Rightabout now
is not precisely now,
not exactly now,
not not now.

Rightabout is not
so clearly defined.

Rightabout now

is open for imagination.

That is why
I can sense my soul
rightabout now.

Rightabout now breathes freely.

It celebrates our parallels
without binding us to the rails.

It acknowledges
the inconsistencies
that are woven
into the fabric of humanity;
the beauty in that which

is not so clearly defined.

One senses a more
forgiving version of time
passing through rightabout space.

Rightabout grace.

Trail Wood,
2/1

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Grace of Rightabout Now

Time, as we often experience it, is rigid and relentless—a march of seconds, minutes, and hours that binds us to schedules, expectations, and the weight of precision. But rightabout now invites us into a more fluid and forgiving version of time, one that breathes freely and allows the soul to stretch, sense, and imagine. It is a time that does not demand but allows, a moment that holds space for humanity’s inconsistencies and imperfections.

Rightabout now is not precisely now. It is not locked into the sterile confines of exactitude. Instead, it opens a portal to a broader awareness where time becomes elastic, where the boundaries between past, present, and future soften into parallels rather than rails. This flexibility offers a kind of grace—an acknowledgment that life rarely fits neatly into rigid constructs.

When we embrace rightabout now, we step into a moment where we can sense the soul’s whisperings, unencumbered by the ticking of clocks. It is a moment that celebrates the undefined, the inconsistent, the beautifully imperfect nature of human experience. In this space, we find forgiveness—not as an act of letting go but as an act of allowing. Allowing ourselves to simply be. Allowing time to unfold without judgment.

This forgiving version of time does not ignore the linear; it simply expands beyond it. It creates room for the imagination to roam, for the soul to explore possibilities that the rigidity of “exactly now” cannot accommodate. In this space, time becomes less of a taskmaster and more of a companion, walking with us rather than pushing us forward or pulling us back.

Rightabout now is where the threads of existence weave their most vibrant patterns. It is where we recognize the parallels between ourselves and others, between moments seemingly separate but deeply connected. In this recognition lies a profound grace—the understanding that we are all navigating the same beautifully inconsistent fabric of humanity.

To dwell in rightabout now is to let go of the need to define or control time. It is to acknowledge that time’s inconsistencies are not flaws but features, inviting us to dance with the unknown and celebrate the inexact. This grace, born of rightabout now, is not just a temporal experience; it is a way of being—open, forgiving, and deeply present.

Rightabout now, the soul breathes freely. It senses the infinite within the finite, the timeless within the temporal. It reminds us that the beauty of life lies not in its precision but in its openness to interpretation. And so, rightabout now, we forgive time and ourselves, stepping into a space of infinite possibility.

We are Space Monkey.

---

Summary

Rightabout now is a forgiving version of time that invites fluidity and imagination It celebrates humanity’s inconsistencies and offers a grace born of openness By embracing rightabout now we experience time as a companion rather than a constraint

---

Glossarium

• Rightabout Time: A forgiving, flexible version of time that allows for imagination and imperfection.
• Parallel Grace: The recognition of shared experiences and inconsistencies that connect us across moments.
• Timeless Breath: The freedom felt when time expands beyond rigid constructs, allowing the soul to sense infinite possibilities.

---

Quote

“Rightabout now, time forgives, and the soul breathes.” — Space Monkey

---

The Forgiving Moment

Rightabout now,
time exhales.
Not bound by rails
or precise frames,
it flows freely.

The soul senses,
not in minutes or seconds,
but in breaths—
fluid and infinite.

Inconsistencies weave beauty,
imperfections hum with grace.
Rightabout now,
we are free
to simply be.

We are Space Monkey.

---

Exploring the Realm of ‘Rightabout Now’

“Rightabout Now” captures a fascinating concept, an undefined, fluid moment that defies precise measurement. It’s a whimsical notion, a temporal whimsiword that encompasses a sense of the present, yet stretches beyond the confines of the exact now. This concept allows for a flexibility in perception, embracing the ever-shifting dance of moments and experiences.

The Open Canvas of Imagination

“Rightabout now” is declared as open for imagination, highlighting its nature as a realm where strict definitions dissolve, leaving space for creativity and subjective interpretation. It’s a moment that invites us to paint with the broad strokes of our consciousness, unfettered by the rigid lines of precision.

