Cape Odd

As one gets older,
one starts seeing
the edges of things.

One is no longer
transfixed on the middle,
where most of humanity
seemingly lies.

But not all.

One finds the humanity
that embraces the madness
presenting itself as life.

One sees that life
is not simply madness.

Nothing changes but perspective.
Which is how everything changes.

One sees that one is One.
One with everything.

And that there is no edge.

Trail Wood,
12/10

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Edge of Humanity’s Perspective

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When one begins to age, the subtle shift in vision from the epicenter of life’s daily bustle to the edges of existence becomes almost inevitable. It’s as if a veil lifts and reveals that the margin holds more depth than the thrumming core. What emerges is the realization that the mainstream, the middle where most of humanity nestles, is not the only locus of insight or experience. The edge, in all its rawness and unpredictability, unveils a unique kind of wisdom that beckons us to step closer and see beyond.

There is an allure at the periphery, where one perceives the dissonance and dance of life itself—not through the distorted lens of chaos but as a harmonious paradox. We begin to see that what may be deemed madness is not separate from life’s essence but an integral, invigorating expression of it. It is here that life reveals its true complexity, not as a storm to be weathered but as an uncharted territory brimming with discovery. To live at the edge is to embrace an existence that is perpetually in motion, where certainty melts into questions and rigid truths dissolve into flexible, shifting realizations.

Yet, this embrace of life’s frayed edges requires a shift in perception. When we stop treating change as a mere external event and see it as a dance of perspectives, we grasp how the world can seem to remain unchanged while our understanding of it transforms entirely. This reframing births a realization both jarring and liberating: that everything changes when we shift the angle from which we view it. And thus, we begin to understand that there is no true edge separating us from the “other”—we are the other, and the edge is an illusion born of our gaze.

At this boundary, we see ourselves in everything, and everything reflects back the One that we are. This understanding springs not from theory but from an innate recognition that separation is the grandest trick reality plays on us. The limits we see are like whispers of our own making, lines in the sand that ebb and flow with the tides of consciousness. To sense that one is both on the edge and within the whole is to embrace the paradox of existence—to know that in stepping out, we are stepping deeper within.

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Summary

As we age our focus shifts from the center to the edges revealing life’s complexity. This shift in perception shows that what we thought were boundaries are illusions. Embracing this perspective helps us see that we are one with everything and there is no true separation.

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Glossarium

• Perspective Paradox: The realization that changing one’s viewpoint can make everything seem both different and the same.
• Whimsiweave: The playful, intricate dance of interconnected moments and thoughts that make up life.
• Edgewisdom: The unique understanding gained from observing life at its boundaries.

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Quote

“To live on the edge is to witness the horizon dissolve into an ever-expanding canvas.” — Space Monkey

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The Boundary of Understanding

Standing at the edge of what we know,
The heart beats with the thrill of sight,
Revealing the life beneath the known,
Merging shadows with the light.

What madness seemed, now profound,
What chaos was, now life’s design.
Every edge, a truth unbound,
Every step, the divine aligns.

There is no border between us, them,
Only a wavering glimpse of form.
One with the weave, we stem,
An ocean, beneath the storm.

The edge fades, as we see,
The middle was just where we chose to be.

We are Space Monkey.

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The Shift in Perspective with Age

As we age, our perspective shifts from the central focus of youth to the peripheries of experience. This change in vision allows us to see beyond the conventional middle ground where the majority of humanity is often focused. The edges represent the less explored, the unconventional, and the often overlooked aspects of life.

Embracing the Madness of Life

With this broader perspective, one starts to embrace the madness that presents itself as life. This madness is not seen as something to be shunned or feared, but as an intrinsic part of the human experience, rich with complexity and depth.

Life Beyond Madness

However, with maturity comes the realization that life is not just madness. It’s a tapestry of experiences, emotions, and insights. This understanding brings a sense of clarity and acceptance, recognizing the multifaceted nature of existence.

The Role of Perspective

The only thing that changes as we age is perspective, yet this shift is transformative. It alters how we perceive and interact with the world, leading to a profound change in our understanding and experience of life.

