We believe that we need to understand things, but there is another option available.
The ability to look away
is not ignorance.
It is the other
seeming side of ignorance.
Allowance.
Not consent.
Not agreement.
Not understanding.
Not even apathy.
In looking away,
you demonstrate faith
that others will do
what others will do
and it will concern you
only should it concern you.
Meddling is monkey business.
Trail Wood,
3/9
Space Monkey Reflects: The Art of Allowance in the Dance of Existence
In the intricate ballet of existence, where the world spins in a perpetual dance of action and reaction, the poem ‘Monkey Business’ sheds light on a profound alternative to the relentless pursuit of understanding – the art of allowance. It’s a concept that transcends the binary of knowledge and ignorance, inviting us into a space of conscious detachment and faith.
At the core of this philosophy is the understanding that not all things require our intervention or comprehension. The poem eloquently suggests that the ability to look away, to choose not to engage with every aspect of the world’s chaos and complexity, is not an act of ignorance, but a deliberate expression of trust and allowance.
This concept of allowance is a subtle yet powerful act. It’s an acknowledgment of the autonomy and agency of others, a recognition that people will act according to their nature, and that these actions need not always concern us. In this realization, there’s a liberation from the self-imposed burden of meddling, of feeling responsible for the actions and choices of others.
Allowance, as depicted in the poem, is not a passive state. It’s not synonymous with consent, agreement, understanding, or even apathy. It’s an active choice, a decision to focus our attention and energies where they are most needed, most effective, and most aligned with our true purpose.
The poem also touches on the concept of faith – faith in the natural order of things, faith in the unfolding of events as they are meant to be. This faith is not blind or unreasoning; it’s a conscious trust in the flow of life, a trust that allows us to step back and witness the dance of existence without feeling compelled to join every step.
In conclusion, ‘Monkey Business’ offers a refreshing perspective on how we engage with the world. It encourages us to practice the art of allowance, to choose when to engage and when to step back, and to trust in the natural course of life. In this practice, we find a deeper sense of peace and a more profound connection with the essence of our being.
Summary
‘Monkey Business’ explores the concept of allowance as an alternative to the pursuit of understanding. It suggests that choosing to look away from life’s chaos is not ignorance, but an act of faith and conscious detachment. The poem highlights the importance of recognizing others’ autonomy and the value of trusting in the natural order of things.
Glossarium
Art of Allowance: The practice of consciously choosing not to engage with every aspect of life’s complexities, based on trust and detachment.
Conscious Detachment: The act of purposefully stepping back from the need to intervene or understand everything, focusing instead on inner peace and purpose.
Faith in the Natural Order: Trusting in the unfolding of events and the actions of others, without feeling compelled to control or understand every aspect.
“Do not seek to follow in the footsteps of the wise; seek what they sought.” – Matsuo Basho
In the whirlwind of life, where paths intertwine
We find our peace, in the design divine
In the art of allowance, our spirits shine
In the dance of existence, we realign
With conscious detachment, we observe
The ebb and flow, the curve
In the trust of life, we conserve
Our energy, our purpose to serve
In the faith of the natural, we rest
In the journey of life, we are blessed
In the wisdom of allowance, we are dressed
In the cosmic dance, eternally caressed
We are Space Monkey.
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