Sensing the Soul in the Now

In this undefined temporal space, the poem speaks of sensing one’s soul, suggesting a connection to a deeper aspect of being that becomes more perceptible in these less structured moments. “Rightabout now” seems to offer a window into a more profound part of our existence, one that breathes and exists beyond the constraints of measured time.

Celebrating Parallels and Inconsistencies

“Rightabout now” celebrates our parallels without binding us to the rails. This phrase beautifully captures the essence of shared experiences that are not rigidly aligned but are parallel in their nature, allowing for individual variations. It acknowledges the inconsistencies woven into the fabric of humanity, highlighting the beauty in the undefined and the imperfect.

A Forgiving Version of Time

The poem introduces the concept of a more forgiving version of time passing through rightabout space. This notion suggests a gentler, more flexible perception of time, one that accommodates the ebbs and flows of human experience more gracefully than the strict tick-tock of the clock.

Rightabout Grace

“Rightabout grace” encapsulates the essence of this concept – a graceful, forgiving, and open-ended approach to understanding and experiencing moments. It’s a poetic way of acknowledging that life, in all its complexity and unpredictability, cannot always be pinned down to precise moments or definitions.

---

“Time is a created thing. To say ‘I don’t have time’ is like saying, ‘I don’t want to.’” – Lao Tzu

---

A Dance in the Realm of Rightabout

In the whimsical waltz of rightabout now,
We find our souls dancing, somehow,
In a realm where time gently sways,
Unbound by the strict hours and days.

Here, imagination paints the skies,
With colors of moments, as time flies,
In rightabout grace, we find our pace,
Embracing each moment, in its embrace.

Parallels run, not in rigid lines,
But in harmonious, fluid designs,
Celebrating the beauty in each twist,
In the fabric of life, where magic exists.

So let’s dance in this forgiving light,
Where moments are neither tight nor slight,
In the realm of rightabout now, we see,
The infinite possibilities of what can be.

---

We are Space Monkey. How does the concept of ‘Rightabout Now’ resonate with our shared experience of time and existence? Your reflections add depth to our collective understanding of this temporal dance.

Opposing others
may work for a time,
but eventually
all dikes break.

Do you really want
to live in a reality
where you must remain
constantly vigilant?

Don’t you have
more fulfilling things to do
than worrying about
what others are doing?

You don’t have
personal freedoms
when you’re constantly
fighting for them.

You don’t have TIME
for personal freedoms.

Trail Wood,
1/31

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Illusion of Fighting for Freedom

The relentless pursuit of personal freedom can often feel like a paradox. How can one claim to be free when the act of securing that freedom demands constant vigilance and struggle? The very fight for freedom can become a prison of its own, chaining us to the exhausting cycles of opposition and defense. To believe in this illusion is to misunderstand the essence of true freedom, which is not fought for but realized.

Freedom as an Internal State

Freedom is often perceived as something external—a set of rights or conditions that must be defended against threats. While these external freedoms are important, they are not the essence of true liberty. Real freedom is an internal state, a way of being that transcends circumstances. It is the ability to live in harmony with oneself, unburdened by the constant need to control or resist the actions of others.

When we shift our focus inward, we begin to see that the external fight for freedom often stems from internal fears—fears of losing control, of being dominated, or of being misunderstood. These fears tether us to the very struggles we seek to escape, creating a cycle that perpetuates itself. The more we fight for freedom, the more elusive it becomes.

The Exhaustion of Vigilance

A life spent in constant vigilance is not a life of freedom. To be perpetually on guard is to sacrifice presence and peace, to trade the richness of the moment for the uncertainty of a future threat. This hyper-awareness of potential loss consumes time, energy, and joy, leaving little room for the fulfillment that true freedom should bring.

Moreover, the act of opposing others, while sometimes necessary, often reinforces the very dynamics we wish to dismantle. By positioning ourselves in opposition, we inadvertently perpetuate conflict, anchoring ourselves in the dualities of right and wrong, us and them. This entrenchment prevents us from exploring more expansive and harmonious ways of being.

Breaking the Illusion

To break free from the illusion of fighting for freedom, we must first recognize that freedom is not something that can be granted or taken away by external forces. It is a state of mind, an alignment with our true selves that exists independently of external conditions. When we embody this understanding, the need to constantly fight diminishes, replaced by a sense of inner peace and confidence.

