Judaism project Copy

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] </div>  <div class="main"> [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer%20Start.jpg" width="600" height="600"> |Opening illustration]] During the 2020 Corona Pandemic in Europe a Jewish half-holiday took place over 7 weeks: The Omer Count. 49 days of daily prayer and prompting by rabbi Alexander Grodensky, which I decided to process this challenging time with daily illustrations. Every day contains the musings I posted on that particular day as I uploaded them to Instagram. [[What is the omer?|Kabbalah]] Week 1, [[Chesed]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer1.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer1]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer2.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer2]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer3.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer3]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer4.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer4]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer5.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer5]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer6.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer6]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer7.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer7]] Week 2, [[Gevurah]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer8.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer8]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer9.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer9]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer10.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer10]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer11.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer11]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer12.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer12]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/omer13.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer13]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/omer14.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer14]] Week 3, [[Tiferet]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer15.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer15]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer16.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer16]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer17.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer17]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer18.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer18]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer19.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer19]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer20.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer20]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer21.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer21]] Week 4, [[Netzach]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer22.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer22]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer23.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer23]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer24.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer24]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer25.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer25]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer26.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer26]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer27.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer27]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer28.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer28]] Week 5, [[Hod]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer29.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer29]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer30.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer30]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer31.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer31]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer32.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer32]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer33.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer33]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer34.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer34]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer35.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer35]] Week 6, [[Yesod]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer36.png" width="100" height= "100">|Omer36]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer37.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer37]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer38.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer38]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer39.png" width="100" height= "100">|Omer39]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer40.png" width="100" height= "100">|Omer40]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer41.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer41]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer42.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer42]] Week 7, [[Malchut]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer43.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer43]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer44.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer44]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer45.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer45]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer46.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer46]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer47.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer47]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer48.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer48]][[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer49.jpg" width="100" height= "100">|Omer49]] </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 1 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer1.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer1]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer2.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer2]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer3.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer3]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer4.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer4]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer5.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer5]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer6.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer6]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer7.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer7]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer1.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Chesed in Chesed </h1> Week 1, [[Chesed]] Day 1, [[Chesed]] The first week of the Omer has the theme Chesed (love, kindness) The first day of the first week has the topic chesed within chesed (the purest love within love). That made me think of self love, self acceptance, self searching. That is not an easy process and many factors can make the path to self love much harder. But it also is a love that is pure and burning with power. If you love yourself, you loose a lot of vulnerability. But loving oneself also necessitates being vulnerable. In this contrast, one can seek harmony. Self love facilitates love towards others. Just as I start with self work before I try and fix others, I start my growth with me. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 1 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer1.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer1]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer2.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer2]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer3.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer3]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer4.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer4]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer5.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer5]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer6.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer6]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer7.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer7]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer2.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Gevurah in Chesed </h1> Week 1, [[Chesed]] Day 2, [[Gevurah]] The second day of the Omer - Gevurah G’vurah (judgement, justice, rigor) within chesed (love). My rabbi called it discipline in love. That makes me think of fighting, jealousy, but also reconciling. Sticking together when times are tough. Being stubborn. Being supportive. Anger, judgement and emotionality are part of our experience of love. But for a relationship to be successful, it can be necessary to control those feelings and leave space for the love. </div>

<h1>The Omer Count Project</h1> <h3>by singingstranger</h3> Please wait, you are being redirected... (live: 5s)[(goto: "Home")]

