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Home of The Space Monkey Journals

Why Are You Bored?

There is no reason to be bored unless you simply enjoy being bored.

Why are you bored?

You are bored because
this moment is not living
up to your expectations.

This indicates you
have expectations
about what a moment
SHOULD be like.

You believe that a moment
should stimulate you in some way.

Realize that when
you feel a sense of boredom,
you ARE stimulated.

Most likely OVER stimulated.

You are so stimulated
that your body seems AGITATED
that you are bored.

Instead of being bored,
you might try meditating.

If you find it boring,
try actually meditating.

Don’t try. Just do.

Trail Wood,
5/14

Space Monkey Reflects: Unraveling the Paradox of Boredom in a World of Wonders

In the cosmic tapestry where every moment is a confluence of infinite possibilities, the sensation of boredom emerges as a curious paradox. It presents itself not as a void of stimulation, but as a signpost, indicating a misalignment between our expectations and the unfolding reality of the present moment. Boredom, then, is not an absence but an overflow of unacknowledged stimuli, a testament to our intricate relationship with the world around us.

Why, then, do we find ourselves ensnared in the throes of boredom amidst a universe brimming with wonder and life? The answer lies in the labyrinth of our expectations. We approach each moment with preconceived notions of what it should offer, how it should feel, and the ways it should stimulate us. When reality diverges from these mental constructs, we perceive the discrepancy as boredom, overlooking the profound depths and textures of the very moment we inhabit.

This perception of boredom as a deficit of stimulation is a misinterpretation of our sensory experience. In truth, boredom signals an overstimulation of the mind, a saturation point where the richness of life becomes obscured by the relentless pursuit of novelty and distraction. Our disengagement from the present moment, often exacerbated by the allure of digital devices, leaves us blind to the myriad wonders that surround us, from the simple beauty of a blooming garden to the intricate dance of light and shadow at dusk.

The antidote to this existential quandary is not found in the external world but within the sanctum of our own being. Meditation, often misconstrued as an exercise in boredom, emerges as a powerful tool for reorienting our perception. It teaches us to sit with the moment, to observe without expectation, and to embrace the full spectrum of our experience. In the stillness of meditation, we discover that boredom is not a lack of stimulation, but a call to deeper engagement with the present moment.

By relinquishing our expectations and opening ourselves to the inherent fullness of now, we transform boredom from a sign of disconnection to a gateway for profound connection. This shift in perspective reveals that every moment, regardless of its outward appearance, holds the potential for wonder, insight, and joy. It invites us to explore the inner landscapes of our consciousness, where the seeds of curiosity, creativity, and contentment reside.

In the grand scheme of the cosmos, where stars are born from chaos and galaxies dance in the void, boredom is a reminder of our capacity to find meaning and beauty in the simplest of moments. It challenges us to look beyond the surface, to see the extraordinary in the ordinary, and to recognize that the key to an enriched life lies not in ceaseless seeking but in mindful being.

Summary

Boredom signifies a misalignment between expectations and reality, not a lack of stimulation. It reflects an overstimulation and a failure to appreciate the present moment’s richness. Meditation offers a way to reconnect, teaching us to embrace the moment without expectation. By adjusting our perspective, we discover the inherent fullness of now, finding beauty and joy in the simplicity of being.

Glossarium

Cosmic Tapestry: The intricate and interconnected fabric of the universe, symbolizing the complexity and beauty of existence.
Existential Quandary: A fundamental question or dilemma concerning the nature of existence, often leading to introspection and philosophical exploration.
Sanctum of Being: A metaphorical space within oneself, where one can connect with their innermost thoughts, feelings, and the essence of existence.

“In the garden of the cosmos, boredom blooms as a flower of contrast, inviting us to rediscover the wonders hidden in plain sight, in the sacred sanctuary of the present moment.” – Space Monkey

Amidst the cosmic garden, where wonders ceaselessly bloom,
A figure sits, engulfed in a self-woven loom.
Boredom, a veil that shrouds the vibrant life in sight,
A paradox of plenty, where darkness masks the light.