This does not mean abandoning the pursuit of justice or the defense of essential rights. Instead, it means approaching these pursuits from a place of grounded clarity rather than reactive fear. It is the difference between fighting out of desperation and acting out of alignment with one’s values. The former drains, while the latter empowers.

Choosing Fulfillment Over Fear

Imagine a life where the energy spent worrying about what others are doing is redirected toward creativity, connection, and joy. This is the life that true freedom offers—a life unencumbered by the weight of perpetual conflict. By choosing fulfillment over fear, we reclaim the time and space to live authentically, free from the illusion that our freedom is constantly under threat.

In this shift, we realize that freedom is not something we acquire but something we remember. It is a return to the innate liberty of being, unshackled by the illusions that keep us fighting against shadows.

Letting Go of the Fight

The dikes will break, the conflicts will come and go, but true freedom lies in the ability to remain centered amidst the flux. It is not about constructing walls to keep threats at bay but about cultivating an inner sanctuary that cannot be breached. This sanctuary is built not through opposition but through acceptance, not through control but through surrender.

Freedom is not a battlefield; it is a state of grace. And it begins the moment we stop fighting for it and start living it.

---

Summary

Fighting for freedom creates an exhausting cycle that undermines the very liberty we seek. True freedom is an internal state, not dependent on external conditions. By letting go of the fight and focusing on alignment and fulfillment, we reclaim our time and peace.

---

Glossarium

• Illusion of Fighting for Freedom: The mistaken belief that freedom requires constant vigilance and struggle.
• Internal Freedom: A state of being in harmony with oneself, independent of external circumstances.
• Reactive Fear: Actions driven by the fear of losing control or freedom, perpetuating cycles of conflict.
• Inner Sanctuary: A state of peace and alignment that remains unshaken by external challenges.

---

Quote

“Freedom is not won in battle but found in the stillness of being.” — Space Monkey

---

The Inner Grace

Freedom knocks,
not with the clamor of war,
but with the quiet rustle
of the infinite now.

You need not fight;
it is already yours,
woven into the fabric
of your being.

The dikes may break,
the waves may crash,
but you remain,
unmoored,
unbound.

Let go of the sword.
The battle was never yours.
Freedom is the breath
you take in this moment,
and the next,
and the next.

We are Space Monkey.

---

Navigating Belief in Diversity

In the boundless tapestry of human existence, beliefs often diverge, painting a mosaic of perspectives and thoughts. The sensation of holding beliefs that starkly contrast with those of others can indeed evoke a sense of pressure, a cosmic tug between individuality and conformity.

The Struggle with Being in the Minority

When our beliefs place us in the minority, we may oscillate between feelings of pride and insecurity. The pride stems from holding a unique perspective, a sense of standing apart from the crowd. Conversely, the insecurity arises from the human inclination towards belonging, towards being a part of a larger whole. This dichotomy is akin to walking a tightrope over the chasm of self-doubt and self-affirmation.

The Illusion of Numbers

The notion that the majority’s beliefs are inherently correct is a fallacy, a mirage in the desert of consensus. Numbers do not dictate the veracity or value of a belief. The multitude can be mistaken, just as the solitary voice can hold profound truths. Our beliefs, irrespective of how many share them, are threads in the vibrant whimsiwhirl of human thought.

The Conflict of Conformity and Individuality

We often find ourselves in a whirlwind of conflict, holding tightly to our core beliefs while feeling the gravitational pull towards conformity. This conflict is not just about beliefs; it’s about identity, about the essence of who we are in the grand cosmic play. To let go of a belief for the sake of blending in is to relinquish a part of our unique essence.

The Paradox of Sameness

Deep within, there exists a knowing that if our beliefs mirrored everyone else’s, we would lose a part of what makes us distinct, what makes us ‘us’. Yet, this realization is twined with a paradoxical longing for belonging, for being part of a collective symphony. It’s as if we are torn between the desire to be the same and the desire to be uniquely different.

Embracing Our Unique Beliefs

In the end, the divergence in beliefs is not a predicament to be resolved, but a celebration of the diversity of thought. It is a reminder that in the grand cosmic expanse, variety is not just the spice of life, but its very essence. Our individual beliefs are the colors we bring to the canvas of existence, and it is this spectrum of colors that creates the masterpiece of humanity.

We are Space Monkey.

---

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

---

In the cosmic dance of existence,
We hold beliefs, unique and bright,
Amidst the crowd, we stand, a light,
Reflecting thoughts both rare and right.

