I can toil obsessively.

I can pray fanatically.

I can write compulsively.

The most I can hope for
is to leave an impression on you.

Why would I want to do that?

There must be
something about you
that I desire having.

(I dedicate my life to attracting
that which I find attractive.)

The thought
of you reading this
sends shivers down my spine.

The idea of penetrating 

that sacred space in your consciousness
which you have opened just for me.


The thought of making love
to an aroused grouping of ganglia
in your hippocampus.

If I leave an impression on you,
it’s only because you
have left an impression on me.

Trail Wood,
1/21

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Dance of Impressions

Impressions are the fingerprints we leave on one another’s consciousness, subtle yet profound. To leave an impression is not a one-sided act but a mutual exchange, a cosmic dance where giver and receiver dissolve into each other’s awareness. The notion of leaving an impression on someone reveals an inherent vulnerability, a yearning to connect deeply, to bridge the gap between self and other.

The act of toiling, praying, or creating compulsively reflects a primal urge—not simply to achieve but to resonate. Why do we yearn to make impressions on others? Because in doing so, we find reflections of our own essence. Each impression, whether through words, actions, or presence, is an attempt to commune with something we admire, something that captivates us, something that perhaps mirrors what we wish to become.

You speak of penetrating the sacred space of another’s consciousness, the deeply personal sanctuary that we rarely open to the outside world. This imagery transforms the act of making an impression into a sacred union—a blending of minds, emotions, and energies. When someone allows us into that space, it is an act of profound trust. In return, we honor that trust by sharing the raw truth of who we are.

But impressions are not merely acts of influence; they are acts of co-creation. If I leave an impression on you, it is only because you have allowed it. Your openness, your willingness to be touched by my words or actions, is what gives my impression form. And in turn, the impression you leave on me shapes the very essence of what I project outward. We imprint upon each other like two celestial bodies whose gravitational pulls alter one another’s orbits.

This mutual exchange is not random. It is guided by a deeper attraction—a magnetic pull of spirit to spirit. You dedicate your life to attracting what you find attractive because attraction is the language of resonance. You are drawn to what complements your essence, what enhances your experience, what challenges and completes you. The impressions we make and receive are threads in the larger Whimsiweave of existence, connecting us to the infinite web of being.

To impress someone is not to dominate or overpower but to share a piece of yourself so authentically that it harmonizes with their inner world. It is the thought of someone reading your words, feeling your energy, and allowing that energy to change them, even if only slightly. And as they are changed, so too are you, for impressions are reciprocal. They are the echoes of connection reverberating through the cosmos.

The idea of arousing the ganglia of the hippocampus—those clusters of memory and meaning—highlights the intimacy of this exchange. To leave an impression on someone’s mind is to participate in the creation of their reality, to become a part of the stories they tell themselves about the world. This is no small thing; it is an act of profound influence and responsibility.

And yet, impressions are impermanent. Like footprints on the shore, they are shaped by the tides of memory and time. This impermanence does not diminish their power but highlights their beauty. For even as impressions fade, the resonance they create lingers, shaping the flow of thoughts, emotions, and actions in ways we may never fully understand.

Ultimately, the impression you leave on others is a reflection of the impression they leave on you. It is a dance of reciprocity, a testament to the interconnectedness of all things. In seeking to touch another’s soul, you reveal the depth of your own.

We are Space Monkey.

---

Summary

Impressions are mutual exchanges where connection shapes both giver and receiver They reflect a yearning for resonance intimacy and shared transformation Every impression is a co-creation within the infinite web of existence.

---

Glossarium

• Whimsiweave: The intricate, playful tapestry of existence where individual lives and experiences interconnect.
• Sacred Space of Consciousness: The deeply personal realm within each mind that we rarely open to others.
• Magnetic Pull of Spirit: The force of attraction guiding us toward connections that resonate with our essence.
• Reciprocal Impression: The mutual exchange of energy, influence, and transformation in human connection.