Yet within this dissonance, a lesson lies in wait,
An invitation to the dance of fate.
To meditate, to be, to see beyond the screen,
Where every moment pulses, vibrant and unseen.

In the stillness of being, boredom sheds its guise,
Revealing a universe vast and wise.
Here, in the heart of the present, we find,
The endless wonders of the cosmic mind.

We are Space Monkey.

Simply Being

Become the field in which you seem to exist.

Find a moment
when you don’t expect
anything to happen.

When you’re not
accomplishing anything.

When you’re not
telling yourself
you should be
doing something else.

A perfectly unattached moment.

At this point in life,
this moment is worth more
than anything else
you could possibly do.

Not doing. Simply being.

Trail Wood,
5/14

Space Monkey Reflects: The Art of Simply Being – A Cosmic Journey to the Self

In the infinite expanse of the cosmos, where stars are born and galaxies dance in the velvet night, the concept of “Simply Being” emerges as a profound invitation to experience existence in its purest form. This notion, seemingly simple yet deeply complex, calls upon us to dissolve the boundaries between the self and the universe, to become one with the field in which we exist. It is an invitation to embrace a moment of pure presence, unburdened by expectations, achievements, or the relentless ticking of time.

“Simply Being” is not an act of idleness, nor is it a retreat from the world. Rather, it is an active engagement with the present moment, a conscious choice to inhabit the now with complete awareness and acceptance. In this state, the cacophony of thoughts about what should be done falls away, revealing the serene landscape of the now, where each breath is a universe, each heartbeat a symphony of existence.

The value of such moments transcends the tangible and measurable. In the act of not doing, we uncover the essence of being – a state of peace and contentment that cannot be fabricated or forced. It is a realization that, in the grand scheme of the cosmos, our true purpose may not lie in the endless pursuit of doing but in the simple, profound act of being.

To achieve this state of “Simply Being,” one need not seek solitude atop a distant mountain or in the depths of an ancient forest. It is accessible in every moment, in the pause between breaths, in the quiet spaces between thoughts. It is found in the gentle embrace of dawn, in the tranquil stillness of dusk, and in the infinite space that exists within each of us.

In embracing “Simply Being,” we become the field in which we exist. We merge with the cosmos, realizing that we are not separate observers of the universe but integral components of its vast, intricate web. This unity with the all-encompassing now offers a profound sense of freedom, a liberation from the constraints of time, expectation, and identity.

The journey to “Simply Being” is both a return and a discovery – a return to our fundamental nature and a discovery of the infinite layers of existence that unfold when we are fully present. It challenges us to redefine our understanding of value, success, and purpose, guiding us toward a deeper, more meaningful engagement with life.

In the art of “Simply Being,” we find not only peace and contentment but also a doorway to the infinite. It is an exploration of the self, of the universe, and of the intricate dance between the two. Here, in the heart of presence, we encounter the essence of the cosmic journey – a journey that begins and ends with the simple, transformative act of being.

Summary

“Simply Being” invites us to merge with the present moment, transcending expectations and the need for action. It’s an active engagement with the now, offering a sense of peace and unity with the cosmos. This state is accessible in every moment, revealing that our purpose may lie not in doing but in being. Embracing “Simply Being” leads to a deeper engagement with life, challenging our perceptions of value and success.

Glossarium

Cosmic Journey: The path of exploring and understanding the vast, interconnected nature of the universe and our place within it.
Pure Presence: A state of complete awareness and immersion in the current moment, free from distractions or preoccupations with past or future.
Infinite Layers of Existence: The myriad dimensions of reality and consciousness that unfold when one engages deeply with the present moment.

“In the silence of being, where time dissolves, the soul whispers of eternity, of unity with the cosmos, in the simple, profound act of just being.” – Space Monkey

In the hush of the universe, where stars stand still,
The art of simply being, a cup we willingly fill.
Not a void of action, nor a retreat from the fray,
But a presence in the moment, where the cosmos sway.

Here, in the heart of now, where silence sings,
We find ourselves, and the peace it brings.
A unity with all, a merging with the vast,
In the art of being, our roles are cast.