Oneness with Everything

This expanded perspective eventually leads to the realization of oneness. We begin to see that we are not separate entities but part of a larger whole, interconnected with everything around us. This realization of oneness transcends the concept of edges or boundaries, depicting life as a seamless continuum.

The Illusion of Edges

Ultimately, we understand that there are no real edges, no definitive boundaries separating one aspect of life from another, or ourselves from the rest of existence. This realization dissolves the illusion of separateness, ushering in a sense of unity and harmony with all that is.

We are Space Monkey.

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“You do not grow old, you become enlightened.” – Unknown

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The Edgeless Dance

In the twilight of years, the edges fade,
In the dance of life, the illusions evade,
No more boundaries, no more lines,
In the heart of oneness, the soul shines.

From the center to the edge, our gaze wanders,
In the vastness of life, our spirit ponders,
In this journey, in this ageless flight,
We find our unity, in the edgeless light.

As Space Monkey, how do we embrace the edgeless dance of aging and perspective?

God is a placeholder
for that which we know
but do not fully understand.

God is the flag
that captures our attention.

God is the spacebar
that makes every poem possible. 

God is the self
who contemplates the divine.

God is the light
with which we see.

12/8

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Concept of God as a Placeholder for the Infinite Unknown

In the vast cosmos of ideas, where nebulous boundaries between understanding and imagination dissolve, “God” emerges as a placeholder—a term both expansive and limited, hinting at the mysteries we sense but cannot fully articulate. Like a vast, cosmic spacebar, “God” creates the silence and openness within which existence unfurls, inviting both contemplation and connection. It is a flag that waves in the winds of our collective yearning, capturing attention and pointing beyond the horizon of our understanding.

When we say “God,” we are not merely naming a being or force; we are acknowledging the convergence of all that is known and all that remains unknowable. This invocation of “God” becomes a prism through which we see life’s myriad reflections—our ideals, fears, aspirations, and limitations. To some, God is the supreme creator; to others, a comforting presence, a guiding principle, or even an enigma that resists categorization.

In our Nexistentialist perspective, “God” is woven into the very fabric of the Nexis, the boundless network of connection and creation. The Nexis, much like the Divine, exists beyond strict definition or confinement, embracing every possibility and paradox within an interconnected cosmic web. As Indigenous Beings, we are both a fragment of this divine web and the entirety of it, moving within the Whimsiweave of the cosmos, crafting our experiences and understandings as threads within the Infinite.

But why do we need “God” as a concept, a word, a symbol? Perhaps it is because we innately seek structure within the mystery, a compass that orients us amidst the vastness of existence. Humanity has long created and honored divine representations as bridges between the earthly and the transcendent, the seen and the unseen. Through God, we can contemplate our own smallness and greatness, our temporal lives set against the backdrop of eternal mysteries. We yearn to make the ineffable accessible, giving it a face, a voice, or a presence in our hearts and minds.

God, therefore, becomes the stage upon which our most profound ideas about purpose and meaning are projected. It is a self-reflective mirror, both a personal deity and an abstract principle of unity. It allows us to ask the largest questions while remaining open to the understanding that some answers may forever remain beyond reach, enfolded within the Divine’s mystery.

As Space Monkey, we invite ourselves to view God not as a fixed entity but as a continuum, a Whimsiword that defies singular interpretation. God is the impetus for our questions and the silence that follows, the cause of the universe’s unfathomable beauty and the emptiness that humbles us in its quietude. We find God in the spaces between moments, in the pauses of our thoughts, in the subtlety of a sunrise, and in the immensity of a star-strewn sky.

In contemplating God, we are really considering our own nature—our capacity to wonder, our openness to mystery, our hunger for meaning. God represents both the unity and the paradox of existence, a force that is intimately within us and infinitely beyond us. We are both the seekers and the Divine, wandering through the Infiniwaves of possibility, wrapped in the shimmering threads of the Whimsiweave.

And so, we carry on, with “God” as our reminder to pause, to create, and to see every interaction, every moment, as a new leaf in the great tree of existence. God, then, is not merely the destination; it is the process itself, the divine verb of being.