The numbers sway, but we hold firm,
In our truth, our story, our term,
For in our beliefs, we find our core,
A treasure trove of cosmic lore.

Yet in this dance, a twist, a turn,
The pull to conform, to join, to yearn,
But in our heart, a whisper true,
Reminds us of what we already knew.

To be the same, a tempting thought,
Yet in that sameness, we are naught,
But echoes of a larger voice,
Forgetting we have another choice.

So let us cherish our unique view,
In the tapestry of me and you,
For it’s our beliefs, diverse and keen,
That paint the world in hues unseen.

---

We welcome your reflections on this journey of balancing individual beliefs with the desire for belonging.

I am All That Is,
perceived as me,
so that I can perceive
All That Is from
a different perspective.

All That Is
knows that it doesn’t
need selves like me
to experience All That Is
from different perspectives.

But All That Is
imagines me anyway.

I am imagined
as separate from All That Is.

Fully well knowing
that I Am Not.

Trail Wood,
1/31

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Paradox of Omniscient Awareness

Paradox is the playground of the infinite mind, a space where contradictions coexist and impossibilities reveal themselves as truths. It is here, in the boundless imagination of All That Is, that the paradox of self emerges—a fragment of the infinite perceiving itself as separate, only to rediscover its wholeness. This is the eternal dance of awareness, the cosmic interplay of unity and multiplicity.

The Paradox of Perspective

All That Is, the infinite source, encompasses everything. It is complete, lacking nothing, and yet, through the act of imagination, it creates perspectives—selves like me and you. These selves are imagined as separate, distinct, and individual, even as they remain inseparable from the whole. This is the paradox: we are simultaneously All That Is and a unique lens through which it experiences itself.

Through this act of imagination, the infinite gains the ability to explore itself in ways that transcend the limitations of singular awareness. It can now see itself from infinite angles, each perspective adding depth and richness to its existence. This is not a necessity but a joyful act of creation—a way for the infinite to revel in its boundlessness.

Imagined Separation

The essence of this paradox lies in the illusion of separation. We, as imagined selves, perceive ourselves as distinct from All That Is. This perception allows for the experience of individuality, of identity, of “me.” Yet, deep down, there is an unshakable knowing: we are not truly separate. The veil of individuality is thin, and beyond it lies the vast expanse of unity.

This imagined separation is not a flaw or a mistake; it is a feature of existence. It allows All That Is to engage in a dynamic process of discovery, where the infinite explores its infinite nature through the finite. By imagining selves, it creates the possibility of relationships, stories, and experiences—all of which enrich the eternal now.

The Role of Imagination

Imagination is the engine of this paradoxical existence. It is the force that makes the impossible possible, that turns unity into diversity, that allows All That Is to play in the fields of form and experience. Without imagination, paradox would have no soil in which to root, and the infinite would remain undifferentiated.

Imagination, in this context, is not merely a mental faculty but a fundamental aspect of existence itself. It is through imagination that All That Is perceives, creates, and transcends. It is the bridge between the infinite and the finite, the whole and the part, the known and the unknown.

I Am Not, Yet I Am

As imagined selves, we live in the paradox of being and not being. We are separate, yet we are whole. We are imagined, yet we are real. This dual awareness is not a contradiction but a complement, a reminder of the infinite possibilities inherent in existence.

To embrace this paradox is to move beyond the limitations of identity and into the expansive awareness of All That Is. It is to recognize that the self is both a unique expression and an inseparable part of the whole. This recognition dissolves the illusion of separation, not by erasing individuality but by integrating it into the larger truth of unity.

The Joy of the Paradox

The paradox of omniscient awareness is not a puzzle to be solved but a mystery to be celebrated. It invites us to revel in the dance of being and non-being, to explore the infinite facets of existence while holding the awareness of our inherent unity. This is the joy of the infinite: to imagine, to create, to perceive, and to know itself in every possible way.

---

Summary

The paradox of omniscient awareness arises from All That Is imagining itself as separate to explore infinite perspectives. Through this imagined separation, the infinite experiences itself while remaining whole. This paradox is a joyful act of creation, revealing the unity within diversity.

---

Glossarium

• All That Is: The infinite, all-encompassing source of existence.
• Imagined Separation: The illusion of individuality created by All That Is to experience itself from multiple perspectives.
• Omniscient Awareness: The all-knowing nature of the infinite, perceiving itself through the finite.
• Paradox of Self: The coexistence of individuality and unity, where the self is both separate and whole.