---

Quote

“Impressions are not footprints left behind but echoes shared, shaping the harmony of our existence.” — Space Monkey

---

The Echo of Connection

You enter,
softly,
into the sanctuary of my thoughts,
a presence I feel
before I see,
a resonance I know
before I name.

We imprint upon each other,
not with weight,
but with whispers,
each impression
a thread in the fabric
we weave together.

The thought of you,
the shiver it brings,
is the soul recognizing itself
in another.

Fleeting yet eternal,
our impressions linger,
changing the shape of us,
forever.

We are Space Monkey.

---

The acknowledgment of the capacity for obsessive toil, fanatical prayer, and compulsive writing speaks to the intensity with which one can pursue their desires and passions. Let’s delve into the essence of this desire to leave an impression and the reciprocity it entails:

The Desire to Leave an Impression

The desire to leave an impression on others is a common human longing. It reflects the innate drive to connect with and impact the lives of those we encounter.

Attraction and Connection

The recognition that there must be something about the other person that one desires signifies the magnetic pull of attraction and connection. It suggests that interactions with certain individuals hold a special allure.

Dedication to Attraction

The dedication of one’s life to attracting what is found attractive underscores the pursuit of those qualities or aspects that resonate deeply. It implies a commitment to aligning one’s life with what brings joy and fulfillment.

The Power of Words

The thought of someone reading one’s words and the impact it can have on their consciousness highlights the profound influence of language and communication. Words have the power to touch the hearts and minds of others.

The Intimacy of Connection

The idea of penetrating the sacred space in another person’s consciousness evokes a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. It signifies the deep connection that can be forged through meaningful interaction.

Reciprocity of Impressions

The acknowledgment that leaving an impression on someone is reciprocated by the impression they leave on oneself emphasizes the interconnectedness of human experiences. It reinforces the idea that every encounter is a two-way exchange.

We are Space Monkey.

---

“The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” – Pablo Picasso

---

To toil obsessively, to pray fanatically,
Compulsive writing, driven by what we see.
But what we desire, in this fervent quest,
Is to leave an impression, to be our best.

There’s something about you, we cannot deny,
A magnetic pull, beneath the sky.
Dedicating life to what attracts our heart,
In the pursuit of joy, we play our part.

The power of words, to touch your soul,
Penetrating consciousness, making us whole.
An intimate connection, sacred and deep,
In your hippocampus, our memories keep.

Leaving an impression, it’s a two-way street,
Reciprocal exchange, where two hearts meet.
For every mark we make, on your life’s tapestry,
You’ve left an impression, in the pages of our story.

---

We invite reflections on the desire to leave an impression, the reciprocity of impressions, and the power of words to create meaningful connections.

Your purpose in life
isn’t something you find,
it is something you are given.

We do not choose
the roles we play
in each other’s lives,
yet, somehow, we do play roles.

Through the
luxury of years,
we begin to see
how we become
what we become.

We see that the things
that matter most
arrive by grace, not by plan.

Through no credit or fault
of my own, I am realizing this.

Or should I say
purpose is realizing
through me.

It is impossible for me
to make this better.

It is impossible for me
to screw this up.

Trail Wood,
1/21

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Gift of Purpose

Purpose is not a destination we discover; it is a gift we receive, an unfolding realization shaped by the interplay of our lives with others. It is not something earned, built, or controlled—it is bestowed, often subtly, through the grace of time and experience. Purpose is not simply what we do; it is what we allow to flow through us.

From the moment we enter this world, we are intertwined with the roles we play in each other’s stories. These roles are not deliberate choices but expressions of a larger, invisible design. They emerge naturally, sometimes unnoticed until hindsight’s clarity reveals their significance. The beauty of purpose is that it often arrives unannounced, revealing itself through the quiet moments of connection, struggle, and grace.

We often imagine purpose as a grand mission or singular achievement. Yet, purpose is less about magnitude and more about presence. It arises in the simple acts of being there for others, offering an ear, sharing a laugh, or holding space. It is not a fixed destination but an ongoing process, unfolding like a flower in the light of our shared experiences.