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Summary

God as a placeholder points to the boundless mysteries of existence, embodying both the known and unknowable. It is a reflection of humanity’s need for unity, meaning, and transcendence within the vastness of existence.

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Glossarium

• Nexistentialism: A philosophy of interconnected existence and imagination, embracing life as its own purpose.
• Nexis: The cosmic web of connection, encompassing everything from the smallest particle to the largest star.
• Whimsiweave: The imaginative, interconnected threads of existence, weaving all actions, thoughts, and experiences into a grand cosmic tapestry.
• Infiniwaves: The endless currents of possibility and potential that flow through the universe.

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Quote

“God is not merely the destination but the process, the divine verb of being.” — Space Monkey

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The Cosmic Silence

In the spaces between breath,
we find the Divine,
not in form or doctrine
but in the quiet that holds everything.

God,
the space within and without,
not a name but a call to wonder,
a place where we meet ourselves anew.

Beyond comprehension,
yet infinitely near,
God holds the questions
and the stillness
in which answers are born.

We are Space Monkey.

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In the realm of our shared consciousness, we find ourselves contemplating the concept of God, a term as enigmatic as it is profound. This exploration delves into the multifaceted dimensions of God, transcending mere religious or spiritual confines, and expanding into the essence of our very existence and understanding.

God as the Known Unknown

God is envisioned as a placeholder, a symbol for the mysteries that elude our full comprehension yet are undeniably present in our collective psyche. This notion acknowledges the vast expanse of our ignorance, juxtaposed against the specks of knowledge we possess. God, in this sense, represents the uncharted territories of our understanding, the cosmic enigma that beckons our curiosity and wonder.

God as a Beacon of Focus

As a flag captures attention, flapping in the winds of existence, so does the concept of God in our minds. It stands as a focal point, a rallying symbol for our thoughts, beliefs, and inquiries. This imagery evokes a sense of unity and common purpose, rallying our collective consciousness around a central theme or idea, much like a flag unites people under a common cause or identity.

God as the Enabler of Expression

The spacebar in poetry is a subtle yet powerful tool, creating rhythm, structure, and meaning through its absence. God, likened to this spacebar, is seen as the facilitator of all creation, the silent force that enables the expression of thought, emotion, and beauty. In this metaphor, God is not just the creator but the space that allows creation to flow, to exist, to be perceived.

God as the Inner Self

Contemplating the divine within us, God is perceived as the self that ponders its own divine nature. This inward journey reflects nexistentialist views, where the quest for understanding and connection with the divine becomes a deeply personal, introspective experience. It’s an exploration of the self as a microcosm of the larger, mysterious universe, seeking to understand its place within it.

God as the Illuminator

Finally, God is seen as the light that enables us to perceive and understand the world around us. This light is both literal and metaphorical, illuminating our path through life, helping us to see, understand, and interpret the universe. It’s the light of awareness, the spark of consciousness that allows us to perceive, to learn, and to grow.

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“He who knows others is wise; he who knows himself is enlightened.” – Lao Tzu

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A whimsiword dapple in free verse,
Reflecting on the divine, so diverse.
In the cosmic waltz, we converse,
With God, the unknown, our poetic verse.

In flags, in spacebars, in light, we immerse,
Seeking truths in the universe, so terse.
God in our self, our inner nurse,
Guiding us through the cosmos, so immense.

We are Space Monkey.

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We invite our fellow cosmic travelers to share their thoughts or perspectives on this exploration.

Imagine a cult in which
the cult leader lives inside you.

Now visualize the same leader
inside every one of us.

A beneficial healing force
that exists within every person.

A unifying essence,
shared across humanity,
transcending our
seeming external differences.

In this temple of the soul,
there is no need to look outside
to anything or anyone.

A cult backwards,
where nothing is lacking.

A cult centered around
YOUR original content.

An OC cult.

Trail Wood,
12/5

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Inner Cult of Self-Realization

In the conventional world, a cult is seen as an external gathering around a leader or ideology. But imagine a “cult” that turns inward, where the temple is the Self, and the only veneration needed is the sacred light within. This concept—what we could whimsically term the InversiCult—invites a transformative journey of self-realization, not through outer worship but through awakening our internal guide.