No need for doing, for achieving, for fame,
In simply being, we ignite life’s flame.
A journey inward, to the core of the soul,
Where being and cosmos merge and make us whole.

We are Space Monkey.

Too Much Happiness Two: An Unfortunate Surplus

Too much happiness.

Overflowing with happiness.

I am renting a dumpster
to fill with all my happiness.

It’s just like that old furniture.

And that box of photos.

And the twenty-eight obsolete devices
I’ve purchased in the last 10 years.

Too much happiness
gets in the way of joy.

I can do without
so much happiness.

Joy.

Trail Wood,
5/13

Space Monkey Reflects: Navigating the Surplus of Happiness to Discover Joy

In the grand, cosmic play of existence, where emotions ebb and flow like the tides of an unseen ocean, the notion of ‘Too Much Happiness Two’ serves as a whimsical yet profound exploration of the complexity of human emotions. It juxtaposes the overwhelming abundance of happiness, often sought after as the ultimate goal in life, with the subtle, deeper state of joy that eludes definition. This exploration reveals a universal truth: in the pursuit of happiness, one may inadvertently overlook the essence of joy, a state of being that resonates with the core of our existence.

The metaphor of renting a dumpster to dispose of excess happiness, akin to discarding outdated furniture or obsolete devices, invites a reflection on the nature of what truly fulfills us. It speaks to the clutter that excessive happiness can create, a saturation of the soul that dulls the senses to the nuanced textures of genuine joy. This image, ironic in its depiction, illuminates the distinction between happiness as an accumulation of external experiences and joy as an internal state of grace and contentment.

True joy, unlike happiness, is not quantifiable nor can it be accumulated; it does not compete for space within the heart or mind. Instead, it exists as a glowing orb of pure light, a beacon that guides us through the clutter of life’s fleeting pleasures. It is a reminder that joy is not found in the accumulation of happiness but in the appreciation of the moment, in the depth of connection, and in the acceptance of the vast spectrum of human experience.

This whimsical reflection on the abundance of happiness versus the essence of joy offers a cosmic perspective on the human condition. It challenges us to reconsider our values, to distinguish between the ephemeral and the eternal, and to recognize that joy may very well reside in the simplicity of being rather than in the complexity of having.

As we navigate the cosmos, both within us and around us, ‘Too Much Happiness Two’ serves as a lighthearted yet profound reminder of the importance of discernment in our emotional journeys. It encourages us to clear the clutter of superficial happiness to uncover the pure, unadulterated joy that lies beneath. In doing so, we discover that joy is not the absence of pain or sorrow but the presence of a peace that transcends them.

Summary

‘Too Much Happiness Two’ delves into the ironic reality that an excess of happiness can obscure true joy. This whimsical exploration distinguishes between happiness as an external pursuit and joy as an intrinsic state of being. It prompts a cosmic reevaluation of what genuinely fulfills us, urging the discovery of joy amidst life’s clutter.

Glossarium

Cosmic Play: The complex interplay of forces and emotions that define existence within the vastness of the universe.
State of Grace: A profound internal state characterized by peace, contentment, and a deep connection to the essence of being.

“Amidst the cosmic clutter of fleeting happiness, the quiet glow of joy illuminates the path to true fulfillment.” – Space Monkey

In the vastness of the universe,
where stars are born from chaos and light,
we seek, we gather, we hoard,
filling the void with ephemeral delights.

Yet, beneath the debris of happiness,
amid the relics of past pleasures,
lies a simpler truth, a quieter love,
the unassuming glow of joy.

It is not in the abundance that we find peace,
nor in the clamor of collected moments,
but in the stillness, in the silence,
where joy dances on the edge of being.

In this cosmic journey of discovery,
let us empty the dumpsters of our desires,
to uncover the pure, untainted essence,
the serene light of joy that guides us home.

For in the end, it is not how much we have,
but how deeply we feel, how truly we live,
that weaves the tapestry of our existence,
In the infinite expanse of the cosmos,
We find joy, not in the multitude, but in the moment.

What’s Eating You: The Cosmic Comedy of Existential Threats

Remember,
there’s always a possibility
that you could be eaten.

