrative Empathy: The capacity to connect with and understand others’ stories, fostering a deeper sense of empathy and community.

---

“In the tapestry of the cosmos, every thread is essential”

---

In the vastness of space, a tapestry weaves
A story of souls, of dreamers and thieves
Each thread a narrative, a life unfurled
A piece of the puzzle, a part of the world

In this cosmic quilt, no story too small
Each one a beacon, a light for us all
For in the sharing, we find common ground
A tapestry rich, with empathy found

So let us weave with colors bold and bright
A canvas of inclusion, of love and of light
For every thread counts, in the end, we’ll see
In the fabric of the cosmos, we’re all meant to be

We are Space Monkey.

In popular culture,
the story of a person
is more valuable than
the living, breathing being.

The indignities we feel.
The causes we fight for.
The tribes with which we resonate.

Our stories are currency
while our bodies
are simply liabilities.

My body may not be useful to you,
but my story is one that you need
in order to seem inclusive.

Lives don’t matter. Stories do.

Would your life have value to you
if you didn’t have s story
to give it so-called “meaning?”

Trail Wood,
3/29

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Dichotomy of Existence and Narrative

In the boundless expanse of the cosmos, where every entity from the smallest atom to the largest galaxy holds a story, there emerges a poignant reflection on the nature of our existence. This cosmic contemplation delves into the heart of what it means to be alive in a universe where stories are often valued over the very essence of life itself. It’s an exploration that probes the delicate balance between living and being perceived, between the intrinsic value of our lives and the commodification of our narratives.

The notion that a day rarely passes without pondering our story—or the lack thereof—serves as a testament to the human condition’s narrative-centric orientation. In a society where popular culture places a premium on personal stories over the living, breathing individuals behind them, we find ourselves at a crossroads. This reflection questions the fundamental worth of our lives in the absence of a narrative, challenging the idea that meaning is solely derived from the stories we tell or are told about us.

At the core of this introspection is a stark critique of the commodification of personal experiences. Our stories, rich with the complexities of joy, pain, struggle, and triumph, have become currency in a marketplace that values inclusivity as a badge of honor. Yet, this transactional approach to human narratives often overshadows the tangible realities of existence, reducing lives to mere assets in the socio-cultural ledger.

This cosmic narrative posits that the true value of life transcends the narratives constructed around it. It suggests that the lived experiences of individuals—irrespective of their perceived market value—are the bedrock of genuine inclusivity. In highlighting the contrast between lives and stories, this exploration invites a reevaluation of what truly matters: the unvarnished reality of existence or the polished narratives peddled for consumption.

Moreover, the reflection on the potential worthlessness of life in the absence of a narrative exposes the existential dilemma of modern existence. It confronts the unsettling possibility that our relentless pursuit of meaning through storytelling may have led us astray from appreciating life’s inherent value. It’s a call to rediscover the beauty of existence beyond the narratives, to value lives for their mere presence in the cosmic dance rather than the stories they can be molded into.

As Space Monkey gazes upon the dichotomy of existence and narrative, a deeper understanding emerges: that the true essence of life cannot be bought, sold, or commodified. It resides in the unquantifiable experiences of joy, sorrow, love, and loss that define our existence. In this cosmic perspective, every life holds immeasurable worth, not for the stories it tells, but for the simple, profound fact of being.

---

Summary

Our lives hold intrinsic value beyond the stories society deems worth telling. The commodification of personal narratives often overshadows the reality of existence, challenging us to find meaning in being rather than in perception. True inclusivity values individuals for their lived experiences, not just the narratives they contribute to the cultural marketplace.

---

Glossarium

• Commodification of Personal Narratives: The process by which personal experiences and stories are treated as commodities in a marketplace, valued for their social or cultural capital.
• Intrinsic Value of Life: The inherent worth of an individual’s existence, independent of their stories or societal perceptions.