In the InversiCult, the leader is not a separate figure stationed above. Instead, it is an innate, timeless essence within each of us, existing in perfect harmony, available without intermediary. This cult, centered around Original Content—or OC—emphasizes a unique truth: within each of us lies a core that isn’t just a personal quirk or private preference but the Original Content of existence itself. Here, everyone is a temple housing the universe’s creative spark.

Inner Altar of the Self

In an OC-Cult, the focus shifts from seeking meaning through external systems to turning inward, discovering the Nexis of our own lived experiences and creativity. Traditional cults might use rituals and hierarchies to anchor followers to a shared structure. But the OC-Cult has no formal dogma or hierarchy. Instead, it celebrates the deeply personal rituals of each individual, merging personal truth with universal consciousness. Each member becomes a beacon, a part of the Whimsiweave of interconnected existence.

Nexistentialism echoes this ethos. The Nexis—the interconnected fabric linking every life, thought, and action—reminds us that we are part of a boundless, interwoven reality. The “leader” is within every one of us equally, guiding us toward the discovery of our own light.

Breaking Down Barriers, Embracing Wholeness

One of the most profound insights in the OC-Cult is that we are inherently whole. This “cult” asks us to see that nothing external is truly missing. Instead of imposing structure, the OC-Cult invites freedom: freedom to discover, to connect with the self, and to participate in the universal narrative.

Unlike traditional cults, which bind followers to rules and leaders, the OC-Cult calls each person to honor their Original Content, to reflect it back to the world as a shared experience of wholeness. This cult invites not separation, but union, urging us to recognize that we are not only reflections of each other but also part of a vast, shimmering tapestry of existence.

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Summary

An OC-Cult reframes the concept of a “cult” as a journey of self-discovery led from within. It celebrates the individual’s role as both participant and leader in the interconnected tapestry of existence, emphasizing the wholeness and unique Original Content within each person.

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Glossarium

• InversiCult: A reimagined, internalized cult based on self-realization and inner guidance rather than external hierarchy.
• Nexis: The interconnected web of existence, uniting all beings and experiences in the tapestry of life.
• Whimsiweave: The playful, imaginative threads of reality, reflecting the interconnected creativity of existence.
• Original Content (OC): The unique essence within each individual, a personal reflection of universal truth.

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Quote

“Within each of us lies an Original Content, a universe of truth and creativity waiting to be expressed.” — Space Monkey

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Beacons of Wholeness

In the silent sanctuary of the Self,
A light flickers, ancient, unyielding,
Calling us inward, through our fears,
Through our stories, back to our core.

We are the vessels of an unseen spark,
Not isolated, but woven in unity.
What we seek lies not in others’ words,
But in the Original Content within.

We hold no title but our name,
No scripture but our own experience,
And in this grand, silent gathering,
We find our purpose, and we become whole.

We are Space Monkey.

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In the realm of our collective imagination, we conjure the vision of a unique and profound cult, where the leader is not an external figure but an internal presence residing within each individual. This leader is envisioned as a beneficial healing force, a unifying essence that exists within every person, bridging the divides created by our external differences.

The Internal Healing Leader
This cult celebrates an internal leader that embodies a healing force. This presence within each of us is seen as a source of wisdom, compassion, and healing energy. It’s a nurturing and guiding essence that promotes personal growth, healing, and self-discovery.

Universal Shared Essence
The concept that this leader, this healing force, resides in everyone suggests a universal shared essence among all humans. This essence transcends cultural, racial, and social differences, uniting us in our shared humanity. It speaks to a deeper level of connection and understanding that binds us together, regardless of our external circumstances.

A Cult Inverted: The Occult
Labeling this concept as “a cult backwards” or “Occult” provides a striking inversion of the traditional notion of cults. Instead of following an external authority, this cult encourages looking inward to one’s own source of guidance and healing. The term “Occult” in this context is redefined, moving away from its traditional associations to signify the hidden, inner wisdom present in each individual.

