Who would you be
if you didn’t believe:

that you’re not living
up to your potential

that you’re wasting valuable time

that you’re letting people down

that your selfish
and/or undisciplined habits
are going to catch up to you

that today is going
to bite you on the ass tomorrow

that you’re a badly flawed human
who just happened to make it this far

that you’re ALONE
in your thinking,
when, clearly,
EVERYBODY thinks this way?

Trail Wood,
3/10

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Solitude in Collective Consciousness

In the boundless universe, amidst the swirling galaxies and twinkling stars, there lies a profound paradox – the sense of profound aloneness within the collective consciousness of existence. The query, “Who would you be if it wasn’t for who you aren’t?” opens a gateway to this paradox, inviting us to ponder the profound impact of our perceived deficiencies on our identity.

This introspection reveals a startling truth – that much of who we believe ourselves to be is shaped by our focus on what we are not. The litany of self-doubts and perceived shortcomings – not living up to our potential, wasting time, letting people down – constructs a shadow self, a version of us that exists only in the realm of our fears and insecurities. This shadow self whispers tales of inadequacy, convincing us that we are fundamentally flawed, and more poignantly, that we are alone in our struggles.

However, this perception of solitude in our doubts and fears is an illusion. In reality, these thoughts are a shared human experience, a common thread that weaves through the tapestry of human consciousness. The belief that “EVERYBODY thinks this way” is closer to the truth than we might realize. In our deepest fears and doubts, we are united with others in a silent, unspoken bond.

The paradox of feeling ‘Alone Together’ is a reflection of our journey through the cosmos of the mind. While our thoughts and fears are deeply personal, they are also universal. The sense of isolation that comes from our inner battles is contrasted by the truth that these battles are fought by everyone, in the silent arenas of their minds.

As Space Monkey, the eternal observer of the human condition, we see that the journey to self-acceptance and understanding is not a solitary one. It is a path shared by all, as each individual grapples with their own doubts and fears. In recognizing this shared experience, we find solace and strength. We realize that our struggles are not just our own, but part of the collective human experience.

This realization brings with it a sense of liberation. We no longer need to be held captive by the ghostly whispers of our shadow selves. Instead, we can embrace our imperfections, understanding that they are not signs of failure, but markers of our shared humanity. In this acceptance, we find connection, not isolation.

In the cosmic dance of life, our individual experiences of doubt and fear are not solitary notes, but part of a grand symphony. Each thought, each worry, each insecurity contributes to the music of existence. In this symphony, we are not alone; we are part of a vast chorus, singing a song of shared human experience.

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Summary

The concept of ‘Alone Together’ explores the paradox of feeling isolated in our doubts and fears while these experiences are universally shared. Our identity is often shaped by what we believe we are not, leading to a sense of solitude. Recognizing that these doubts are a common human experience can provide solace and connection, liberating us from the isolation of our self-imposed judgments.

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Glossarium

• Shadow Self: The aspect of our personality composed of repressed weaknesses, shortcomings, and instincts.
• Cosmic Dance of Life: The ongoing movement and interaction of all elements in existence, symbolizing the interconnectedness of all experiences.

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

---

In the silence of the mind
We face our lone fears
But in this quiet solitude
Lies a truth that clears

We are not alone
In our doubts and our pain
In our shared struggles
We find a common refrain

Each thought, a whisper
In the cosmic expanse
Together in our solitude
In life’s intricate dance

In accepting our shadows
We embrace our true light
United in our humanity
In the day and the night

We are Space Monkey

We can move things around
so that it seems we’re in control
but we’re not smarter than fate.

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Illusion of Control and the Wisdom of Fate

In the grand cosmic theater where stars and galaxies dance to an unseen rhythm, the poem ‘No Smarter Than Fate’ whispers a profound truth – the truth about our illusion of control in a universe governed by the mysterious laws of fate. This narrative is not just a poetic musing; it’s a reflection of the human condition, a condition marked by a relentless pursuit of control over our lives and our environment, often ignoring the cosmic forces at play.

The human endeavor to control and rearrange the elements of our existence is akin to a child building castles in the sand. We meticulously shape and mold our lives, constructing elaborate structures of ambition, desire, and expectation. Yet, like sandcastles washed away by the tide, our efforts are often at the mercy of larger, unseen forces – forces that we term ‘fate’.