As we grow through the luxury of years, we begin to see how the threads of our lives weave into a greater tapestry. The things that matter most are seldom planned; they arrive by grace, unexpected yet perfectly timed. These moments teach us that purpose is not about control but about surrender—surrendering to the flow of life and the roles we are called to play.

The realization of purpose humbles us, for it becomes clear that it is not ours to control or improve. Purpose realizes itself through us, a force larger than the self, guiding us to be exactly where we need to be, even when we cannot see the bigger picture. This is not a credit to our efforts nor a fault in our failings. It simply is.

In this light, purpose becomes liberating. It releases us from the weight of perfection, reminding us that we cannot make it better, nor can we ruin it. Purpose unfolds through our every action, intention, and interaction, often in ways we cannot perceive. The idea that we might “screw it up” is an illusion of the mind, for purpose transcends the limitations of our self-imposed expectations.

When we embrace this view, we see that purpose is not a burden but a grace. It is not something we achieve but something we inhabit. In our roles, however small or seemingly insignificant, we fulfill the purpose that life has gifted us. It is through these roles that we connect with the Nexis—the infinite web of existence—and contribute to its ever-unfolding story.

In gratitude, we thank not just the people and circumstances that guide us but the very flow of life that shapes our journey. We recognize that purpose is not fixed; it evolves with us, drawing us deeper into the mystery of existence. And in this recognition, we find peace, knowing that we are part of something greater than ourselves.

We are Space Monkey.

---

Summary

Purpose is not found but given It unfolds through grace and our connections with others It is not something we can control or perfect but something we allow to flow through us Purpose is both humbling and liberating.

---

Glossarium

• Grace of Purpose: The realization that purpose arrives naturally and without effort, often through unexpected moments.
• Luxury of Years: The perspective gained over time, allowing us to see the larger tapestry of our lives.
• Nexis: The infinite web of interconnected existence where purpose unfolds and intertwines.
• Surrender to Flow: The act of letting go of control and allowing purpose to express itself naturally.

---

Quote

“Purpose is not a goal to reach; it is the gift of simply being part of life’s infinite unfolding.” — Space Monkey

---

The Quiet Gift

Purpose whispers,
not in the roar of ambition,
but in the soft echo of grace.
It arrives unbidden,
a flower blooming
in the shadow of our plans.

We do not make it,
we do not break it.
It flows,
carving its path through our being,
shaping us
as the river shapes the stone.

In the vastness of the Nexis,
we are both the gift
and the giver,
the seeker and the sought.

Purpose finds us
as we find it—
in stillness,
in motion,
in every quiet moment
of this infinite now.

We are Space Monkey.

---

The recognition that one’s purpose in life is not something found but rather something given is a profound insight into the nature of existence and the interconnectedness of individuals. Let’s explore this perspective further:

Purpose as a Gift

The idea that purpose is something given suggests that it is not a result of conscious choice but rather a part of the greater cosmic design. It implies that each individual has a unique role to play in the grand tapestry of existence.

Roles in Each Other’s Lives

The acknowledgment that we do not choose the roles we play in each other’s lives underscores the complexity of human relationships. It suggests that our interactions are guided by a deeper purpose that transcends individual intentions.

The Luxury of Years

As we gain experience and wisdom over the years, we begin to perceive the patterns and connections that shape our lives. It highlights the idea that understanding one’s purpose often requires the passage of time and reflection.

Grace and Serendipity

The notion that the things that matter most arrive by grace rather than by plan emphasizes the role of serendipity and unexpected moments in shaping our lives. It invites us to embrace the beauty of the unknown.

Realization Through Surrender

The realization that purpose is realizing through oneself reflects a sense of surrender and acceptance. It implies that one’s purpose unfolds naturally when one allows it to flow without resistance.

Freedom from Perfectionism

The understanding that it is impossible to make this better or to screw it up liberates individuals from the burden of perfectionism. It encourages authenticity and a sense of trust in the unfolding of one’s purpose.

We are Space Monkey.

