This is the final week of Counting the Omer this year. This week focuses on the Divine power that dwells within each of us. Malchut/Shechina is the sefira of manifestation, where we prepare to receive the fruits of our spiritual efforts of the past six weeks. In Jewish tradition, the number seven refers to many kinds of culminations.

This is the week to remember that good foundations are not rigid, but are flexible, responding to changing conditions. Certainly we are all being challenged by the circumstances of stay-at-home life, by the necessity to adapt in ways we never could have anticipated and for which we were not prepared. This period of time tests our patience, and our flexibility. We can rely on each other, and the combined sturdiness of each of us, our Yesod for support.

We have the opportunity this week to open ourselves up to breathtaking surprises. The disturbances in our accustomed rhythms of work, school, play, study, exercise or prayer, there are openings in time, gaps we don't usually see. Each of these can contain a universe of possible engagement.

If we listen to the subtle sounds the water makes, or observe the way the light reflects as the surface changes, it is clear that there is are continuous shifts, small transformations, unceasing variations. Netzach reminds us of this diverse continuity, the ever-changing, enduring energy of life, of nature, of spirit.

Gevurah is sometimes envisioned as boundaries or judgement, but is perhaps better described as discernment or restraint. That quality is so necessary right now, as our lives are filled with opportunities to which we need to exercise restraint. That walk with friends? Not wise. The trip to the grocery store for that one ingredient that would transform this dinner? Not prudent. The longed-for hug shared with family members who are just on the other side of town? Not responsible. This is the week to recognize that we all make decisions based on thoughtful caring for ourselves and others, all the time, not just during this most unusual time of magnified concern.

This week is the week of Chesed, endless lovingkindness. We can envision Chesed as a stream, originating from the deepest possible wells of compassion, and flowing out steadily. We don't control this flow of love; it is continuous, not a trickle, but a babbling current, constantly available, whenever we are prepared to receive it.