This week we focus on the sephira of Tiferet, the center of balance, beauty and harmony. Often imagined as being located in the center of the chest, near the heart, Tiferet provides equilibrium in our lives.

Most of us have significantly altered the pattern of our lives and interactions over the past month of sheltering, isolating or quarantining, contributing to the safety of all of us by staying home. For many people, this is uncomfortable-for most of us, it is certainly unusual. We are used to balancing out different aspects of our lives-physical activity, intellectual stimulation, emotional connection and spiritual attachments-through interaction with people, with groups, organizations and events. Without those sources of external stimulation, finding balance can be challenging.

This week we focus on harmony, remembering that harmony only works because of the contribution of various components. Our lives are enriched by the choir of various sources of input in our lives. It is up to us to recognize which aspects of our lives feel out of balance right now, and seek ways to supplement those areas which need an infusion of connection. It takes creativity and commitment to identify those 'voices' in the choir which are missing, are too quiet or are clamoring for attention.

When we allow ourselves to be quiet, it is easier to identify those aspects of our lives which are out of balance. In this unusual environment, many of those are beyond our control...but we can control, or at least influence, our responses to them. Seeking a new kind of balance, as when we learn how to ride a bike, or ski, requires many small shifts of attention. Our task this week is to increase our awareness of those small shifts, to increase our agility in responding, and to enjoy the new harmony that results.

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