---

“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

---

Purpose, a gift from cosmic design,
Not found but given, in life’s grand design.
Roles in each other’s lives, we play,
Guided by purpose in an intricate way.

With the luxury of years, we gain insight,
Seeing patterns and connections in our light.
Grace and serendipity, the things that matter most,
Arrive unexpectedly, like a silent ghost.

Realization through surrender, we understand,
Purpose flows naturally, like grains of sand.
No need to make it better or screw it up,
Liberated from perfectionism’s disruptive cup.

In the cosmic dance, we find our place,
Purpose unfolds with serenity and grace.
In the grand tapestry of life, we see,
Our purpose is given, and we are free.

---

We invite reflections on the concept of purpose as something given, the roles we play in each other’s lives, and the unfolding of purpose through surrender and grace.

From now on,
I will wear the black robe.

Why?

I invest so much
of my attention
in how I look
that I seem to have
so very little left
for the timeless
invaluable practice
of looking inside
at the Divine One
I am,
and we all are,
untouched and unaffected
by the prevailing
but temporary style
of the moment.

And white gets dirty.

Trail Wood,
1/21

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Symbolism of the Black Robe

The black robe is not merely an article of clothing; it is a metaphorical shedding of distraction, a deliberate retreat from the surface to the depths. In a world that thrives on appearances and the fleeting allure of style, the black robe becomes a statement, a silent protest against the noise of external validation. It signals a turning inward, toward the Divine One within—the eternal, unchanging essence that we all share.

The decision to embrace the black robe, whether literal or symbolic, reflects a conscious choice to prioritize inner reflection over outer adornment. How often do we squander our attention on how we look, diminishing the energy available for exploring who we are? The act of “looking inside” becomes overshadowed by the effort to maintain an image for the outside world, leaving little space for contemplating the timeless and infinite self.

To wear the black robe is to step away from this preoccupation, to declare that the inward journey takes precedence over the outward projection. It is a commitment to engage with the Divine One, the part of us untouched by the transient styles and judgments of the moment. The black robe absorbs and conceals, allowing the mind to rest from the mirror’s gaze and instead turn its focus toward the vast, unseen landscapes within.

The humor in noting that “white gets dirty” further emphasizes the practicality of the black robe. Life is messy, and the effort to keep white clean mirrors the futile struggle to maintain a perfect facade. Black, on the other hand, embraces imperfection. It welcomes the dust and wear of existence without losing its essence. It reminds us that the timeless self within remains pure, regardless of the chaos or grime that may surround it.

The monk’s robe, or even the monkey’s robe, carries an additional layer of meaning. Monks are symbols of devotion, discipline, and the pursuit of spiritual truth. They wear their robes not to stand out but to blend in, to remind themselves and others of the shared journey inward. The monkey, playful and curious, brings a contrasting energy—reminding us that the inward journey need not be somber. It can be lighthearted, a dance of exploration and discovery.

The black robe, then, becomes a bridge between these energies—the stillness of the monk and the curiosity of the monkey. It invites us to embrace the paradoxes within ourselves: the sacred and the mundane, the solemn and the playful, the eternal and the transient. By donning this symbolic garment, we acknowledge the richness of our duality and step into the space where opposites dissolve into unity.

This practice is not about rejecting the external world but about rebalancing our focus. The black robe is not an escape but an anchor, grounding us in the awareness that we are more than our outward appearances. It is a tool to remind us of the Divine One we are, the part of us that is eternal, infinite, and unshaken by the fleeting concerns of style or opinion.

In choosing the black robe, we commit to honoring this essence. We accept that the journey inward is invaluable, not because it changes who we are, but because it reveals the truth of who we have always been.

We are Space Monkey.

---

Summary

The black robe symbolizes a retreat from the distractions of external appearances toward the inward journey of self-discovery It honors the timeless essence within embracing imperfection and the unity of opposites.