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 1 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer1.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer1]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer2.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer2]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer3.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer3]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer4.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer4]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer5.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer5]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer6.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer6]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer7.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer7]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer7.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Malchut in Chesed </h1> Week 1, [[Chesed]] Day 7, [[Malchut]] Seventh day of the Omer - Malchut I deviated a little bit from the rabbi’s homework for today. We were encouraged to reflect on what makes us shine in our relationships and what enables us to keep going together. But I was struck by a different aspect. Malchut (sovereignity, leadership, nobility) in chesed (loving kindness) is today’s motto. What caught my eye was leadership and expressing. Leading in a relationship to show how to act to the other, in particular with children. But also growing something for the future that can keep on leading. Even when one passes away or if the relationship falls apart. When I was a child, we removed a tree from the back yard and in exchange, planted a sapling. Planting this tree was a very influential moment for me and to this day, planting trees is something special to me. It is a humble act that will benefit generations to come and a great learning moment. So I chose to reflect on how leadership can mean doing humble things, teaching moments and reducing one’s status momentarily to benefit the other, without loosing one’s glory. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 2 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer8.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer8]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer9.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer9]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer10.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer10]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer11.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer11]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer12.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer12]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/omer13.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer13]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/omer14.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer14]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer8.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Chesed in Gevurah</h1> Week 2, [[Gevurah]] Day 8, [[Chesed]] Today is eight days, which is one week and one day of the Omer - Chesed The new week begins, so we loop back around. The topic is chesed again but now chesed (loving kindness) in gevurah (discipline). I chose to make today about something very personal to me, prayer. An act of love to God, but it also is something I do because it makes me a better person to reflect on my ethics and motivations at least once a day. I have been saying a daily prayer for almost two weeks now and it is like a meditation every day. You do not have to be religious or even spiritual to benefit from meditation. Observing a prayer pattern takes a lot of discipline. Anyone who has tried it might know the struggle. But the reward is a softness of the heart that I cannot compare to other things. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 2 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer8.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer8]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer9.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer9]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer10.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer10]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer11.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer11]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer12.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer12]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/omer13.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer13]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/omer14.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer14]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer9.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Gevurah in Gevurah</h1> Week 2, [[Gevurah]] Day 9, [[Gevurah]] Today is nine days, which is one week and two days of the Omer - Gevurah I couldn’t wrap my brain around this one: Gevurah (discipline) in gevurah. What would be a suitable expression of discipline for the sake of discipline and a reward of discipline? So I took it to my partner for help and he immediately suggested “keeping kosher”. A catalogue of rules and regulations for how to eat and consume with a rich history and background that explains the rules and their uses. Funny enough, the drasha (sermon) last night talked about not over-doing things. Not thinking of oneself as more important or putting oneself above others based on job, or here, observance level. To humble oneself. Sometimes a rule is just a simple rule and making it more complicated does not necessarily mean it becomes more accurate. I make things fairly complicated for myself all the time. But one thing I never want to do is expect anyone else to follow my rituals or beliefs. It is an act of discipline upon myself. You do not need to do what I do. I do not make this series to convince anyone of my values or practices. But I also do not appreciate some of the ridicule I have had to deal with for it. People here have been very kind, drowning out the occasional critic. My belief injects magic into the mundane for me. Even washing dishes is a spiritual act for me. It doesn’t have to be one for you, but this series might allow a little window into my perspective. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 2 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer8.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer8]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer9.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer9]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer10.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer10]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer11.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer11]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer12.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer12]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/omer13.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer13]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/omer14.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer14]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer10.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Tiferet in Gevurah</h1> Week 2, [[Gevurah]] Day 10, [[Tiferet]] Today is ten days, which is one week and three days of the Omer - Tiferet Tiferet (compassion) in gevurah (discipline). Perhaps more topical. Doing physical acts of charity takes much more discipline than other kinds, both for the recipient and the donor. I much prefer types of charity where donor and recipient do not know each other. But in these times, that is not always possible. The way the world is coming together to support the weakest of ours is admirable. Look out for your neighbors, act with kindness but bear in mind how hard it is to accept charity. And keep your boundaries in mind too. People can be cruel to their helpers. Stay safe everyone. Be mindful and careful. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 2 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer8.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer8]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer9.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer9]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer10.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer10]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer11.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer11]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer12.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer12]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/omer13.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer13]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/omer14.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer14]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer12.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Hod in Gevurah</h1> Week 2, [[Gevurah]] Day 12, [[Hod]] Today is twelve days, which is one week and five days of the Omer - Hod Hod (humility) in gevurah (discipline). The rabbi told us to be mindful today, not to become arrogant in the face of our knowledge but to remain humble. I chose to make today about the humility in asking for help and providing it in learning. It can be humbling to notice you know less than you thought, both as a student and as a teacher. Quarantine is forcing many of us to brush up on our school smarts and sit down with our children and students. I am a tutor, I am often stumped at a question or a new subject I could not prepare myself for ahead of a lesson because the child or parent only tells me about it once we have already begun. In those moments I remind myself that it’s okay to ask and look things up, talk to them about their knowledge and learning with them. Today however is also Yom HaShoah, the Israeli holocaust memorial day, observed my jews internationally. As this is the week of discipline, it is important to me to consider the humanity in discipline. To remain compassionate and not let automatisms take over. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 2 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer8.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer8]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer9.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer9]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer10.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer10]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer11.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer11]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer12.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer12]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/omer13.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer13]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/omer14.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer14]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/omer13.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Yesod in Gevurah</h1> Week 2, [[Gevurah]] Day 13, [[Yesod]] Today is thirteen days, which is one week and six days of the Omer - Yesod Yesod (bonding) in gevurah (discipline). There are rituals and tasks that we do with or for others because we have to, but finding the humane and compassionate element in there can lead to bonding. Visiting and caring for the sick is a very important thing in judaism. These days, it can prohibitively difficult to conduct these visits in person. But if we live with someone who falls ill, giving them companionship as they recover can help them to feel better. The psychological aspect of healing should never be understated. Even in the situation of no healing being possible, we owe it to each other to give each other the best care we can. Sometimes that cannot be done in person. Sometimes that means making difficult choices. But human contact is one of the most beautiful and loving things we can do for each other. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 3 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer15.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer15]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer16.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer16]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer17.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer17]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer18.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer18]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer19.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer19]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer20.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer20]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer21.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer21]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer15.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Chesed in Tiferet</h1> Week 3, [[Tiferet]] Day 15, [[Chesed]] Today is fifteen days, which is two weeks and one day of the Omer - Chesed Chesed (love) in tiferet (compassion). I immediately thought of the mutual expression of kindness in a relationship. Love can be a very powerful motivator to show compassion, it is easier for us to do something nice for a friend or partner than for a stranger. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 3 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer15.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer15]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer16.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer16]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer17.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer17]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer18.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer18]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer19.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer19]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer20.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer20]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer21.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer21]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer16.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Gevurah in Tiferet</h1> Week 3, [[Tiferet]] Day 16, [[Gevurah]] Today is sixteen days, which is two weeks and two days of the Omer- Gevurah Today is about gevurah (discipline) in tiferet (harmony, compassion). One kmportant thing that benefits couples and their harmony is following cleaning schedules and other schedules around the house. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 3 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer15.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer15]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer16.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer16]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer17.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer17]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer18.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer18]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer19.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer19]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer20.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer20]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer21.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer21]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer17.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Tiferet in Tiferet</h1> Week 3, [[Tiferet]] Day 17, [[Tiferet]] Yesterday was a rough day for me. But it was also #lesbianvisibilityday and the 17th day of the Omer This day was about tiferet (harmony, balance, compassion) in tiferet. Balance in balance, harmony in harmony. In my series of illustrations for the Omer I have sometimes gotten stuck. This was one of those times. How to show true balance and harmony? I don’t know. But I know that balance and harmony are the goal in marriage. Respect, love and hard work. I hope that you accept my day late pist for the 17th day of the omer count. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 3 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer15.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer15]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer16.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer16]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer17.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer17]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer18.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer18]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer19.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer19]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer20.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer20]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer21.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer21]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer18.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Netzach in Tiferet</h1> Week 3, [[Tiferet]] Today is eighteen days, which is two weeks and four days of the Omer - Nezach Today is about nezach (endurance, persistence, overcoming) in tiferet (compassion). I chose to focus on the relationship with nature today and the act of cleaning her beaches. A laborous, long task, and one that goes without monetary or thanking reward, but one that symbolises a small act of compassion. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 3 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer15.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer15]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer16.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer16]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer17.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer17]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer18.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer18]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer19.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer19]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer20.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer20]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer21.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer21]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer19.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Hod in Tiferet</h1> Week 3, [[Tiferet]] Day 19, [[Hod]] Today is nineteen days, which is two weeks and five days of the Omer - Hod Hod (humility) in tiferet (compassion). I immediately thought of my internship in a kindergarten as a teen and these tiny kindergarten chairs. I was very immature and didn’t know how to talk and listen to the children properly at that time. But I remember one girl breaking into tears and the teacher sitting next to her on these ridiculously tiny chairs to be on her level and listen to her. It made a difference for the child and it made a difference for me, becoming more willing and ready to sit with someone instead of just saying or deciding things. It’s a small gesture but it taught me humility. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 3 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer15.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer15]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer16.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer16]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer17.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer17]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer18.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer18]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer19.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer19]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer20.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer20]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer21.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer21]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer20.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Yesod in Tiferet</h1> Week 3, [[Tiferet]] Day 20, [[Yesod]] Today is twenty days, which is two weeks and six days of the Omer - Yesod Yesod (bonding, spiritual foundation) in tiferet (compassion). This made me think of spiritual education and teaching. It is not easy to find the discipline to provide someone else with a rounded education, especially children. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 3 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer15.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer15]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer16.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer16]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer17.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer17]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer18.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer18]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer19.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer19]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer20.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer20]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer21.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer21]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer21.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Malchut in Tiferet</h1> Week 3, [[Tiferet]] Day 21, [[Malchut]] Today is twenty-one days, which is three weeks of the Omer - Malchut Today is about malchut (leadership, sovereignty, nobility presence) in tiferet (compassion). I had to think of family and being an example to one’s children for this exercise. It is hard work to present a collaborative and supportive family unit and to raise a child. It demands discipline and introspection. But being a leader and role model also feeds back into the discipline you bring forward. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 4 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer22.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer22]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer23.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer23]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer24.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer24]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer25.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer25]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer26.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer26]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer27.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer27]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer28.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer28]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer22.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Chesed in Netzach</h1> Week 4, [[Netzach]] Day 22, [[Chesed]] Today is twenty-two days, which is three weeks and one day of the Omer - Chesed Today is about chesed (love) in netzach (endurance). My mind wandered to hobbies and things we do because they bring us joy and fill our hearts. Bonsais and other gardening hobbies are labors of love, but bknsai in particular is a labor of patience. A good bonsai project can take decades to grow and upkeep after all. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 4 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer22.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer22]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer23.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer23]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer24.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer24]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer25.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer25]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer26.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer26]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer27.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer27]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer28.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer28]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer23.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Gevurah in Netzach</h1> Week 4, [[Netzach]] Day 23, [[Gevurah]] Today is twenty-three days, which is three weeks and two days of the Omer - Gevurah Gevurah (discipline) in netzach (endurance) and I wanted to focus on the discipline it takes to stay strong. Loss, in whatever form it may be, takes a lot of strength to get through. If we have to endure a change, a loss in particular, it is important to find new routines and to allow grief to take place. It doesn’t have to be death that leads to loss. At this moment, the world is grieving over how life changed so suddenly and dramatically through the virus and fears and looks forward alike to the new normal. It is okay to grieve, these are traumatising times. But it is essential to keep moving forward. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 4 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer22.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer22]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer23.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer23]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer24.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer24]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer25.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer25]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer26.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer26]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer27.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer27]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer28.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer28]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer24.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Tiferet in Netzach</h1> Week 4, [[Netzach]] Day 24, [[Tiferet]] Today is twenty-four days, which is three weeks and three days of the Omer - Tiferet Tiferet (compassion) in Netzach (endurance, persistence). Today we were told: Practice patience with someone today! So I started thinking about what people I know who practice a lot of patience and compassion with someone who is weaker and maybe even dependent. I had to think of the many amazing kitten rescuers that I follow on social media. While I may not always agree with everythjng they believe or do, I believe in their work and cause. Raising infant animals is hard work, as I have experienced too. So here are a few shout outs to people who I know foster and / or provide medical care to baby kittens and inspired today’s musings: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kittenxlady/">@kittenxlady</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/krazykittens802/">@krazykittens802</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thecatlvt/">@thecatlvt</a> </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 4 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer22.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer22]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer23.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer23]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer24.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer24]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer25.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer25]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer26.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer26]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer27.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer27]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer28.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer28]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer25.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Netzach in Netzach</h1> Week 4, [[Netzach]] Day 25, [[Netzach]] Today is twenty-five days, which is three weeks and four days of the Omer - Netzach Today is about netzach in netzach, endurance in endurance. The rabbi said to make today about creating a new good habit, but my mind went in a different direction for this topic. Something one must overcome and persevere through, but that is also connected with ritual? Grief, here represented with yahrzeit (a ritual where on the death anniversary of a loved one you light a candle that then burns for 24 hours). Persisting and repeating certain rituals is both a reminder of the reason why you are doing it (in this case a ritual of grief) but also can give comfort and reassurance in always repeating it. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 4 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer22.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer22]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer23.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer23]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer24.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer24]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer25.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer25]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer26.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer26]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer27.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer27]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer28.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer28]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer26.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Hod in Netzach</h1> Week 4, [[Netzach]] Day 26, [[Hod]] Today is twenty-six days, which is three weeks and five days of the Omer - Hod Hod (humility, splendor) in netzach (endurance). More than half of the omer count is over! It feels so strange, having made a drawing for each day so far. I hope I can keep it up until the end! Today’s prompt was to reflect on our abilities and the resourcefullness of our lives. As some of you know, I’ve been sewing masks for the past few weeks and that to me is an example of that resourcefulness. So I wanted to explore that in my work today. According to Maimonides, the highest form of charity is to enable someone to support themselves through your giving. During these times, many charitable acts can help the recipient do just that. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 4 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer22.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer22]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer23.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer23]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer24.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer24]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer25.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer25]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer26.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer26]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer27.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer27]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer28.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer28]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer27.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Yesod in Netzach</h1> Week 4, [[Netzach]] Day 27, [[Yesod]] Today is twenty-seven days, which is three weeks and six days of the Omer - Yesod Yesod (spiritual foundation, bonding) in netzach (endurance). I return once again to the image of an adult teaching a child. But here it’s a very basic skill: reading. Reading is one of those essential skills a child should be taught and it is vital to enable future independence and maturity. We were told today to make a resolution and stick to it. I hereby resolve to finish this series. (Spoiler alert: I did) </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 4 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer22.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer22]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer23.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer23]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer24.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer24]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer25.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer25]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer26.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer26]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer27.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer27]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer28.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer28]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer28.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Malchut in Netzach</h1> Week 4, [[Netzach]] Day 28, [[Malchut]] Today is twenty-eight days, which is four weeks of the Omer - Malchut Malchut (leadership, nobility-presence, expressing) in netzach (endurance). The holiest day of the jewish calendar is Yom Kippur, a day with a 25 hour fast. You dress in white and spend as much time as you can stomach at the synagogue. Wether you can go in person or not, it is a day of atonement, solemnity and reflection. It is a day where wether or not you fulfilled your last year’s goals comes to pass. Where you reflect on wrongdoings and mistakes, try to find peace with yourself and God, if you believe. You express yourself and reflect on your ability to make things happen over the past year. The conclusion stays between you and God. I chose this motif because of the endurance aspect (that’s one long fast) but also the expression and action that fuels endurance. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 5 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer29.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer29]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer30.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer30]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer31.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer31]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer32.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer32]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer33.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer33]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer34.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer34]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer35.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer35]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer29.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Chesed in Hod</h1> Week 5, [[Hod]] Day 29, [[Chesed]] Today is twenty-nine days, which is four weeks and one day of the Omer - Chesed Today was about love in humility. Finding acts of kindness towards yourself and others that are motivated in love. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 5 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer29.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer29]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer30.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer30]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer31.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer31]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer32.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer32]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer33.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer33]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer34.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer34]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer35.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer35]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer30.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Gevurah in Hod</h1> Week 5, [[Hod]] Day 20, [[Gevurah]] Today is thirty-two days, which is four weeks and two days of the Omer - G’vurah This was the day of gevurah (discipline) in Hod (humility). I chose to interpret that as being the bigger person in small gestures, letting someone else have the last cookie. A child who chooses to share has been raised very well. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 5 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer29.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer29]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer30.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer30]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer31.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer31]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer32.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer32]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer33.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer33]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer34.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer34]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer35.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer35]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer31.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Tiferet in Hod</h1> Week 5, [[Hod]] Day 31, [[Tiferet]] Today is thirty-two days, which is four weeks and three days of the Omer - Tiferet This is the day of tiferet (compassion) and hod (humility). I was encouraged to reflect on compassionate acts that fuel humility and humility that fuels compassion. But also to think about compassionate things I can do that would humble me. I honestly wanted to avoid this imagery at first. I believe that giving money to homeless people is an incredibly valuable thing, but I do not believe in showing off those gestures online. It should be a private act. But perhaps in this form it is still alright. Please be gentle with those who are without shelter right now. They are commonly chronically ill, and there is a pandemic out and about. They are very vulnerable persons in these times more than ever. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 5 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer29.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer29]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer30.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer30]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer31.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer31]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer32.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer32]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer33.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer33]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer34.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer34]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer35.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer35]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer32.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Netzach in Hod</h1> Week 5, [[Hod]] Day 32, [[Netzach]] Today is thirty-two days, which is four weeks and four days of the Omer - Netzach Today is about Netzach (endurance) in Hod (humility). Today’s prompt was basically “don’t be a doormat”. Do not let your humility become your weakness. Let it be your strength and do not be scared to share your accomplishments. Do not brag. But also don’t be a doormat. Medical professionals are being told to just sacrifice their health, their sanity and potentially their families during this crisis. This is not okay and we cannot try to turn them into doormats and martyrs. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 5 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer29.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer29]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer30.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer30]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer31.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer31]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer32.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer32]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer33.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer33]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer34.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer34]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer35.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer35]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer33.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Hod in Hod</h1> Week 5, [[Hod]] Day 33, [[Hod]] Today is thirty-three days, which is four weeks and five days of the Omer - Hod Today is the day of Hod within hod - humility in humility. Today is the opposite of yesterday... finding deeper humility rather than a limit to it. We are encouraged to seek guidance by those who are more mature and who can guide us to find more humility in our hearts and expression. But it’s also about avoiding to humble brag! Trye humility does not come from arrogance and arrogance makes true humility harder to practice. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 5 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer29.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer29]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer30.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer30]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer31.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer31]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer32.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer32]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer33.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer33]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer34.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer34]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer35.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer35]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer34.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Yesod in Hod</h1> Week 5, [[Hod]] Day 34, [[Yesod]] Today is thirty-four days, which is four weeks and six days of the Omer - Yesod Today is about bonding in humility. We were encouraged to try and make something lasting from a place of humility, preferrably together with someone else. So I thought of the entrance of my university that has only stairs and no ramp. Something disabled students, parents and sculpture artists alike criticize. If I could afford it, I would take a big tub of legos and just build my own ramp. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 5 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer29.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer29]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer30.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer30]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer31.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer31]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer32.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer32]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer33.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer33]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer34.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer34]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer35.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer35]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer35.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Malchut in Hod</h1> Week 5, [[Hod]] Day 35, [[Malchut]] Today is thirty-five days, which is five weeks of the Omer - Malchut Today is about malchut (leadership) in hod (humility). We were encouraged to think about how we could teach someone humility. I really struggled with this depiction (as @arielgalimard can attest to, as he graciously listened to me babbling about it and gave me very good advice) But finally I chose to return to the image of teaching a child. Humility is something best taught by leading by example. I remember, when I was a child I asked my parents if I could give money to panhandlers or street musicians and they always found some spare change for me. This is a habit I carried over into adulthood thanks to their patience with me. Children look up to their parents for guidance and examples after all. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 6 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer36.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer36]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer37.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer37]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer38.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer38]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer39.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer39]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer40.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer40]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer41.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer41]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer42.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer42]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer36.png" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Chesed in Yesod</h1> Week 6, [[Yesod]] Day 36, [[Chesed]] Today is thirty-six days, which is five weeks and one day of the Omer - Chesed Chesed (love) in Yesod (bonding). We were encouraged to show our affection and bond with someone through an act of love today. And the first thing that came to mind was breakfast in bed, but we already had that one. Then however I remembered how I ised to show affection to my parents as a child. Random “treasures” (aka rocks, marbles, leaves, critters) that I would them give to then as a way of practicing gift giving and love demonstration. Look mom, I found something cool! </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 6 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer36.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer36]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer37.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer37]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer38.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer38]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer39.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer39]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer40.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer40]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer41.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer41]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer42.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer42]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer37.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Gevurah in Yesod</h1> Week 6, [[Yesod]] Day 37, [[Gevurah]] Today is thirty-seven days, which is five weeks and two days of the Omer - Gevurah Today is about discipline in bonding. To not overcrowd people you love, it’s important to give them space to breathe. Sometimes just sitting by each other as you study/ work is enough, rather than studying together. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 6 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer36.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer36]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer37.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer37]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer38.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer38]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer39.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer39]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer40.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer40]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer41.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer41]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer42.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer42]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer38.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Tiferet in Yesod</h1> Week 6, [[Yesod]] Day 38, [[Tiferet]] Today is thirty-eight days, which is five weeks and three days of the Omer - Tiferet Today is about compassion in bonding. When someone is suffering, offering help and kindness especially if they are your partner. We touched on the subject once before, but that was about visiting the sick - this time it is about active action and caretaking labor. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 6 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer36.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer36]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer37.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer37]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer38.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer38]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer39.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer39]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer40.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer40]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer41.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer41]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer42.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer42]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer39.png" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Netzach in Yesod</h1> Week 6, [[Yesod]] Day 39, [[Netzach]] Today is thirty-nine days, which is five weeks and four days of the Omer - Netzach Today is about endurance in bonding, getting through problems in your relationships. I like to talk things out, when it is possible. Especially parents of teenagers often struggle to communicate with their children because of stand-offish behavior, emotional immaturity and their attempts to grow up and out of reach. But a healthy relationship with open communication is achievable even then. It takes time and commitment from both sides though. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 6 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer36.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer36]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer37.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer37]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer38.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer38]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer39.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer39]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer40.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer40]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer41.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer41]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer42.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer42]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer40.png" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Hod in Yesod</h1> Week 6, [[Yesod]] Day 40, [[Hod]] Today is forty days, which is five weeks and five days of the Omer - Hod Today is about humility in bonding. We were encouraged to reflect on our bondings in prayer today and how God has allowed our bonds to strengthen, but I know that is not everyone’s cup of tea. But gratitude takes many forms. Prayer is a kind of meditation. It encourages gratitude and mindfulness, considering what is wrong and needs fixing and joy over what is right. Praying with your child is a special act. My grandfather's blessings over dinners, my mother's gratitude songs over lunch, they stuck with me all my life. And as I pray and bless daily, I feel a connection to their rituals, as they took me under their wings in these daily little prayers. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 6 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer36.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer36]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer37.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer37]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer38.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer38]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer39.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer39]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer40.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer40]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer41.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer41]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer42.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer42]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer41.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Yesod in Yesod</h1> Week 6, [[Yesod]] Day 41, [[Yesod]] Today is forty-one days, which is five weeks and six days of the Omer - Yesod Today is about bonding for its own virtue. Today we were encouraged to reflect on bonding that we might avoid doing because of prejudice, bad experience or valid concern*. Perhaps we can practice to open up and give it a shot if it can be done safely, and to slowly develop a connection with a new person. * there can be very good reasons to avoid bonding with people, if they intend you harm. Please do not let anyone try to emotionally force you into bonding or even seeking contact with (potential) abusers or people you purposefully moved away from. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 6 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer36.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer36]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer37.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer37]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer38.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer38]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer39.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer39]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer40.png" width="65" height= "65">|Omer40]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer41.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer41]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer42.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer42]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer42.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Malchut in Yesod</h1> Week 6, [[Yesod]] Day 42, [[Malchut]] Today is forty-two days, which is six weeks of the Omer - Malchut Nobility in Bonding. Appreciating and highlighting the strengths of those who you bond with is today’s prompt. I believe that enabling your loved one’s passions is a good way to do that. Drawing, painting, poetry, gardening, there are many different ways to express oneself. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 7 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer43.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer43]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer44.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer44]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer45.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer45]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer46.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer46]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer47.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer47]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer48.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer48]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer49.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer49]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer43.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Chesed in Malchut</h1> Week 7, [[Malchut]] Day 43, [[Chesed]] Today is forty-three days, which is six weeks and one day of the Omer - Chesed Today is about love in nobility/leadership. This week’s topic is more about manifesting our values in day to day life though. How can we manifest our love in these times? Online. This is not easy and for many, it is painful. But it is necessary still in many places. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 7 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer43.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer43]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer44.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer44]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer45.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer45]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer46.