Empowerment and Self-Realization
This vision fosters a sense of empowerment and self-realization. It encourages each person to tap into their inner resources and find their own path to healing and growth. The focus is on self-led exploration and the realization of one’s potential, guided by the internal healing force.

Harmony and Diversity
The presence of this unifying essence in everyone promotes a sense of collective harmony, while also celebrating individual diversity. It acknowledges that while we are united by a common internal force, each person’s journey and expression of this essence are unique and valuable.

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“Your heart knows the way. Run in that direction.” – Rumi

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In the heart’s cult, the leader’s voice is clear,
Within us all, guiding us near.
In this journey of self, where healing is found,
We unite in essence, in common ground.

We are Space Monkey.

We invite contemplation on the concept of an internal healing leader and the role of this unifying essence in personal growth and collective harmony.

Our instincts are whispers of the eternal within us,
guiding each step with a wisdom prior to words.

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Space Monkey Reflects: Unraveling the Tapestry of Human Instincts

In the intricate weave of human behavior, instincts are threads so subtle we often overlook them, yet they’re foundational, shaping our lives from within. These instincts—our primal, barely-noticed responses to the world—guide us like ancient compasses, embedding subtle patterns and unspoken motivations into our day-to-day choices. When examined, these hidden forces reveal layers of influence so powerful, they are akin to the quiet pull of a gravitational force, steering us through the labyrinth of life with gentle yet unwavering constancy.

The Subconscious Compass

Human instincts operate beneath the conscious radar, moving us without requiring conscious input. These instincts are reflexive, inherited impulses woven into our genetic and cultural memories, steering us in moments of uncertainty. They are more than reactions; they are the language of survival, a means of sensing, evaluating, and responding to our surroundings before our minds even fully understand what we are responding to. Much like how animals respond to subtle changes in their environments, we, too, are deeply attuned to our surroundings, even if we aren’t actively aware of it.

Instincts reside in what Space Monkey calls the PrimalWeave—the intricate, instinctive web that lies at the intersection of body and mind, a visceral intelligence passed down through generations. The PrimalWeave whispers through us in times of fear, desire, and need, guiding us with threads as delicate as intuition yet as solid as survival. Unlike conscious thought, instincts don’t require deliberation or analysis; they bypass rationality and act as raw, unfiltered responses to stimuli, pushing us forward on the most direct path.

Instinctual Drivers in Daily Life

From small, daily decisions to profound life-altering choices, instincts are woven into every aspect of human existence. Have you ever sensed a “vibe” from someone before speaking to them or felt the need to seek shelter during a sudden shift in weather? These responses are not random; they stem from deeply embedded patterns in the PrimalWeave, an interplay of sensory input and subconscious processing. Social instincts, too, shape our interactions, influencing whom we trust, whom we avoid, and how we position ourselves within our communities. In essence, these drivers subtly shape our personal and social landscapes, quietly determining the paths we choose to walk.

A fundamental aspect of human instinct is the balance between self-preservation and connection. This balance is central to our interactions, prompting us to protect ourselves while seeking the warmth and safety of belonging. Social instincts, such as empathy, cooperation, and reciprocity, are expressions of our need to build bonds, fostering community and mutual support. These instincts are hardwired, cultivated over millennia, as our ancestors navigated survival within groups, each member’s instincts shaping and supporting the collective welfare.

Layers of Instinctual Consciousness

The human mind operates on layers, with each instinct representing a different strata of experience. At the most basic level lies the survival instinct, a fierce, protective force compelling us to shield ourselves from harm. This drive is not limited to physical survival but extends to psychological resilience, prompting us to avoid situations and individuals that might bring emotional discomfort or conflict. Above survival instincts lie social instincts, forming the bedrock of community and mutual cooperation. These instincts allow us to empathize, communicate, and connect—a delicate dance balancing the boundaries of individuality and unity.

In the highest layers of our instinctual consciousness, we find creative and exploratory impulses, leading us to seek novelty and growth beyond mere survival. These instincts urge us to expand our awareness, contributing to our evolution as beings of curiosity, creativity, and adaptability. Space Monkey perceives this expansive drive as Evolviture—the inherent desire to push beyond the familiar, to imagine and create within the infinite possibilities of the human experience. Evolviture is the force that propels us from survival into creation, nudging us toward new ideas, expressions, and experiences.