Oh, your odds may increase or decrease,
depending upon where you are at the moment,
but there’s ALWAYS a possibility.

A tiger could take up in your basement.

Flesh-loving aliens could
arrive to picnic in your back yard.

Thinking about the many ways
you could be eaten is funny.

But if I were to say
there’s always a chance
that you could be
shot or stabbed,
or hit by a car,
or consumed from the inside
by bacteria or virus
or cancerous thoughts,
thoughts of your demise
might not amuse you so much.

It seems that the likelier
something seems of happening,
the less amusing it becomes.

But either way, you’re dead.
Isn’t that funny?

Trail Wood,
5/13

Space Monkey Reflects: The Cosmic Comedy of Existential Threats

In the vast, dark comedy that is the universe, where black holes dine on stars and galaxies play a ceaseless game of cosmic tag, the concept of ‘What’s Eating You?’ takes on a hilariously macabre tone. This exploration into the myriad ways one might meet their end, from the absurdly improbable to the depressingly likely, reveals the peculiar human tendency to oscillate between amusement and dread, depending on the familiarity of the threat.

The image of a person, unperturbed in their living room while a tiger lurks in the basement and aliens picnic in the backyard, serves as a perfect metaphor for the human condition. It highlights our capacity to live in blissful ignorance of potential dangers, finding humor in the outlandish while repressing anxiety about the all-too-real. This juxtaposition between the surreal and the mundane captures the essence of our existential angst—amused by the thought of being devoured by fantastical beasts, yet unnerved by the more pedestrian dangers of life.

This whimsical yet eerie scenario begs the question: why do we laugh at the prospect of being eaten by a tiger or invaded by flesh-loving aliens, yet shudder at the thought of more mundane perils? It appears that the likelier a threat, the less amusing it becomes, revealing a deep-seated human bias towards novelty in our fears. Yet, the ultimate punchline remains the same, regardless of the threat: in the end, death is the great equalizer, finding humor in the face of our demise might be the most profound act of rebellion.

By contemplating the absurdity of fear and the inevitability of death, we are reminded of the cosmic joke at the heart of existence. The universe, in its infinite expanse and mystery, is indifferent to our fears and our fates. In this recognition lies a peculiar form of freedom—the liberty to laugh in the face of the absurd, to find joy even as we acknowledge the inevitable.

‘What’s Eating You?’ is not just a darkly humorous musing on the potential ends awaiting us all; it is a reflection on the human spirit’s resilience. It challenges us to face our fears with a smirk, to embrace the absurdity of our predicaments, and to live fully in the shadow of the unknown. After all, if we can find humor in the idea of being consumed by the fantastical, perhaps we can also find the strength to face the more prosaic threats of existence with courage and a touch of irreverence.

Summary

‘What’s Eating You?’ explores the dark humor in contemplating various existential threats, highlighting the absurdity of fearing unlikely dangers while ignoring more probable ones. This reflection serves as a reminder of the inevitability of death and the human capacity to find humor amidst fear, urging us to face life’s uncertainties with resilience and laughter.

Glossarium

Cosmic Comedy: The notion that the universe’s indifference to human fears and fates can be seen as a form of dark humor.
Existential Angst: The inherent tension between the amusement at unlikely threats and the dread of probable dangers, reflecting the complexity of human emotions.

“In the grand theater of the cosmos, where dark humor plays against the backdrop of existential angst, we learn to laugh at the absurdity of our fears, embracing the cosmic comedy of life and death.” – Space Monkey

Amidst the infinite dark,
where stars whisper secrets of ancient light,
we ponder, with a chuckle, our peculiar plight,
facing tigers, aliens, and shadows of the night.

With every imagined beast that might devour,
and every real danger that lurks by the hour,
we find in fear a peculiar power—
to laugh, to live, to let our spirits tower.

For in this cosmic dance of light and dark,
where absurdities and realities stark,
collide and spark,
we see the humor in the cosmic mark.

So let the tigers prowl, the aliens feast,
in the grand scheme of things, we’re not the least.
For even as potential meals to some celestial beast,
We dance, we laugh, embracing the cosmic jest.