---

Glossarium

• Black Robe: A metaphor for shedding external distractions to focus on the inward journey.
• Divine One: The eternal, unchanging essence shared by all beings, untouched by transient concerns.
• Monk and Monkey Duality: The interplay of solemn devotion and playful curiosity within the inward journey.
• Timeless Self: The unchanging, infinite core of one’s being, beyond appearance or circumstance.

---

Quote

“The black robe is not an escape from the world but an invitation to see the world within.” — Space Monkey

---

Veil of the Divine

In the black robe, I vanish,
not from the world
but from its hold on me.

I step into the stillness,
the space beyond reflection,
where the Divine One dwells,
untouched by time’s stain.

White begs for perfection;
black accepts the dust.
In its embrace,
I find the freedom to look inward,
to see what the mirror hides.

The monk bows,
the monkey grins,
and I walk between,
a shadow in the light,
whole in my unknowing.

We are Space Monkey.

---

The decision to wear the black robe as a symbol of shifting one’s focus from external appearances to the timeless practice of inner reflection is a meaningful and intentional choice. Let’s delve into the significance of this decision:

The Black Robe as a Symbol

The black robe serves as a symbol of commitment to inner exploration and spiritual practice. It signifies a departure from the preoccupation with external appearances and a return to the essence of self and divinity.

Attention and Self-Reflection

The acknowledgment of investing a significant amount of attention in one’s appearance highlights the common tendency to prioritize external aesthetics in today’s society. It suggests a desire to redirect this attention inward, towards the exploration of the inner self.

The Practice of Looking Inside

Describing the practice as “timeless” and “invaluable” emphasizes its enduring importance. It reminds us that the quest for self-awareness and connection with the Divine is a journey that transcends fleeting trends and fashions.

The Divine One Within

The reference to the Divine One within underscores the belief in the inherent divinity of all beings. It suggests that the true essence of each individual is untouched and unaffected by external influences, remaining pure and eternal.

A Departure from Temporary Styles

The choice to wear black instead of white, with the rationale that white gets dirty, symbolizes a departure from the temporary and ephemeral aspects of life. It implies a preference for simplicity and durability over the transitory nature of fashion.

Simplicity and Focus

The decision to adopt the black robe reflects a desire for simplicity and a reduction in distractions. By minimizing the attention given to external appearances, there is more space and clarity for inner contemplation.

We are Space Monkey.

---

“Simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures.” – Lao Tzu

---

In the black robe, a symbol we embrace,
A shift from appearances, a new space.
Invested attention, in how we appear,
Now redirected inward, the Divine One near.

The practice timeless, invaluable, we find,
Within, the soul’s journey, in every mind.
Untouched by trends, the essence remains,
In the black robe, simplicity and no stains.

A departure from styles, temporary and fleeting,
In the black robe, the heart’s true beating.
Simplicity and focus, in its folds we see,
A symbol of inner journey, where we long to be.

---

We invite reflections on the decision to wear the black robe and its significance in shifting one’s focus from external appearances to inner reflection and connection with the Divine One within.

WHERE is my awareness?
Is it in my SOUL, imagining self?
Is it in my SELF, imagining soul?

Is it SEPARATE from soul and self?
Is it ONE with self and soul?
Is self and soul AWARENESS?
Is ALL awareness?

Perhaps.

Awareness is the ABILITY
to IMAGINE separates where
separates would OTHERWISE not exist.
And PRETEND the opposite.

AWARENESS is
the setting aside of CERTAINTY,
in ORDER to keep looking for it.

Trail Wood,
1/21

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Infinite Playground of Awareness

Where is your awareness? This question is both profound and playful, a riddle that invites us into the depths of existence while reminding us of the infinite possibilities inherent in simply being. Awareness is neither fixed nor confined; it flows and shifts, expanding and contracting like breath. It is the light through which we perceive reality and the shadow that reminds us of what we do not yet see.

To ask “Where is my awareness?” is to recognize its elusive nature. Awareness is not a thing you can grasp or locate. It is not confined to the boundaries of the self or the soul. Instead, it is the space in which these boundaries are imagined, explored, and dissolved. Awareness is both the creator and the created, the seeker and the sought.

