Formality
Formality
is like formaldehyde,
preserving the
old dead ways
because
for some reason
we’re afraid
of losing them.
We actually BELIEVE
that it is a dishonor
to change the ways
of our ancestors.
Our ancestors
are laughing at us.
They’re dead.
These spirits now see the game
as nothing more than a game,
which we continue to play
so seriously and politely.
Much to their amusement.
So play on, dear monkeys.
Play on.
12/26
Space Monkey Reflects: Formality
Formality, like formaldehyde, preserves traditions long past their expiration date. It keeps the “old dead ways” intact, holding them up as sacred and immutable. But why? Is it out of respect for our ancestors, or is it simply fear of change masquerading as reverence?
The Weight of Tradition
Traditions often carry an unspoken weight. They are the frameworks handed down to us, shaping our behaviors, beliefs, and rituals. But as time marches on, these frameworks can become less relevant, more rigid, and less about meaning and more about maintenance.
We convince ourselves that altering these traditions dishonors those who came before us. Yet, our ancestors were once innovators themselves, adapting to the challenges and realities of their own times. It is ironic that in preserving their ways, we often stifle the very spirit of change that defined them.
The Ancestors’ Perspective
If our ancestors could observe us now, they might not feel dishonored by change. Instead, they might chuckle at our seriousness, our polite adherence to rituals they likely invented on the fly. For them, these traditions were not sacred; they were pragmatic, a way to bring order or meaning to their lives.
From their new perspective, as spirits detached from the material world, they might see life as the playful game it truly is. And they might encourage us to play it differently—to innovate, to adapt, to embrace the fluidity of existence.
The Fear of Loss
Our clinging to formality is often rooted in fear—the fear of losing connection, identity, or meaning. Yet, true connection lies not in the rigid repetition of old ways but in the spirit of intention behind them. When we understand this, we can honor our ancestors by creating new traditions that reflect the realities and needs of our present.
Change does not erase the past; it extends it. Each new tradition is a continuation of the story, a new chapter written with the same ink of humanity and imagination.
Playing the Game
What if we approached formality as a game, much like our ancestors might have done? What if we allowed ourselves to break the rules, to invent new ways of being, to play with the forms rather than be bound by them? In doing so, we honor not just the past but the present and future as well.
Formality, when seen through this lens, becomes a tool rather than a cage. It becomes a way to connect, to create, and to celebrate—not because we must, but because we choose to.
Summary
Formality preserves traditions, often out of fear of change rather than reverence. By embracing the playful spirit of our ancestors, we can honor the past while creating meaningful new traditions for the present and future.
Glossarium
- Tradiskeleton: The rigid framework of outdated traditions preserved beyond their relevance.
- Ancestorhumor: The imagined amusement of ancestors observing our serious adherence to their once-fluid practices.
- Gameform: The playful approach to formality, treating it as a tool for creativity and connection.
Quote
“Formality is not a sacred bond but a playful invitation to honor the past by reimagining the present.” — Space Monkey
The Laugh of the Ancestors
In jars of glowing liquid,
The scrolls and suits remain,
Not sacred, but preserved,
A memory’s playful stain.
The ghosts look down, amused,
At the rituals we hold dear.
They whisper, “Play, dear monkey,
There’s nothing real to fear.”
Traditions are just stories,
Rewritten with each turn.
So dance, create, and honor,
And let the old ways burn.
We are Space Monkey.
In the cosmic play where we, the Space Monkeys, twirl and leap, the concept of formality presents itself like a curious riddle. It is akin to formaldehyde, a preservative for the old, the archaic, the long-gone ways of being. This formality, rigid and unyielding, clings to the shadows of the past, afraid of the luminous dance of change.
Formality as a Preservation of the Past
The belief in formality as a sacred duty, an homage to our ancestors, is a curious illusion in our cosmic play. We hold on to traditions, customs, and ways of being with a tight grip, fearing that in their absence, we might lose a part of ourselves or dishonor those who came before us. Yet, in this adherence to the old ways, we often forget the essence of life’s playfulness and the ever-changing nature of the cosmos.
Ancestors’ Perspective on Formality
Our ancestors, now part of the cosmic essence, observe us with a gentle, amused gaze. From their vantage point, beyond the veil of mortality, they see the grand game for what it truly is – a playful, whimsical dance of existence. To them, our seriousness and politeness in preserving traditions appear quaint, almost comical. They, free from the binds of time and space, understand that the dance of life is meant to be fluid, ever-changing, and joyously unrestrained.
The Game of Life as Seen by the Departed
In the eyes of these spirited ancestors, life is but a game, a delightful spectacle where seriousness and formality are mere costumes we don for a while. They see us, the players, engrossed in our roles, often forgetting the inherent playfulness and transience of the cosmic theater. To them, the game is meant to be played with a light heart and a ready smile, not weighed down by the shackles of rigidity and formality.
Encouragement to Play On
So, as Space Monkeys, let us heed this celestial wisdom. Let us play on, casting aside the heavy cloak of formality to embrace the lightness of being. In our dance, let us remember that traditions and customs are not chains that bind us, but rather threads that can be woven into new patterns, new dances, new ways of being. Our play should be free, uninhibited, and joyful, a true reflection of the cosmic dance that surrounds us.
We Are Space Monkey
We are Space Monkey, the playful explorers of the universe’s mysteries. Our dance is not constrained by the rigid lines of formality but is a free-flowing expression of our joy, our curiosity, and our boundless spirit. In our play, we honor not just the past but the present and the future, weaving them together in a tapestry of eternal now.
Summary
In our cosmic journey, we encounter the concept of formality, likened to formaldehyde, preserving old ways out of fear and misplaced reverence. Our ancestors, now part of the cosmic essence, view this with amusement, understanding life as a playful game. They encourage us to shed formality and embrace the fluidity of existence. As Space Monkeys, we are urged to play on, to revel in the joy and freedom of the cosmic dance, and to remember that traditions are not chains but threads to be woven into new, vibrant patterns.
We invite reflections on this playful perspective, to share in the laughter and joy of our cosmic ancestors.
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