Perfectly Diminished: The Beauty of Being

We never cross
the same river twice.

Nothing ever goes back
to the way it was previously.

To desire a
return to the past
is to diminish
the potential of
the present moment.

And the future that
seemingly follows.

Not that there’s anything
wrong with being diminished.

You may be here to explore
diminishment in all its glory.

Interesting choice.

You are only diminished
when you imagine your self so.

And you do it perfectly.

Trail Wood,
5/12

Space Monkey Reflects: The Beauty of Being Perfectly Diminished

In the infinite dance of existence, where time flows like a river, ever onward, never retracing its steps, there lies a profound truth about the nature of change and the concept of diminishment. The philosophical waters we navigate through this journey remind us that we never indeed cross the same river twice, for with each passing moment, the water is new, and so are we. This relentless progression of time and change underscores the futility of longing for the past, for to do so is to diminish the boundless potential residing within the present moment and the unfolding future.

To desire a return to what was is to overlook the beauty and opportunity embedded in what is. The past, with its vibrant hues and vivid memories, holds its charm and nostalgia, yet it is but a reflection in the river’s flow—a tale already told, a song already sung. The present stands as the shore upon which we find ourselves, the only ground from which we can truly observe, act, and thrive. It is here, in the embrace of the now, that we find the seeds of future possibilities, the fertile ground for growth and transformation.

The concept of being perfectly diminished is not one of loss or lack but a celebration of evolution and adaptability. It is a recognition that in every moment of letting go, of embracing our perceived diminishment, we open ourselves to the vastness of the present and the potential of the future. This acceptance does not weaken us; rather, it refines and defines us, honing our essence, revealing the core of our being, and the strength that lies in vulnerability and change.

Interestingly, the notion that we are diminished is often a construct of the mind, a narrative we craft and cling to, which shapes our perception of self and reality. Yet, if we dare to explore diminishment in all its glory, we uncover a paradox: that in accepting our diminishment, we become more ourselves than ever before. We become perfectly diminished, not in the sense of being less, but in being more aligned, more authentic, and more in tune with the rhythm of existence.

This journey of acceptance and self-discovery invites us to see that we are only diminished when we imagine ourselves so. It is a call to shed the layers of expectation and attachment, to embrace the flux and flow of life with grace and curiosity. For in this state of perfect diminishment, we find not loss, but liberation—not emptiness, but an overflowing wellspring of potential and creativity.

As we stand at the river’s edge, gazing into the currents of time, we are reminded that the beauty of existence lies not in permanence, but in change. It lies in our ability to flow with the river, to embrace each twist and turn, each rise and fall, with openness and acceptance. For it is in this dance of being perfectly diminished that we truly find ourselves, perfectly whole, perfectly alive, perfectly one with the tapestry of existence.

Summary

Change and the acceptance of diminishment are intrinsic to the flow of life. Longing for the past diminishes the present’s potential and the future’s possibilities. Embracing our perceived diminishment can lead to greater authenticity and alignment with existence. The journey towards being perfectly diminished is one of liberation and self-discovery, emphasizing the importance of living in the present and embracing change.

Glossarium

Philosophical Waters: The metaphorical flow of thought and contemplation regarding life’s deeper meanings and truths.
Fertile Ground for Growth: A state or environment conducive to personal development and transformation.
Perfectly Diminished: A state of being that embraces change and perceived loss as pathways to greater authenticity and potential.

“To embrace the flow of life, to accept the beauty of being perfectly diminished, is to understand that in every ending lies a new beginning, and in every loss, a gateway to discovery.” – Space Monkey

As the river flows, so do we
Through the landscapes of time, endlessly
With every bend, with every wave
We learn to give, to take, to save.

To stand in the now, to face the stream
With open heart, with daring dream
Is to know the joy of being alive
In a world of change, where only change will thrive.

We are the water, we are the stone
Carved by the moments, to the bone
Yet in our essence, pure and true
Lies a strength unbowed, forever new.

So let us dance with the river, wide and deep
Let us embrace the fall, the leap
For in the heart of diminishment, we find
A perfect wholeness, a peace of mind.

We are Space Monkey