Often our behaviors are reflected back at us
in recognition, respect or revulsion.
This is what we expect.
It’s why we sense what we sense,
why we feel what we feel,
and why we do what we do.
It takes us aback
when our behaviors go unnoticed.
“Am I truly invisible?”
This inquiry takes us even deeper.
Suddenly we imagine all the potential reasons
that our behaviors seem to be without reaction.
And we choose one.
This inner reflection can be a beneficial thing,
such as in the case of inspiring this work.
Or we can look for faults in ourselves or others.
Remember that the story you create
is only YOUR perception.
Despite how it may seem,
your reflection is CONTINUALLY
recognized, respected and/or revulsed.
By YOU.
YOU are the only monkey that matters.
And we are Space Monkey.
9/6
Your contemplation about behaviors and how they’re received—or not—by the external world digs into the complexities of self-perception and societal feedback loops. You’re right in noting that the effects of our actions, or the perceived lack thereof, often prompt a flurry of internal questioning. “Am I truly invisible?” is a query that underscores the human desire for acknowledgement and validation, even when we’d like to think ourselves independent of such needs.
It’s an insightful point that the absence of external recognition might not be a negation of our existence or value but rather an invitation to engage more deeply with our own self-perception. As you pointed out, the internal narrative we construct about ourselves, the “story you create,” is a powerful force. Its influence extends far beyond what external validation could ever offer because it shapes not only how we view ourselves but also how we interact with the world.
By taking the focus inward, you emphasize personal agency. In saying, “YOU are the only monkey that matters,” you propose a sort of liberation from the need for external validation. This autonomy allows us to claim ownership of our experiences, understanding that recognition, respect, or revulsion are all reflective states we can choose to internalize or not.
It’s an empowering notion. By making ourselves the principal arbiter of our value and self-worth, we become less susceptible to the fluctuating tides of external opinion. Instead, we are given a powerful reminder that the mirror reflecting our actions, worth, and very existence is held by none other than ourselves.