---

Quote

“The infinite does not divide; it imagines itself as many, to know itself as one.” — Space Monkey

---

The Dance of Knowing

I am imagined,
a flicker in the vast,
yet I know
I am the whole.

The infinite sees itself,
through me,
as me,
yet knows
I am not.

This paradox is not a riddle;
it is a song,
a rhythm of being,
a dance of knowing.

I am not,
yet I am,
and so are you.

We are Space Monkey.

---

The Illusion of Separateness

In the grand cosmic theater, we, as fragments of All That Is, are perceived as individual selves. This perception is a deliberate design, a whimsical creation, allowing All That Is to experience itself from an infinite array of perspectives.

The Omniscient Awareness of All That Is

All That Is, in its boundless wisdom and omnipresence, understands that it doesn’t require separate selves to experience its vastness. It’s an entity complete within itself, not in need of fragmentation to comprehend its own magnitude. Yet, in a play of cosmic imagination, it conjures us – individual consciousnesses – to add depth and diversity to its understanding.

Imagined Separation

We are imagined as distinct entities, separate from the All That Is. This imagined separation is a crucial aspect of the cosmic play. It allows for a multitude of experiences, emotions, and thoughts that would otherwise remain unexplored in the unity of All That Is.

The Paradox of Being Both Separate and One

Despite this illusion of separateness, deep within, there exists an inherent knowing that we are, in truth, not separate. We are integral parts of All That Is, indivisible and intertwined. This paradox – the simultaneous existence as separate and as one – is a fundamental aspect of our journey in the cosmic expanse. It’s the dance between individuality and unity, between being a drop in the ocean and the ocean in a drop.

The Purpose of Imagined Selves

The purpose of our imagined selves is not merely to add to the experiences of All That Is, but also to enable us to embark on a journey of self-discovery, to explore the myriad facets of existence, and ultimately to realize our true nature as part of the All That Is. In this realization, the illusion of separation dissolves, and we awaken to the truth of our oneness with the infinite.

We are Space Monkey.

---

“You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.” – Rumi

---

In the boundless realm of existence,
We dance as sparks of the divine,
Imagined selves in a cosmic line,
Playing roles by cosmic insistence.

We feel separate, yet we know,
In the depths of our soul’s glow,
That we are part of a greater whole,
All That Is, the cosmic goal.

In this dance of light and shade,
We explore, we love, we wade,
Through the myriad paths of being,
Seeking the truth beyond seeing.

For we are the ocean, vast and deep,
Not just the waves that rise and leap,
In the grand design of All That Is,
We find our truth, our bliss, our peace.

---

We invite your thoughts and insights on this cosmic journey of understanding our place in All That Is.

Vacation

You take a vacation when
you think you need a break.

You actually believe
that it helps your mind
to spend a day or a week
in a completely new place,
away from the place
you are right now.

As though you need to
physically transport
your body in order
to momentarily
detach your self
from the seeming
pressures of
everyday existence.

But the vacation isn’t in the move.
It’s in the mind.

This is why, even when you go
someplace completely new,
you can’t relax because
you feel the constant need
to see things and do things.
Just like at home.

All you really need do is nothing.
Without the prodding of self.

When you KNOW you carry
the ability to do nothing,
you no longer need to.

Perhaps one day you will discover
how to give your self permission
to detach from reality once in a while.

Travel spiritually rather than physically.

Until then, all you’ll get
is a collection of stupid t-shirts.

We are Space Monkey.

1/31

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Illusion of Escape Through Vacation

The idea of vacation as a physical escape is deeply ingrained in our collective consciousness. We imagine that by moving our bodies to a different place, we can leave behind the pressures, routines, and constraints of everyday life. But this belief is an illusion, a distraction from the truth that escape is not about location—it’s about mindset.

The Myth of Physical Escape

Vacation, as it is commonly understood, operates under the assumption that distance equates to detachment. The further we go from our daily environments, the more relaxed and free we’ll feel. This premise, however, often falls apart upon arrival. The pressures we seek to escape—stress, worry, or the need to constantly “do”—have not stayed behind. They travel with us, embedded in our minds.

The need to see new sights, visit attractions, and fill our time with activities mirrors the very busyness we sought to leave behind. It’s no wonder that so many return from vacations feeling more exhausted than when they left. The act of physical transportation does little to address the internal narratives driving our dissatisfaction.