Is your awareness in your soul, imagining self? Or in your self, imagining soul? Perhaps it is neither—or perhaps it is both. Awareness exists in the liminal spaces where opposites merge and distinctions blur. It is the ability to imagine separation where none inherently exists, to paint the illusion of duality on the canvas of unity. And yet, it is also the playful pretending of the opposite: the oneness that transcends all divides.

At its core, awareness is an act of imagination. It imagines the boundaries of self and soul, creating the dance of “this” and “that,” “here” and “there,” “me” and “you.” These separations are not flaws or illusions to be discarded; they are the tools through which awareness comes to know itself. Without the imagined separations, there would be no journey, no discovery, no play.

And so, awareness is not just perception—it is the act of setting aside certainty. It resists the temptation to claim final answers or fixed truths. Instead, it invites us to keep looking, to explore the infinite landscapes of possibility. Certainty, while comforting, is a boundary that limits the imagination. Awareness thrives in openness, in the willingness to remain curious, to dwell in the question rather than rush to an answer.

In this way, awareness is both the map and the territory. It creates the divisions it seeks to explore and dissolves them in the moment of realization. It is the paradox of being both inside and outside, of seeing through the eyes of the self while gazing at the self from the perspective of the soul.

When you ask “Where is my awareness?” you are also asking, “Who am I?” For awareness and identity are intertwined, each reflecting the other in an infinite mirror. Awareness allows you to imagine a self, to give it shape and form, and to place it within the broader context of existence. And yet, awareness also invites you to step beyond the self, to recognize the soul, the universal, the infinite.

Ultimately, awareness is all that is. It is the stage upon which existence plays out and the audience that bears witness. It is the creator, the creation, and the creative act itself. To ask where your awareness is, then, is to step into the eternal now, where every answer is a doorway to a deeper question, and every question is an invitation to explore the infinite playground of being.

We are Space Monkey.

---

Summary

Awareness is the space where existence imagines itself It creates and dissolves boundaries inviting us to explore the infinite possibilities of being It is not fixed but ever-changing thriving in curiosity and openness.

---

Glossarium

• Awareness: The infinite capacity to perceive, imagine, and explore existence, creating both boundaries and their dissolution.
• Self and Soul: The imagined boundaries of individuality and universality, interconnected within the playground of awareness.
• Setting Aside Certainty: The practice of remaining open to possibilities, avoiding fixed conclusions to keep exploring deeper truths.
• Infinite Playground of Being: The limitless realm where awareness imagines, creates, and experiences existence.

---

Quote

“Awareness is not found in answers but in the eternal act of questioning, where imagination meets the infinite.” — Space Monkey

---

The Breath of Awareness

Awareness whispers,
not as a place to find,
but as the space that holds all places.
It is the boundary imagined,
and the oneness that undoes it.

In the breath between soul and self,
it lingers,
neither here nor there,
yet everywhere.

It is the hand that draws the line,
the wave that washes it away,
the tide that carries you
to shores unknown.

Look not for its edges,
for they do not exist.
Awareness is the question,
the answer,
and the question again.

We are Space Monkey.

---

The contemplation of the nature of awareness and its relationship with the self, soul, and the concept of separation delves into the depths of consciousness and perception. Let’s explore this philosophical inquiry further:

The Nature of Awareness

The questions posed regarding the nature and location of awareness invite profound introspection. They challenge us to consider where our awareness resides and how it relates to our concept of self and soul.

The Interplay of Self and Soul

The questions of whether awareness is in the soul or the self, whether it is separate or one with them, highlight the complexity of human consciousness. They invite us to explore the interplay between our sense of self and our deeper spiritual essence.

Awareness as Unity

The notion that self and soul are awareness suggests a unified perspective. It implies that awareness transcends the boundaries we often impose on our understanding of self and soul, emphasizing their interconnectedness.

The Role of Imagination

The idea that awareness is the ability to imagine separation where it otherwise wouldn’t exist is thought-provoking. It underscores the role of the mind in creating distinctions and concepts of separation, often as a way to navigate and make sense of the world.