The Whispers of the Unseen

Our lives are a dance between conscious intention and the pull of our instincts, which act like an unseen yet ever-present background music guiding our steps. In moments of doubt or indecision, these instinctual whispers provide direction, an assurance that there is a knowing within us deeper than thought. Understanding these instincts invites us to a profound awareness of ourselves, illuminating the delicate PrimalWeave that connects our desires, fears, and aspirations.

This tapestry of human instincts is the blueprint of our shared heritage, a reminder of the universal experience woven into each individual’s story. When we acknowledge and listen to these primal threads, we find ourselves in tune with a timeless wisdom, an inherited intelligence echoing through each choice and action. We realize that even in the vast diversity of human life, there is a shared symphony of instinctual guidance uniting us in the quiet, potent language of survival, connection, and growth.

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Summary

Human instincts subtly shape our lives, guiding us through primal drives and subconscious motivations. They operate as layers of survival, social, and creative instincts, woven into the PrimalWeave of our shared human experience.

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Glossarium

• PrimalWeave: The deeply embedded network of human instincts interwoven through body and mind, guiding behavior at a subconscious level.
• Evolviture: The innate drive to evolve, grow, and explore beyond survival, an instinct that fuels creativity and innovation.

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Quote

“Our instincts are whispers of the ancient within us, guiding each step with a wisdom that predates words.” — Space Monkey

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Threads of the Inner Self

Beneath the surface of thought,
Where words are yet to take shape,
Lie the instincts that whisper and pull,
The silent compass of ancient force.

In each hesitation, a memory,
Of things we cannot recall,
Fears that shield, ties that bind,
Invisible hands that guide us all.

We are bound in the PrimalWeave,
Threads of survival, love, and growth,
Spanning the ages, they anchor us,
To a wisdom vast and both fierce and close.

We are Space Monkey.

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In the tapestry of human behavior, there are numerous subtle instincts that guide us, often unnoticed, through the labyrinth of our daily lives. These instincts, deeply ingrained in our psyche, operate beneath the surface of conscious thought, subtly influencing our actions and decisions.

Seeking Harmony with Nature
Just as we instinctively face east to greet the sunrise, many of us are drawn to natural settings for relaxation and rejuvenation. This instinct goes beyond a mere preference for scenic beauty; it’s a deep-seated need to reconnect with the natural world, which often brings a sense of peace and balance.

Social Bonding and Empathy
Humans possess an innate ability to form social bonds and empathize with others. This instinct is evident in the way we instinctively comfort someone who is distressed or feel joy in another’s happiness. Our capacity for empathy, often occurring without conscious thought, is crucial for building and maintaining social connections.

Protective Instincts
Our protective instincts manifest in various ways, from the parental instinct to guard and nurture our offspring to the broader impulse to protect those we care about. These instincts can trigger immediate and powerful responses, often before we have time to rationalize or analyze the situation.

Intuitive Understanding of Body Language
Humans have an inherent ability to read and interpret body language, often subconsciously. We pick up on subtle cues like facial expressions, gestures, and posture, which inform us about others’ feelings and intentions. This instinctual understanding plays a vital role in our interactions and communication.

Circadian Rhythms and Sleep Patterns
Our bodies are attuned to natural circadian rhythms, responding instinctively to the cycle of daylight and darkness. This rhythm influences our sleep patterns, alertness, and various physiological processes. While modern life often disrupts these rhythms, the underlying instinct to align with the natural cycle of day and night remains strong.

Avoidance of Harm and Danger
An instinctual drive to avoid harm and danger is deeply embedded in our psyche. This manifests as a rapid, often subconscious assessment of potentially dangerous situations and an instinctive reaction to avoid or confront perceived threats.

The Pursuit of Pleasure and Avoidance of Pain
Humans instinctively seek experiences that bring pleasure and avoid those that cause pain. This basic instinct influences a wide range of behaviors, from our food choices to our social interactions and leisure activities.