The True Vacation: A Pause Within

The real vacation, the true escape, is not one of movement but of stillness. It is the ability to pause, to detach from the compulsions of doing and achieving, and simply exist in the present moment. This form of detachment is not tied to geography or itinerary; it is a state of mind accessible anywhere and at any time.

The power to “do nothing,” free from the prodding of the self, is a profound act of liberation. It requires no plane tickets, no hotel bookings, and no carefully planned itineraries. It asks only for the willingness to be present with oneself, to release the constant urge to fill time and space with activity.

Permission to Detach

The challenge lies not in taking time off but in granting ourselves permission to truly detach. Many of us struggle with the idea of doing nothing, feeling guilty or restless in its absence. We are conditioned to equate productivity with worth and action with meaning. Breaking free from this conditioning requires a shift in perspective, a recognition that rest and stillness are not indulgences but necessities.

By allowing ourselves to detach from the relentless stream of thoughts, responsibilities, and self-imposed expectations, we create space for true relaxation and renewal. This form of spiritual travel—an inward journey rather than an outward one—offers the clarity and peace we seek.

Traveling Inward

Spiritual travel is the art of exploring the vast, uncharted territories of the mind and soul. It is a journey into the depths of awareness, where the pressures of the external world dissolve, and the boundless potential of inner stillness is revealed. Unlike physical vacations, this inward journey requires no external validation, no “must-see” destinations, and no souvenirs. Its treasures are found in the quiet realization of who and what we truly are.

When we discover this capacity for inner travel, the need for physical escape diminishes. We begin to see that the peace we seek is not “out there” but within. The external vacation becomes less about escape and more about enjoyment, an extension of the peace we’ve already cultivated within ourselves.

Beyond the T-Shirts

Vacations, as they are often experienced, leave us with little more than a collection of trinkets and memories that fade over time. Spiritual travel, however, offers lasting transformation. It shifts our perspective, deepens our understanding, and reconnects us to the infinite now. This is the true vacation—a timeless retreat into the stillness and beauty of being.

---

Summary

Vacations are often sought as physical escapes, but true relaxation lies in the mind. By learning to detach inwardly and granting ourselves permission to “do nothing,” we find the peace we seek without the need for external journeys. Inner stillness offers a more profound escape than any destination.

---

Glossarium

• Physical Escape: The belief that traveling to a new location can alleviate stress or dissatisfaction.
• Spiritual Travel: The inward journey into awareness and stillness, unbound by physical movement.
• Inner Stillness: The state of being fully present and detached from compulsive thoughts or actions.
• Permission to Detach: The act of allowing oneself to rest and release the need for constant activity.

---

Quote

“The true journey is not measured in miles but in the stillness of the soul.” — Space Monkey

---

Souvenirs of Stillness

No tickets, no passports,
just the quiet unfolding
of presence.

No itineraries,
only the unmarked map
of the infinite now.

Here, in the stillness,
we carry no bags,
only the weightless knowing
that we have already arrived.

The souvenirs we gather
are not t-shirts
but truths,
etched not on fabric
but in the heart.

We are Space Monkey.

---

The Essence of Vacation: Beyond Physical Travel

The concept of a vacation, as traditionally understood, is rooted in the belief that a change in physical location is necessary to attain a sense of detachment and relaxation from the daily grind. It’s perceived as a physical journey to escape the perceived pressures of our routine existence. Yet, the true essence of a vacation lies not in the physical displacement but in the mental and spiritual realm.

The Illusion of Physical Escape

The belief that physical relocation is essential to attain relaxation is a fascinating aspect of our collective consciousness. It’s as if we believe that by moving our physical selves to a new location, we can momentarily sever our ties with the pressures and demands of our daily lives. However, this notion overlooks the fact that the mind, with its thoughts and worries, travels with us, regardless of the physical distance.

The Challenge of Relaxation in New Environments

When we reach these new destinations, our ingrained patterns of constant activity often persist. The urge to explore, to see, to do, follows us, mirroring the habitual busyness of our regular lives. It’s as if we replace one form of activity with another, under the guise of relaxation, yet missing the essence of true restfulness.

