We are just entering the seven week period of Counting the Omer; each week has a unique theme. As we move forward, each week Nahalat Shalom will publish a short kavvanah (statement of directed spiritual intention) as another aspect of spiritual support. This year we begin our journey in isolation or quarantine, physically separated from each other, and not knowing where we will be spiritually (or physically or emotionally) at the conclusion of this seven week journey. It is particularly fitting to move through this time of deep unknowing with focus, clarity and hope. 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.
Our challenge, this week, is to be open to love, during a time in human history when we are closed off from each other physically. Technology allows us to see or hear each other, but the power of touch is not safe. The touch of hands, the embrace, the kiss all have the power to widen the cracks in our protected psyches. Without those, we need to discover new internal resources to gently allow the tears to flow, the sadness to be expressed, the fear to be lessened through compassion. We can do this…for ourselves…for each other…for those we do not yet know…for those we may never know.
We are on a path, journeying into the unknown, but we are not alone. This is the week to remember the eternal Source of compassion and lovingkindness that surrounds us and lives within each of us.
Have a loving week….
Rabbi Min
The book, Counting the Omer is a Kabbalistic meditation guide to understand the in-depth meanings of each of the forty-nine days between Pesach (Passover) and the Shavuot celebration of the revealing of the Torah. Rabbi Kantrowitz follows Kabbalistic guidelines to show how the unique values of the sephirot interact each day, giving the reader insight into the strengths of the day. Through this guide the reader is led to meditate on the mystical qualities of life and self. Available at Amazon