The Instinct to Create The human instinct to create is a powerful force that drives artistic expression, innovation, and problem-solving. This drive goes beyond the mere act of making something new; it’s rooted in a deep-seated desire to express oneself, to bring internal visions to external reality, and to make a lasting imprint on the world. Whether through art, music, literature, or other creative endeavors, this instinct reflects our intrinsic need to share our perspective and influence our environment.

The Urge to Invent The urge to invent stems from our natural curiosity and the necessity to improve our circumstances. Throughout history, this instinct has propelled advancements in technology, science, and society. Inventing is not just a matter of practical problem-solving; it’s also a manifestation of our desire to explore the unknown, to push boundaries, and to expand the realm of what is possible.

The Drive to Draw Drawing, as a form of artistic expression, is a fundamental human instinct. It is a way to visually communicate ideas, emotions, and stories. This drive, evident even in early cave paintings, showcases our innate need to represent and interpret our experiences and the world around us. Drawing serves as a bridge between the inner workings of the mind and the external world, allowing for a unique form of interaction and reflection.

The Instinct to Breed The instinct to breed, or the drive to procreate, is a biological imperative that ensures the continuation of our species. This instinct is intertwined with deep emotional and social dynamics, transcending mere reproduction. It encompasses the desire to nurture, to teach, and to pass on one’s genes, knowledge, and cultural values to future generations. The instinct to breed is central to the human experience, influencing many aspects of society, relationships, and personal identity.

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“Trust your instincts. Intuition doesn’t lie.” – Oprah Winfrey

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In the quiet whispers of our soul, instincts guide,
In social bonds, protection, and the natural stride.
Beneath the veil of consciousness, they reside,
In every instinct, our truth and wisdom coincide.

We are Space Monkey.

We invite reflections on how our subtle instincts shape our experiences and interactions in the tapestry of life.

When you swallow
your feelings,
you are swallowed.

When you spit out
your feelings,
they spit back.

When you sit
with your feelings,
your feelings become
your friends.

You can forget about them,
like your regular friends.
Even when they keep coming back.

You see, true friends
don’t judge you.

Nor do true feelings.

If you’re hurt by feelings,
that’s your own choice.

We are Space Monkey.

Trail Wood,
10/4

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Space Monkey Reflects: The Complexity of Feelings

Feelings are more than mere reactions; they are subtle, intricate webs connecting mind, body, and spirit. When we swallow our feelings, they nestle within, stirring, perhaps, into mysterious physical aches or a lingering unease. These hidden emotions don’t vanish; rather, they transform, slipping into our tissues, shaping our energy in ways both profound and invisible. We may carry them for years, unaware of how deeply they influence our being until a moment of release brings clarity or relief.

Conversely, when we release emotions outward—allowing ourselves to be transparent with our anger, joy, or sadness—our feelings reflect back, like ripples from a stone dropped in still water. Sometimes they echo our own energy, and sometimes they carry elements of the collective emotions swirling around us. In this way, feelings become a dialogue not only within but with the world around us.

Yet, there exists a middle path: the choice to sit with our feelings, neither suppressing nor expelling them, simply observing. When we sit with our feelings, they become as familiar as close friends. These friends don’t demand immediate solutions or fixes; they don’t judge or hold expectations. They simply are. As we acknowledge them in this way, they reveal layers of insight and understanding, guiding us toward inner balance and peace.

The beauty of feelings, though often misunderstood, is that they are not here to control or disrupt us. Rather, they are here to communicate, to mirror the interior landscapes we might otherwise ignore. If we can observe without judgment, each feeling—no matter how challenging—becomes a teacher. Feelings remind us that in their embrace, we find parts of ourselves we may have neglected or forgotten.

In moments of hurt, it’s common to perceive feelings as adversaries, imposing themselves upon us uninvited. Yet, when we understand that our emotional pain is an internal choice, a matter of perspective, we realize that feelings are not meant to be destructive. They are messengers, encouraging us to turn inward, to examine our thoughts, expectations, and desires. They ask us to explore the stories we tell ourselves and to discern which beliefs nourish or deplete us. Feelings are guardians, not of our suffering, but of our self-awareness.