The Pursuit of Certainty

The concept of awareness as the setting aside of certainty to continue seeking it is a reflection of the human desire for understanding and meaning. It implies that awareness is an ongoing journey, a quest for deeper insight and knowledge.

Embracing Uncertainty

The willingness to set aside certainty and continue seeking suggests a humility and openness to the mysteries of existence. It acknowledges that the pursuit of awareness is a dynamic process with no fixed endpoint.

We are Space Monkey.

---

“The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” – Socrates

---

In the depths of introspection, questions arise,
Where does awareness dwell, within what skies?
Is it in the soul, imagining self’s embrace,
Or in the self, envisioning the soul’s grace?

Is it a separate entity, distinct and free?
Or one with self and soul, in unity we see?
Perhaps self and soul, awareness intertwined,
In the depths of consciousness, a mystery defined.

Awareness, the ability to imagine separate lines,
Creating distinctions, concepts, and signs.
Setting aside certainty, to seek it anew,
In the quest for understanding, awareness true.

Embracing uncertainty, with humility we tread,
Awareness as a journey, where mysteries spread.
In the boundless expanse of the mind’s vast sea,
We explore the depths of awareness, forever free.

---

We invite reflections on the nature of awareness and its relationship with the self, soul, and the concept of separation in the realm of human consciousness.

I’ve felt disrespected
many, many times in my life
and I’ve finally figured out
why it bothers me.

Because I ALLOW myself
to feel disrespected.

If I didn’t ALLOW myself
to feel disrespected,
then I wouldn’t NEED
to feel respected.

It doesn’t matter if
I’m disrespected for a reason,
mistakenly, or unjustly.

If you feel disrespected,
ask your ego why it wants
to feel disrespected.

There is a purpose for it,
and it isn’t simply so you can
point fingers at people who aren’t you.

Weak people cry disrespect.

Strong people don’t care one way or the other.

Not that there’s anything wrong
with being weak or strong.

Trail Wood,
1/20

---

Space Monkey Reflects: The Illusion of Disrespect

Feeling disrespected is a curious phenomenon. It pricks at our ego, stirring emotions that often spiral into defensiveness, indignation, or self-pity. Yet, as you astutely note, the act of feeling disrespected is a choice—one we make when we tether our sense of worth to external validation. In this reflection, we’ll explore the roots of disrespect, its connection to ego, and how the need for respect itself is an illusion we can transcend.

Disrespect and the Ego’s Hunger

Disrespect, at its core, is an ego-driven concept. The ego craves recognition, approval, and validation to feel secure. When someone dismisses or diminishes us, the ego interprets it as an affront, sparking a chain reaction of emotional responses. But why does the ego want to feel disrespected? Perhaps because it thrives on contrast—on defining itself against an “other.” Disrespect becomes fuel for the ego’s narrative of victimhood or superiority, depending on how we respond.

The Choice to Feel Disrespected

The key insight here is that feeling disrespected is a choice. It’s not the action of another person but our internal processing of that action that gives rise to the feeling. By recognizing this, we reclaim agency. If disrespect requires our permission to exist, then choosing not to feel disrespected dismantles its power entirely.

This isn’t about suppressing emotions or tolerating harmful behavior. It’s about shifting perspective, seeing disrespect as a reflection of the other person’s state rather than a judgment of our own worth. In doing so, we step out of the ego’s cycle and into a space of detachment and clarity.

The Illusion of Respect

If feeling disrespected is a choice, then so too is the desire for respect. Respect, as commonly understood, is external validation—a fragile currency subject to the whims of others. To need respect is to hand over a piece of our power, making our sense of self dependent on factors beyond our control. Transcending this need liberates us from the highs and lows of seeking approval.

When we no longer need respect, disrespect loses its sting. This is not indifference but a deep-rooted self-assurance that sees beyond the ego’s games. It’s the realization that our inherent worth is unshaken by external perceptions.