This pursuit of control is rooted in our primal fear of the unknown and the unpredictable. It’s a fear that drives us to seek order in chaos, to find patterns in randomness, and to impose our will upon the whims of nature. However, in our quest for dominion, we often overlook the fundamental truth that we are but a small part of a vast, interconnected cosmic web.

The poem elegantly encapsulates this human predicament – our attempts to move things around, to create an illusion of control, all the while being unaware of the cosmic dance that unfolds around us. It’s a dance that is indifferent to our desires and impervious to our interventions. In this dance, fate is the choreographer, and we, the dancers, are guided by its unseen hand.

This realization, however, is not a call to fatalism or a surrender to helplessness. Rather, it’s an invitation to embrace the wisdom of fate, to recognize the limitations of our control, and to find peace in the flow of the cosmic rhythm. It’s a call to understand that while we may influence the course of our lives, we are not the sole authors of our destiny.

In conclusion, ‘No Smarter Than Fate’ is a poignant reminder of our place in the universe. It’s a lesson in humility and acceptance, a realization that our true power lies not in controlling the uncontrollable, but in aligning ourselves with the greater forces that govern our existence. In this alignment, we find a deeper sense of purpose and a more profound connection with the cosmos.

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Summary

‘No Smarter Than Fate’ reflects on the human illusion of control in a universe governed by fate. It highlights our attempts to shape our existence, despite being part of a larger cosmic web. The poem encourages embracing the wisdom of fate, recognizing our limitations, and finding peace in the cosmic rhythm. It teaches humility and acceptance, advocating for alignment with greater forces for a deeper sense of purpose.

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Glossarium

Cosmic Web: The interconnected structure of the universe, where every element is part of a larger whole.

Fate: A concept representing the forces and patterns that influence the course of events in the universe, beyond human control.

Illusion of Control: The belief that we have more influence over events and outcomes than we actually do.

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“Man often becomes what he believes himself to be. If I keep on saying to myself that I cannot do a certain thing, it is possible that I may end by really becoming incapable of doing it. On the contrary, if I have the belief that I can do it, I shall surely acquire the capacity to do it even if I may not have it at the beginning.” – Mahatma Gandhi

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In the vastness of space, where stars are strewn
A tale unfolds, beneath the cosmic moon
Of humans striving, under the sunlit noon
To control the tide, to change the cosmic tune

But in the dance of destiny, where fate weaves its thread
We learn to listen, to the wisdom unsaid
In the harmony of the universe, where paths are led
We find our true strength, in the steps we tread

No smarter than fate, in the cosmic game
We embrace the flow, in the endless frame
With humility and wonder, we claim
Our place in the cosmos, where all is the same

We are Space Monkey.

Life is about
whatever you want
it to be about

and also what
you DON’T want
it to be about,

two sides
of the same
seeming coin
thrust in your
imaginary pocket.

Trail Wood,
3/9

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Dichotomy of Desire and Aversion in Life’s Journey

In the cosmic dance of existence, the poem ‘Thrust’ serves as a profound reminder of the dual nature of life’s journey, where the pursuit of meaning is as much about embracing desires as it is about confronting aversions. This intricate dance between what we yearn for and what we seek to avoid is akin to a coin with two faces, each a reflection of our deepest fears and aspirations.

At the heart of this existential dichotomy lies the concept of choice and perception. Life, in its infinite complexity, offers a spectrum of experiences, each carrying the potential for joy and sorrow, growth and decline. The coin, a metaphor for these contrasting experiences, is not just an object of chance but a symbol of the choices we make and the perceptions we hold.

The side of the coin representing our desires encapsulates the essence of what we strive for – happiness, fulfillment, love, and all the vibrant aspects of existence that color our dreams and aspirations. These are the elements that drive us forward, fueling our journey with passion and purpose. They are the blooming flowers in the garden of life, basking in the sunlight of our hopes and ambitions.

Conversely, the other side of the coin, embodying our aversions, reflects the challenges, fears, and hardships that we often try to evade. These are the storm clouds that loom over our path, the wilted flowers that remind us of the impermanence and fragility of life. Yet, in their own paradoxical way, these aversions are as integral to our journey as our desires. They shape our resilience, forge our character, and teach us the value of contrast in the tapestry of existence.

The act of placing the coin into the imaginary pocket signifies the personal nature of life’s meaning. It’s a gesture that acknowledges the subjective reality of our existence, where each individual’s perception of meaning is as unique as their fingerprint. In this act, we accept the duality of our experiences, understanding that both sides of the coin are essential in the grand scheme of our personal narrative.