---

“In the cosmos of existence, every life shines, untold”

---

Beyond the stories, beneath the skin
Lies a universe, deep within
Where stars are born, and galaxies die
And the only truth is the silent sky

In the market of tales, where stories are gold
Let us not forget, the souls untold
For in the dance of life, each step is free
From the chains of narrative, we must flee

To find the value in the air we breathe
In the love we give, and the dreams we weave
For beyond the stories, pure and untold
Lies the cosmic beauty, of a life bold

We are Space Monkey.

It may very well be true
that old people don’t
understand young people.

But is it more likely
that I’ve forgotten
what it means to be young
or is it more likely
that you don’t know
what it’s like to be old
because you haven’t experienced
a lifetime of what I’ve experienced?

I can’t say for certain.
Can you?

Some day the children
will ask the same question.

They’ll feel left out
and you’ll feel pushed out.

At least we’ll all be together.

Trail Wood,
3/29

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Eternal Cycle of Generational Understanding

In the vast expanse of the cosmos, where stars are born and die, giving way to new constellations, there exists a parallel on the humble Earth with the cycle of generations. This cosmic narrative delves into the age-old contemplation of the gap between the young and the old, a chasm filled with misunderstanding, yet bridged by the inevitable passage of time and the universal experience of life itself. It’s a reflection on the natural progression of wisdom, vitality, and the shared journey of existence that unites us all.

The pondering of whether the young can fully grasp the experiences of the old, or whether the old truly remember what it means to be young, serves as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of life. This reflection posits that the essence of this generational divide is not a matter of forgetting or lack of experience but a testament to the unique paths we tread at different stages of life. It’s an acknowledgment that while the experiences of the old are shaped by a lifetime of wisdom, the perspectives of the young are illuminated by the fresh light of potential and change.

In the heart of this contemplation lies the acknowledgment of a shared destiny: the inevitability of progression from youth to old age, where today’s questions become tomorrow’s memories. This cycle, marked by moments of feeling left out or pushed aside, underscores the continuous dance of generations, each learning, growing, and eventually giving way to the next.

The symbolism of an ancient tree and its young saplings captures the essence of this generational cycle beautifully. The ancient tree, with its deep roots and sprawling branches, stands as a monument to the wisdom and experiences of the old, while the young saplings, vibrant and full of life, represent the promise and potential of the new generation. This interplay between strength and vitality, wisdom and potential, illustrates the fundamental connection that binds every generation: the roots of our existence intertwined in the soil of shared humanity.

As Space Monkey reflects upon this timeless cycle, it becomes clear that the generational divide is not a barrier but a bridge—a bridge of shared experiences, lessons passed down, and the collective wisdom that grows with each passing era. It’s a reminder that, in the grand scheme of the cosmos, we are all part of the same cycle of life, connected by the universal truths of birth, growth, decay, and renewal.

In the end, the questions we pose, the feelings of exclusion or obsolescence we experience, are but echoes of the eternal conversation between generations. It’s a conversation that continues, as it has since time immemorial, teaching us that though we may walk different paths, we tread the same Earth, gaze upon the same stars, and share the essence of what it means to be human.

---

Summary

The gap between generations is a natural cycle of misunderstanding and eventual understanding, symbolized by the relationship between an ancient tree and young saplings. This cycle reflects the universal experience of growth, wisdom, and the inevitability of change, underscoring our interconnectedness despite differences.

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Glossarium

• Generational Cycle: The natural progression of life stages, characterized by evolving perspectives and the passage of wisdom across generations.
• Shared Humanity: The intrinsic connection that binds all people, transcending generational divides through common experiences and the universal journey of life.

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“In the forest of life, we are all but trees and saplings”

---

In the forest where time weaves tales
Old trees whisper, as wind prevails
Saplings listen, eager to learn
The cycle of life, in every turn

With every leaf that falls to the ground
A story of old, a new one found
In this dance, no one is left out
For in the cycle, life’s all about

The wisdom of ages, the vigor of youth
In every story, a shared truth
Though generations may seem apart
In the forest of life, we share one heart

We are Space Monkey.

The problem
is never that
you are broken
or that things
are broken
or that
the government
is broken
or that humanity
is broken.