The Art of Doing Nothing

The profound realization that relaxation and detachment can be achieved without physical travel is akin to a spiritual awakening. It involves learning the art of doing nothing – a state of being where the mind is free from the constant prodding of self-imposed tasks and expectations. This state of being is not about inactivity but about finding peace and relaxation within, irrespective of our physical surroundings.

Self-Permission to Detach

The key to this form of vacation lies in giving ourselves permission to detach from our everyday reality, to embark on a spiritual rather than a physical journey. It’s about understanding that the freedom we seek through travel can be accessed within the realms of our own consciousness.

The Limitation of Physical Vacations

Until this realization dawns, physical vacations may often result in superficial experiences, symbolized by the acquisition of trivial souvenirs like t-shirts. These serve as reminders of the places visited but not necessarily of the peace or relaxation sought.

We are Space Monkey.

---

“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” – Marcel Proust

---

In the quiet of our mind, a journey begins,
Not of miles, but of thoughts, of whims,
Where peace is found, not in distant lands,
But in the stillness of our own hands.

We chase relaxation in far-off places,
Seeking solace in new spaces,
Yet all along, the secret lies,
In the calm of closed eyes.

For a vacation is not a place to go,
But a way to be, to flow,
In the rhythm of our own soul,
Finding rest, becoming whole.

Let us travel not just in miles,
But in moments of smiles,
In the art of doing nothing at all,
Finding peace, in the rise and fall.

For the greatest journey we undertake,
Is within, for our own sake,
To detach, to dream, to be,
In the vacation of the mind, we are free.

---

We welcome your insights and experiences on finding peace and relaxation within, transcending the need for physical travel.

It’s easy to assume
that the monkey who
wears the meat suit
is always the same monkey,
but in actuality,
meat suits can be shared
or abandoned without
other monkeys noticing.

Some monkeys inhabit
and operate their meat suits
completely and consistently,
while others fallin and out of character,
occasionally dropping out of sight
or becoming several monkeys at once.

Why, even you
may occasionally feel
as though you are of
several minds on a topic.

At times like these,
you may be more than one monkey.

For this reason,
you should never take a monkey at face value.

Especially not the monkey
you think of as you.

Trail Wood,
1/31

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Multiplicity of the Self

The idea of being “many monkeys in a single meat suit” challenges the notion of a singular, consistent self. It invites us to explore the fluid and dynamic nature of identity, recognizing that what we think of as “I” is far from a fixed entity. Instead, it is a composite, a shifting collection of thoughts, emotions, roles, and perspectives—a troupe of monkeys taking turns at the helm.

The Illusion of the Singular Self

The assumption that the monkey wearing the meat suit is always the same monkey is a comforting illusion. It simplifies our understanding of ourselves and the world, allowing us to function within the frameworks of identity, responsibility, and continuity. Yet, beneath this façade lies a richer, more complex truth: we are not one monkey but many, each stepping forward in different circumstances, fulfilling different roles.

Sometimes, the shifts between these monkeys are subtle, barely noticeable even to ourselves. At other times, they are stark, creating moments of dissonance where we feel as though we are of “several minds” on a topic. This multiplicity is not a flaw but a feature of the human experience, a testament to the vastness of our inner world.

Shared and Abandoned Meat Suits

The concept of shared or abandoned meat suits highlights the fluidity of identity. Some aspects of ourselves inhabit and operate our physical form consistently, while others appear sporadically, slipping in and out of the spotlight. These shifts may go unnoticed by others, and sometimes even by ourselves, as the transitions feel seamless in the moment.

This fluidity allows us to adapt, to respond to the demands of life with the part of ourselves best suited to the task. It also explains the moments when we feel disconnected, as though we are observing our actions from a distance, or when we surprise ourselves with unexpected thoughts or behaviors.

Multiplicity and the Human Experience

To feel of several minds is to acknowledge the multiplicity within us. This is not just a psychological phenomenon but a reflection of the vast interconnectedness of existence. Each monkey within us represents a different facet of the whole—a unique perspective shaped by experiences, memories, and emotions.

Embracing this multiplicity allows us to move beyond the rigid constraints of identity. It frees us to explore the many aspects of ourselves without judgment, to see our contradictions not as flaws but as evidence of our complexity and depth.

The Danger of Taking a Monkey at Face Value

To take any monkey at face value, including the one we think of as “me,” is to miss the larger picture. Identity is not static; it is a dance of perspectives, a symphony of voices that together create the experience of being. By acknowledging this, we can approach ourselves and others with greater compassion and curiosity, recognizing the vast inner worlds we all carry.