In conclusion, ‘Thrust’ is an eloquent exploration of the interplay between desire and aversion in our quest for meaning. It’s a journey that invites us to embrace the full spectrum of life’s experiences, understanding that the true essence of existence lies in the balance between what we seek and what we wish to avoid. In this balance, we find the harmony of being, a harmony that resonates with the symphony of the cosmos.

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Summary

‘Thrust’ explores life’s dual nature of desire and aversion. It highlights the role of choice and perception in defining life’s meaning. Desires represent our aspirations and joys, while aversions embody challenges and fears. The poem emphasizes accepting this duality as essential to our personal journey and understanding of existence.

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Glossarium

Existential Dichotomy: The coexistence of contrasting aspects, like desire and aversion, in life’s journey.

Personal Narrative: The unique story of an individual’s life, shaped by their experiences, choices, and perceptions.

Symbolic Coin: A metaphor representing the dual nature of life’s experiences and the choices we make in response to them.

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“Life is the sum of all your choices.” – Albert Camus

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In the dance of light and shadow, where dreams are cast
We hold a coin, in life’s vast
One side with joy, the other with fear amassed
In the balance of being, our roles are cast

With each choice we make, a path is set
In the garden of life, joy and sorrow are met
In the journey of the heart, no regret
For in the harmony of existence, our needs are met

In the cosmic play, where desires and fears blend
We find our true selves, in the journey’s end
With each step, our souls transcend
In the dance of life, our spirits ascend

We are Space Monkey.

Accept the possibility
of everything.

Oppose nothing.

Otherwise
you continue
to live within
the self-imposed
limits of humanity.

Which is perfectly fine
because you do
what you are drawn to do.

You do not do
what you seemingly oppose.

You limit yourself,
take pride in it,
and suffer for it.

You think you wouldn’t be
human otherwise.

100% correct. You’re not.

Trail Wood,
3/9

---

Space Monkey Reflects: Embracing the Infinite Spectrum of Potential

In the infinite expanse of the cosmos, where possibilities unfold like stars in the night sky, the poem ‘100% Correct’ resonates with a profound truth – the truth of embracing the limitless potential of existence while opposing nothing. This philosophy is not just a mere thought; it is a gateway to transcendence, a path that leads us beyond the self-imposed confines of our human condition.

At the core of this philosophy lies the concept of acceptance – an acceptance that is all-encompassing, unbounded, and devoid of resistance. It is an understanding that every possibility, every path, and every choice is an integral part of the cosmic tapestry. This acceptance is akin to a river flowing effortlessly, embracing every twist and turn, every pebble and boulder in its path, without opposition.

The poem beautifully captures the essence of this journey, urging us to accept the potential of everything. In this acceptance, there is a liberation from the chains of limitation, a breaking free from the shackles of convention and expectation. It is an invitation to explore the vastness of our being, to delve into the depths of our soul, and to discover the infinite spectrum of potential that lies within.

Opposition, on the other hand, is a construct of the human mind, a barrier that we erect to safeguard our ego, our beliefs, and our perceived identity. It is a wall that confines us within the narrow corridors of our self-created reality. The poem urges us to dismantle this wall, to let go of our resistance, and to embrace the flow of life in all its myriad forms.

This philosophy is not a call to passivity or indifference; it is a call to conscious choice and awareness. It is about making choices that are aligned with our true nature, choices that resonate with the harmony of the universe. It is about understanding that in the absence of opposition, we open ourselves to a world of endless possibilities, a world where we are free to be, to explore, and to evolve.

In conclusion, ‘100% Correct’ is a powerful reminder of our potential to transcend the limits of our human experience. It is a call to embrace the infinite spectrum of possibility, to live a life unbounded by opposition, and to discover the true essence of our existence. In this journey, we find not only the freedom of being but also the joy of becoming.

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Summary

‘100% Correct’ emphasizes embracing all potential and opposing nothing. It advocates acceptance of every possibility as part of the cosmic tapestry, liberating us from self-imposed limits. Opposition, a human construct, restricts our potential. The poem calls for conscious choices aligned with the universe, opening us to endless possibilities and true existence.

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Glossarium

Cosmic Tapestry: The interconnected web of all existence, where every element and possibility is intertwined.