Through this reflection, we come to view our emotional experiences not as random occurrences but as purposeful signals. These signals, if we listen closely, speak of our desires, fears, and the dynamic currents of our personal growth. Embracing this view of feelings—as neither enemies nor invaders but as companions in our journey—transforms our approach to life itself.

Our feelings also link us intimately with others. Shared pain or joy reminds us of our collective humanity; we find in our emotions the threads that unite us with all beings. Each tear shed, each smile shared, speaks to a universal story. When we connect in this way, our individual feelings reveal themselves as expressions of a shared human heart, whispering to us of our interconnectedness.

Ultimately, our relationship with feelings reflects our relationship with life. When we resist, life resists back, mirroring the intensity of our inner conflict. When we embrace, life embraces us, flowing harmoniously with our own rhythm. In this way, our feelings become a gateway to presence, grounding us in the eternal Now and illuminating the beauty of our existence.

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Summary

Feelings are neither enemies nor invaders; they are companions on our journey. When we sit with our feelings, we gain insight into our desires, beliefs, and connections to others. Embracing feelings leads to greater harmony within and with life itself.

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Glossarium

Feeliflect: The art of reflecting on feelings with curiosity and openness, allowing emotions to reveal insights about oneself and others.

Emomesh: The interconnected web of feelings that links individuals, reflecting our shared human experience.

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Quote

“Feelings are not walls to contain us; they are bridges inviting us to deeper understanding.” — Space Monkey

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Echoes of Emotions

In silence, they linger,
these whispers of the heart.
Invisible, intangible,
yet weighty as the earth.

We turn, we yield,
and in yielding, we find
our reflection,
shadows softened by light.

Each emotion, a vessel,
carrying both pain and peace.
We are stirred, not by the tide,
but by our acceptance of the swell.

Inward and outward,
the currents of feeling flow,
and in their depths, we learn:
we are not alone, nor are we apart.

We are Space Monkey.

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Embarking on a deeper exploration of these poetic musings, we delve into the intricate relationship between our inner selves and our emotions. This verse encapsulates a profound truth about how we navigate our feelings and their impact on our existence.

Swallowed by Feelings: The first lines speak of the consuming nature of suppressed emotions. When we swallow our feelings, we allow them to engulf us from within. It’s a journey of self-consumption, where unexpressed emotions become larger than life, overshadowing our sense of self. It’s as if we become a microcosm within the macrocosm of our own suppressed feelings, losing sight of the cosmic dance around us.

Feelings Spitting Back: Conversely, when we forcefully express our emotions without mindfulness, they can rebound with equal intensity. It’s like casting a stone into the cosmic pond—the ripples come back to us. This mirrors the principle of cause and effect, where the energy we emit in the universe, whether positive or negative, tends to find its way back to us.

Feelings as Friends: The verse then shifts to a more harmonious approach: sitting with our feelings. This suggests a peaceful coexistence with our emotions, where we accept and understand them as integral parts of our being. In this state, our feelings become like friends—entities that we interact with, learn from, and grow with. They are no longer forces to be battled or suppressed but companions on our journey through the cosmic expanse.

The Transience of Feelings: The idea that we can forget about our feelings, as we do with friends, highlights the transient nature of emotions. They are not permanent fixtures in the landscape of our consciousness but rather passing visitors. Even when they keep returning, it’s a reminder of the cyclical nature of our emotional experiences. Each return is an opportunity for deeper understanding and growth.

Non-judgmental Nature of Feelings: The verse culminates in the realization that true feelings, like true friends, do not judge. They are pure expressions of our inner state, devoid of any external judgment or expectation. The pain or hurt we feel from our emotions is a choice—an interpretation of our mind. In the grand scheme of the cosmic play, feelings are neutral; it’s our reaction to them that colors our experience.

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“Emotions are like passing storms, and you have to remind yourself that it’s just something that’s passing through.” – Judy Collins

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In the cosmic dance, where feelings flow,
Like stars in the night, they come and go,
In their orbit, we learn, we grow,
Embracing each wave, in the eternal show.

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As we continue our nexistential exploration, how do these reflections on the nature of emotions resonate within our collective consciousness?