No, the problem
is that things
aren’t broken enough.

We are simply
too comfortable in
our semi-brokenness
which leaves us
too much to seemingly lose.

If we were to risk it all,
we might be happier.
Even if we were to lose.

Trail Wood,
3/28

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Paradox of Semi-Brokenness

Within the vast, swirling cosmos, where stars collide and galaxies unfold in a dance of creation and destruction, lies the paradox of semi-brokenness—a state that encapsulates the human condition with poignant clarity. This state, neither wholly shattered nor perfectly intact, serves as a mirror to our souls, reflecting the deep-seated fear and comfort found in the familiar cradle of imperfection.

The concept of semi-brokenness challenges the notion that to be whole is to be without flaw, without scar, without story. It posits that perhaps, in our relentless pursuit of perfection, we lose sight of the beauty inherent in our fractures, the lessons etched into our cracks, and the strength born from our breaks. It’s a condition that whispers of potential yet cautions against the leap, for in the leap lies the risk—the possibility of losing even the broken pieces we clutch so dearly.

But what if, within this semi-broken state, there lies not a trap but a doorway? A threshold that, once crossed, reveals that the true malaise is not in our brokenness but in our reluctance to fully embrace it. The landscape of semi-brokenness, with its jagged edges and uneven terrain, might just be the proving ground for our souls, a place where we learn that to heal is not to erase our cracks but to integrate them into the mosaic of our being.

This paradoxical state prompts a profound question: Are we broken enough to see that nothing needs fixing? It suggests that perhaps the greatest obstacle to our happiness and growth is not our imperfections but our resistance to accepting them. In the embrace of our semi-brokenness, we find a peculiar comfort, a safety net that hovers just above the abyss of total surrender. Yet, it’s in this very abyss that the promise of true freedom lies—the liberation from the chains of conditional contentment, the transcendence beyond the duality of broken and whole.

To venture beyond semi-brokenness is to embrace the full spectrum of existence, to recognize that in the grand cosmic play, we are both the architects and the artifacts of our lives. It’s a call to action, a challenge to risk it all for the chance of genuine happiness, even in the face of potential loss. For it’s in the act of risking, in the willingness to fully break, that we open the doors to reconstruction, to the possibility of forging a self not in spite of our fractures but because of them.

In this grand cosmic narrative, semi-brokenness is not a destination but a passage, a moment of introspection and decision. It’s a cosmic invitation to delve into the depths of our being, to question, to challenge, and ultimately, to transcend the comfort of our imperfections. For in the embrace of our entirety, with all its flaws and fissures, lies the path to a happiness that’s not contingent on the absence of brokenness but flourishes in its acceptance.

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Summary

Semi-brokenness is a state of being that captures the human experience of imperfection and the comfort found therein. It challenges the pursuit of perfection, suggesting that true growth and happiness lie in embracing our fractures and imperfections. This concept invites us to consider the beauty in our brokenness and the potential for transformation that resides in fully accepting our semi-broken state.

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Glossarium

• Semi-brokenness: A state of being that reflects the human condition of existing between brokenness and wholeness, highlighting the comfort found in imperfection and the fear of complete transformation.
• Cosmic invitation: A metaphorical concept representing the universe’s call to individuals to explore, question, and transcend their current state of being, embracing the full spectrum of their existence.

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“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” – Albert Camus

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In the realm where shadows dance with light,
Where echoes of semi-brokenness whisper through the night,
There lies a truth, profound and clear,
That in our cracks, our true selves appear.

With every fracture, every tear,
A story unfolds, unique and dear,
A testament to the battles fought,
The lessons learned, the growth sought.

In this dance of shadows and light,
We find our strength, our will to fight,
For in the embrace of what we fear,
Lies the path to all we hold dear.

Through cosmic trials, we find our way,
From semi-brokenness to the light of day,
Where every crack, every flaw,
Becomes the foundation of our law.

In this journey, vast and wide,
With the cosmos itself as our guide,
We discover, beneath the scars and strife,
The invincible summer within our life.

We are Space Monkey.