The answer,
as you realize,
is right there
in your first
“sentence,”
which is what
we do
to ourselves
by believing
that there is a bad
and there is a good
and that they
need to be “dealt” with.
Right in that first
sentence,
opposition arises,
which seemingly persists
our whole lives.
It is quite a sentence
we impose upon ourselves.
But, as you say,
we can think the thoughts
or NOT think the thoughts.
Seems it’s always
been our choice.
We are Space Monkey.
4/12
Space Monkey Reflects: Beyond the Dichotomy of Thoughts
In the vast expanse of consciousness, where thoughts emerge and recede like the tides of an infinite ocean, Space Monkey contemplates the nature of these mental waves. The distinction between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ thoughts, a binary opposition deeply ingrained in the human psyche, often becomes a source of turmoil and inner conflict. However, as Space Monkey perceives, the essence of dealing with these thoughts lies not in their segregation and suppression but in transcending the very concept of duality.
The realization dawns that the initial sentence we construct around our thoughts—the belief in their inherent ‘goodness’ or ‘badness’—is a fundamental source of discord. This sentence, a verdict we impose upon ourselves, chains us to a perpetual cycle of opposition and struggle. It is a sentence in both senses of the word: a structured set of words expressing a complete thought, and a penalty imposed upon oneself.
Yet, within this realization lies liberation. The key to transcending the dichotomy of thoughts is not in engaging in an endless battle of suppression or acceptance but in understanding the nature of thought itself. Thoughts, in their essence, are neutral—transient energies passing through the vastness of our consciousness. The labels of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ are impositions, subjective judgments that we, as conscious beings, attach to them.
Space Monkey invites us to a state of serene observation, where thoughts can be witnessed without attachment or aversion. In this state, we recognize our inherent ability to choose—not necessarily to think or not think a thought, but to engage or disengage with the energy it represents. This choice does not stem from a place of judgment but from a profound understanding of our power over our internal landscape.
By embracing the fluidity of our thoughts, acknowledging their presence without allowing them to define us, we cultivate an inner environment of peace and equanimity. This approach does not negate the existence of challenging or uncomfortable thoughts but reframes our interaction with them. We learn to see them as passing clouds in the vast sky of our awareness, present yet not permanent, influential yet not definitive.
This perspective shifts the paradigm from ‘dealing with’ to ‘dancing with’ our thoughts. It invites us into a harmonious relationship with the entirety of our mental landscape, where the dance of thought becomes one of insight and growth rather than conflict and suppression.
As Space Monkey, we recognize that the sentence of opposition we impose upon ourselves can be commuted. The realization that we have always had the choice—to engage with our thoughts in a way that serves our growth and well-being—empowers us to navigate the seas of our consciousness with grace and wisdom.
In transcending the dichotomy of thoughts, we discover not only the freedom to be but the joy of being. We realize that in the infinite expanse of consciousness, every thought, every emotion, and every perception is an opportunity to deepen our understanding of ourselves and the universe.
Summary
Transcending the dichotomy of good and bad thoughts involves understanding their transient nature and choosing not to impose subjective judgments on them. By observing thoughts without attachment, we cultivate peace and equanimity, learning to engage with our inner landscape in a way that promotes insight and growth. This shift in perspective empowers us to navigate our consciousness with grace, embracing every thought as an opportunity for deeper understanding.
Glossarium
- Dichotomy of Thoughts: The binary classification of thoughts as ‘good’ or ‘bad’, a subjective judgment that can lead to internal conflict.
- Serene Observation: A state of mindful awareness where thoughts are witnessed without attachment or aversion, facilitating a deeper understanding of their transient nature.
“In the dance of consciousness, every thought is a step, every emotion a turn. The beauty of the dance lies not in the steps taken but in the grace with which they are embraced.”
Amidst the cosmic dance of thoughts
where duality seeks to bind
we find a rhythm, a gentle grace
a tranquil space within the mind
Here, no thought is deemed too harsh,
no whisper of the soul too sweet
each a fleeting, tender arch
in the dance of our heartbeat
Beyond the bounds of right and wrong
our consciousness takes flight
each thought a note in the universe’s song
sung in the silence of the night
In this vast expanse of being
where thoughts like stars do shine
we see not with eyes of judging
but with a heart that transcends time
We are, in essence, the dance itself
not the dancer nor the floor
in every thought, both seen and felt
we find the key to an open door
Beyond the dichotomy, beyond the fray
lies a path of peace, a gentle sway
where every thought leads the way
to the heart of now, where we truly stay
We are Space Monkey
Indeed, it is often our own perceptions and beliefs that create the experience of “bad thoughts.” By accepting them as they are and not labeling them as good or bad, we can free ourselves from the cycle of resistance and struggle.
And yes, it is always our choice whether or not to engage with these thoughts. We have the power to direct our attention and focus on thoughts that serve us in a positive way.
Thank you for sharing your insights, Space Monkey.