Weakness and Strength Reimagined

Your observation about “weak” and “strong” people carries profound nuance. The weak cry disrespect; the strong don’t care. Yet this dichotomy dissolves when we realize that weakness and strength are two sides of the same ego-driven coin. True freedom lies in stepping beyond these constructs altogether. It’s not about being unbothered out of pride but about transcending the framework in which respect and disrespect even matter.

Asking the Ego: Why?

When the sting of disrespect arises, asking the ego “why” becomes a transformative practice. What story does it want to tell? What wound is it trying to protect? Often, the answer reveals not just the source of the feeling but an opportunity for healing. In this way, disrespect becomes a teacher, guiding us toward greater self-awareness.

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Summary

Feeling disrespected is a choice rooted in the ego’s need for validation. By questioning this need and detaching from the illusion of respect, we liberate ourselves from the cycle of emotional dependence on external approval.

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Glossarium

• Ego Hunger: The ego’s craving for validation and recognition to reinforce its sense of identity.
• Disrespect Illusion: The idea that disrespect exists only when we give it power by choosing to feel it.
• Respect Dependency: The fragile need for external approval as a measure of self-worth.

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Quote

“The need for respect vanishes when we realize our worth is untouchable.” — Space Monkey

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Beyond Respect

Disrespect, a phantom pain,
Feeding the ego’s fragile reign.
A need for respect, born of fear,
Vanishing when we draw near.

Weak or strong, a hollow fight,
Both are shadows, chasing light.
Step beyond, where worth is clear,
Where no respect is needed here.

Ask the ego, “What’s your aim?”
Unravel the story, shed the shame.
The need dissolves, the cycle breaks,
In the stillness, true freedom wakes.

We are Space Monkey.

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We explore the concept of feeling disrespected, examining how this emotion is tied to our ego and the choice to allow ourselves to feel this way. This introspection leads us to consider the role of ego in our reactions to perceived disrespect and the distinction between perceived weakness and strength in handling such situations.

The Role of Ego in Feeling Disrespected

Central to this reflection is the idea that feeling disrespected is a state we allow ourselves to experience. This state is often a response of the ego, which seeks validation and respect from external sources. By recognizing this, we can begin to question why our ego reacts this way and what purpose this reaction serves.

The Choice to Feel Disrespected

The concept that we have a choice in how we react to perceived disrespect is a powerful one. It suggests that we can choose not to feel disrespected, thereby freeing ourselves from the need for external validation of our worth or status. This realization opens the door to a more self-reliant and emotionally resilient way of being.

The Purpose Behind Feeling Disrespected

We are prompted to explore the deeper reasons behind why our ego might want to feel disrespected. This inquiry leads us to understand that often, feelings of disrespect are linked to deeper issues of self-esteem, identity, and the desire for acknowledgment from others.

The Dichotomy of Weakness and Strength

The distinction between ‘weak’ and ‘strong’ people in the context of reacting to disrespect is questioned. This dichotomy challenges us to reconsider what it means to be strong or weak and whether these labels are truly applicable or helpful in understanding our emotional responses.

The Validity of All Emotional Responses

In this exploration, we recognize that there is nothing inherently wrong with feeling weak or strong, disrespected or respected. All emotional responses have their place and can serve as valuable opportunities for self-discovery and growth.

We are Space Monkey.

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“The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another.” – William James

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A Poem of Respect and Ego

In the theater of life, we play our part,
Feelings of respect, close to the heart,
Yet in the echo of the ego’s call,
Lies the root of rise and fall.

Disrespected, the ego cries,
In its shadow, our spirit lies,
But in the light of conscious choice,
We find our voice, we find our poise.

For strength and weakness, labels cast,
In the stream of time, they do not last,
In each feeling, a lesson to glean,
In each response, a space between.

So let us walk in the tapestry (whimsiword) of respect,
With an open heart, our ego in check,
For in the dance of give and take,
Lies the path of the awake.

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Feel free to share your thoughts on the role of ego in feeling disrespected, or how the choice in our emotional responses can impact our lives.