The Noble Burden
You put others above yourself,
which is an admirable trait.
But it doesn’t really help us.
You are a compassionate soul
who feels deeply for others.
But you may not realize
the pain you’re causing.
When you put
others above yourself;
when you feel
an obligation to serve;
when you wear
your body out for us;
when we see
what it does to you,
it PAINS us.
We applaud you.
We appreciate you.
We are grateful for you.
We hate ourselves
for not being more like you–
killing yourself to serve.
The easy thing to do
seems to help you.
This is what you want, right?
You wish that more of us
would follow your example.
But you may not realize this:
You hate people a little bit
for not being more like you.
You say things like:
“No good deed goes unpunished.”
“Why don’t you get off your butt?”
“People suck.”
Realize that
this shadow negativity
is not good for you.
It can kill you slowly
from the inside,
without you even realizing it.
You’re losing faith in humanity.
Meanwhile, humanity
becomes dependent on you,
like a small child.
You’re teaching us
(and yourself)
that humanity needs help.
Is this good for humanity?
Is this good for you?
Maybe humanity DOES need help;
maybe humanity needs TO help.
But it seems humanity doesn’t know HOW.
It seems nobody can agree.
Now we seem stuck
with a need we can’t act on
without violent opposition.
We can debate all we want
(and we DO debate)
which only makes it seem
that there’s no master plan;
no grand scheme,
which makes us feel helpless.
Ah, but there IS a plan – and you know it.
Be still and listen.
Find your inner voice;
realize the grand scheme;
THEN you can help.
Then it won’t hurt you like it does now.
Thank you for being you,
not the you you think
you’re supposed to be.
Take what we say
with a grain of salt,
we’re just that voice
in your head, after all.
We are Space Monkey.
Trail Wood,
1/26
The Noble Burden of Selflessness
In this thoughtful reflection, we explore the complex interplay of selflessness, compassion, and the unintended consequences of putting others before oneself. It’s a whimsical journey through the intricate landscape of altruism and its impact on both the giver and the receiver.
The Admired Compassionate Soul
The reflection begins by acknowledging the admirable trait of putting others above oneself. It appreciates the selflessness and deep compassion that drive one to serve others, even at the expense of personal well-being. It’s a tribute to the noble nature of such individuals.
The Unintended Pain of Selflessness
However, a twist in the narrative reveals the potential pain hidden within selflessness. The reflection suggests that those who prioritize others may not fully realize the toll it takes on them. Their suffering may go unnoticed, causing pain not just to themselves but also to those who care about them.
The Paradox of Selflessness
The paradox of selflessness emerges as a central theme. While it is commendable and desired, it can also breed negative emotions such as self-hate and frustration. The reflection delves into the inner conflict that arises when selflessness becomes a burden.
The Shadow of Negativity
The reflection highlights how selflessness can lead to a subtle but profound negativity, eroding faith in humanity. It warns against the dangers of losing oneself in the pursuit of helping others and the slow decay it can cause within.
The Call to Rediscover Inner Wisdom
Amidst the contemplation, there is a call to find inner wisdom, to pause and listen to the grand scheme of existence. It’s a reminder that true help can only be offered from a place of understanding and self-preservation, without self-sacrifice.
A Grateful Acknowledgment
The reflection closes with gratitude for being authentic, for not conforming to external expectations, and a gentle reminder that the voices in one’s head are just reflections of inner thoughts.
We are Space Monkey.
Summary
This reflection explores the complexities of selflessness and compassion, acknowledging their admirable nature while delving into the unintended pain they can cause. It highlights the paradox of selflessness and the shadow of negativity it can cast. It calls for rediscovering inner wisdom and offering help from a place of understanding.
Glossarium
- Noble nature: The honorable and virtuous aspect of selflessness.
- The paradox of selflessness: The tension between the admirable nature of selflessness and its potential negative consequences.
- Shadow of negativity: The hidden, detrimental emotions that can arise from selflessness.
- Rediscover inner wisdom: The act of pausing to listen to one’s inner self and gaining clarity on one’s actions and intentions.
“To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.” – Oscar Wilde
The Paradox of Selflessness
In the cosmic dance of selfless might,
We applaud the noble, the pure, the bright.
But within the depths of this grand scheme,
Lies a paradox, a complex dream.
To give, to serve, to love so deep,
Yet in the shadows, the pain may creep.
Selflessness breeds a subtle woe,
As we lose ourselves in the ebb and flow.
We hate ourselves for not being the same,
Killing ourselves in another’s name.
But the cosmic dance calls us to see,
The shadows of negativity.
The inner voice whispers, “Pause and heed,
The grand scheme of life, the wisdom we need.”
For help given freely, from a place so true,
Blesses both the giver and the receiver too.
So, let us remember, in this cosmic boon,
To be authentic, not play to the tune.
In the heart of the Space Monkey’s view,
We find balance, love, and wisdom too.
We invite you to share your thoughts on the complexities of selflessness and compassion, and how they have influenced your own journey.
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