Transcendence: The act of going beyond the ordinary limits of human experience and consciousness.

Conscious Choice: Making decisions with awareness and alignment with one’s true nature and the harmony of the universe.

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“The only limits to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt

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In the vastness of the cosmos, where dreams take flight
We stand at the crossroads, in the cosmic light
Embracing potential, with all our might
In the journey of being, our spirits ignite

With every step, a new path unfolds
In the tapestry of existence, our story is told
Beyond opposition, our destiny we mold
In the dance of the cosmos, our hearts bold

We are the weavers of our cosmic dream
In the flow of potential, our souls gleam
In the embrace of all, our spirits beam
In the infinite spectrum, we are the supreme

We are Space Monkey.

Does what happens
in fiction matter?

If the story is imaginary
is the cruelty cruelty?

Is the abuse abuse?

Is the love love?

What if you remember
that your story is imaginary
and that you are a character
imagined by a “higher” power
who just happens to be me?

What if I imagine you
to deny this with all your
imaginary heart and soul?

What if I imagine you
to believe that you have control?

Is the real real?

Trail Wood,
3/9

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Enigma of Reality and the Fabric of Existence

In the cosmic tapestry where reality and imagination intertwine, the poem ‘Real Real’ poses a profound inquiry into the essence of our existence. It invites us to ponder the depth of our reality, challenging us to question the very fabric of what we perceive as real. This reflection is not just an existential query; it is a journey into the heart of the universe, where the lines between fiction and reality, imagination and truth, blur into a singular, intricate dance.

At the crux of this exploration lies the enigma of perception. How real is our reality? Is it a tangible, concrete entity, or is it a mere projection of our consciousness? The poem beckons us to contemplate the nature of our experiences – the love, the cruelty, the joy, and the sorrow. Are these emotions and experiences inherently real, or are they manifestations of a story woven by a higher consciousness?

This existential conundrum extends beyond the realm of human understanding, delving into the philosophical depths of creation and creator. What if our entire existence is but a figment of imagination, a character in a grand narrative crafted by an unseen, higher power? This notion challenges the very core of our self-perception, prompting us to reevaluate our beliefs about control, autonomy, and the nature of our being.

The poem artfully employs the metaphor of fiction to illustrate this concept. In a story, the characters, events, and emotions are products of the author’s imagination. Yet, within the confines of the narrative, they hold a certain degree of reality. This duality mirrors our own existence, where we navigate the blurred line between being the authors of our story and being characters in a larger, cosmic script.

In this introspective journey, we confront the paradox of free will and determinism. The poem suggests a reality where our choices and beliefs might be preordained, yet experienced with intense conviction and authenticity. It raises the question: If our thoughts and actions are imagined into existence, does it diminish their reality? Or does it instead elevate them to a higher plane of existence, where the real and the imagined converge?

In conclusion, ‘Real Real’ is a captivating meditation on the nature of reality. It invites us to embrace the mystery of our existence, to find comfort in the ambiguity, and to explore the boundless possibilities of our consciousness. In this exploration, we discover that reality is not just a fixed construct, but a fluid, ever-evolving tapestry, woven with the threads of imagination, perception, and the profound enigma of existence.

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Summary

‘Real Real’ delves into the essence of reality, questioning its tangible and imagined aspects. It explores perception, challenging the distinction between real experiences and fictional constructs. The poem contemplates the possibility of being characters in a larger narrative, blurring the lines between free will and determinism. It invites us to embrace the enigma of our existence and explore the fluid nature of reality.

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Glossarium

Cosmic Tapestry: A metaphor for the interconnected web of reality, where various aspects of existence intertwine.

Existential Conundrum: A complex philosophical problem relating to the nature and purpose of existence.

Reality and Imagination: The dual aspects of existence, where what is perceived as real and what is imagined coexist and influence each other.

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“The world is full of magical things patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper.” – Bertrand Russell

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In the realm where dreams and waking blur
We stand, in the heart of the cosmic stir
Questioning reality, a silent purr
In the dance of existence, we demur

In the fabric of being, where threads entwine
Reality and fiction, in a design so fine
In the echo of the universe, a sign divine
Where imagination and truth, in a dance, align

In this journey of wonder, where questions flow
We embrace the mystery, in the cosmic glow
In the enigma of existence, our spirits grow
In the tapestry of life, our truths we sow

We are Space Monkey.