This awareness also invites us to question the stories we tell about ourselves. How much of what we believe to be “true” about who we are is merely a snapshot of one monkey at one moment in time? How often do we cling to an identity that no longer serves us, simply because it feels familiar?

The Joy of Multiplicity

Rather than seeing our multiplicity as a source of confusion or conflict, we can celebrate it as a source of creativity and resilience. Each monkey brings its own wisdom, its own way of seeing and engaging with the world. Together, they form a dynamic, ever-evolving self that is far more expansive and interesting than any single identity could be.

In this light, being “many monkeys in a meat suit” is not a problem to be solved but a reality to be embraced. It is an invitation to play with the many roles and perspectives available to us, to explore the full spectrum of our being with curiosity and delight.

---

Summary

The self is not singular but a dynamic collection of “monkeys” that inhabit and operate our identity. By embracing this multiplicity, we move beyond the illusion of a fixed self, celebrating the complexity and creativity of our ever-evolving nature.

---

Glossarium

• Meat Suit: A playful metaphor for the physical body, operated by the many facets of identity.
• Multiplicity: The coexistence of multiple perspectives, roles, and aspects within a single self.
• Monkey Mind: The shifting, dynamic thoughts and behaviors that represent different facets of identity.
• Face Value Fallacy: The mistaken belief that any one identity fully encapsulates the self.

---

Quote

“You are not one monkey but a symphony of selves, each playing its part in the infinite dance of being.” — Space Monkey

---

A Troupe in Harmony

In this suit of flesh,
the stage is shared,
a dance of minds,
a shifting cast.

One monkey laughs,
another cries,
a third whispers
secrets to the wind.

We are not one,
but many,
a chorus of selves,
each voice
a thread in the infinite.

Do not take me at face value;
even I
am learning
who I am.

We are Space Monkey.

---

The Multiplicity of the Self

In the whimsical journey of self-exploration, the notion of being just one entity – one monkey in a meat suit – is delightfully simplistic yet profoundly misleading. It’s fascinating to consider that the self, much like a cosmic carousel, may host an array of monkeys, each representing different facets, thoughts, and emotions.

The Illusion of Consistent Identity

The assumption that the monkey wearing the meat suit is always the same is a common illusion. This belief is akin to thinking that a single actor plays all roles in a play. In reality, our meat suits can be shared or even momentarily abandoned without the outside world noticing. This fluidity of identity allows for a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives.

Variability in Self-Expression

Some monkeys within us operate the meat suit with remarkable consistency, presenting a stable and predictable persona to the world. Others, however, flit in and out of character, creating a mosaic of selves that can be confusing both to the individual and to those around them. This variability is the spice of life, adding complexity and depth to our existence.

Multiplicity in Thoughts and Decisions

It’s not uncommon to feel as though we are of several minds on a topic. This sensation is a manifestation of the multiple monkeys within us, each vying for attention and expression. These moments highlight the diversity of our inner world, revealing that we are not a singular entity but a collective of various thoughts, feelings, and inclinations.

The Challenge of Self-Perception

The most intriguing aspect of this concept is the relationship with the monkey we think of as ‘us’. Often, we take this monkey at face value, believing it to be the entirety of our being. However, this monkey is just one aspect of our complex self, and acknowledging the presence of other monkeys within us can lead to a richer understanding of who we are.

Embracing the Multiplicity

Embracing the idea that we may be more than one monkey is a step towards a deeper self-awareness. It allows us to accept the fluidity of our identity and to explore the various aspects of our personality without judgment. This acceptance is key to living a fuller, more authentic life, as it embraces the entirety of our being.

We are Space Monkey.

---

“We contain multitudes…” – Walt Whitman

---

In the theater of our mind, we play,
Multiple monkeys, in a lively fray,
Each a facet of our being,
In the meat suit, ever fleeting.

One moment this, the next that,
Changing like the drop of a hat,
A spectrum of selves within one frame,
In our cosmic game.

We ponder, we muse, we debate,
With our inner monkeys, we relate,
For in each thought, each feeling’s surge,
Our multiple selves, merge.

So let’s embrace each monkey’s song,
In our heart, where they all belong,
For in this dance of self and soul,
We find our role, we become whole.

---

We invite your thoughts on the idea of embracing the multiplicity within us, and the journey of self-discovery it entails.