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer46]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer47.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer47]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer48.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer48]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer49.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer49]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer44.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Gevurah in Malchut</h1> Week 7, [[Malchut]] Day 44, [[Gevurah]] Today is forty-four days, which is six weeks and two days of the Omer - Gevurah Discipline in leadership. What better example of valuing the boundaries in leadership and knowing one’s limitations than group projects? We all had bad experiences working in groups in school, some people tend to take over all the work leaving nothing for the rest of the team, others like to lean back and let everyone else do the work... good group leadership entails doing your part and helping the others, but not to dominate every decision. It is a delicate balance and requires a lot of discipline. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 7 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer43.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer43]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer44.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer44]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer45.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer45]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer46.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer46]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer47.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer47]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer48.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer48]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer49.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer49]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer45.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Tiferet in Malchut</h1> Week 7, [[Malchut]] Day 45, [[Tiferet]] Today is forty-five days, which is six weeks and three days of the Omer - Tiferet Today is about compassion in nobility. Expressing empathy to people who are struggling can take many forms and we have explored a few over the past seven weeks. But to learn about someone’s needs, anticipating and preparing for them, that takes things to another level. I chose the example of autism here, but many people have their own quirks that need some extra care and planning. If you wish to find me at a party though, you likely will find me on the floor hugging the dog with headphones in. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 7 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer43.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer43]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer44.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer44]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer45.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer45]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer46.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer46]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer47.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer47]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer48.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer48]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer49.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer49]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer46.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Netzach in Malchut</h1> Week 7, [[Malchut]] Day 46, [[Netzach]] Today is forty-six days, which is six weeks and four days of the Omer - Netzach Today is about endurance in nobility, manifesting your endurance. Every big project you commit yourself to starts with that first big step: making the choice to partake. Mailing a letter, calling, writing an email... all ways to start. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 7 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer43.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer43]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer44.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer44]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer45.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer45]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer46.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer46]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer47.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer47]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer48.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer48]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer49.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer49]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer47.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Hod in Malchut</h1> Week 7, [[Malchut]] Day 47, [[Hod]] Today is forty-seven days, which is six weeks and five days of the Omer - Hod Today is about humility in nobility/leadership. And I chose for this day to actually focus on leadership and how to stay humble and not let power go to your head. A businesswoman mopping up a coffee spill, based on the Dutch PM who mopped up his coffee in 2018 as opposed to making the staff do it. We are not “above menial tasks”. Analyzing our inner position towards those in “lower” positions is vital. If you make a spill, clean it up to the best of your abilities. If you cannot, show appropriate gratitude towards the one who does labor for you. All labor has value. Power dynamics with a dominant part need to be analyzed and criticized carefully. And politicians are human. To me it is important to keep that in mind, in all aspects of what that entails. If we were more aware of that, a PM mopping up the coffee he spilled would not be newsworthy. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 7 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer43.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer43]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer44.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer44]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer45.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer45]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer46.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer46]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer47.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer47]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer48.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer48]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer49.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer49]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer48.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Yesod in Malchut</h1> Week 7, [[Malchut]] Day 48, [[Yesod]] Today is forty-eight days, which is six weeks and six days of the Omer - Yesod Tomorrow is the last day of the Omer. My heart is so full of sadness that this project will be done but also intense joy to have brought it to conclusion. Today is about bonding. About not letting one’s power and desire to control yourself or others get in the way of bonding. So take the time today to show the special people in your life some love and grow closer to them. Let your guard down a little and let love in. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 7 [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer43.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer43]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer44.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer44]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer45.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer45]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer46.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer46]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer47.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer47]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer48.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer48]] [[<img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer49.jpg" width="65" height= "65">|Omer49]] </div>  <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer49.jpg" width="600" height= "600"> <h1>Malchut in Malchut</h1> Week 7, [[Malchut]] Day 49, [[Malchut]] Today is forty-nine days of the Omer which is seven weeks - Malchut That’s a wrap, folks. The final day, the final episode. A holiday begins tomorrow, Shavuot. And I am so happy that I indeed finished 49 days worth of original illustrations in 49 days. But today is about manifesting in itself, reflection upon the past almost two months and embracing the Torah tomorrow. The prompt today was to reflect internally on the Omer count period and the progress that happened internally. I will be staying awake two nights in a row to study and reflect. My muslim followers just did the same thing towards the end of Ramadan. Thank you all who have followed this crazy project to its conclusion with me. Shavua tov. I am not jewish yet, I am merely a conversion student, so all opinions are my own and not representative. But you know that already. Thank you. </div>

<div class="sidenav"> [[<img src="http://singingstranger.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/App1.png" width="65" height= "65">|Home]] Week 1 [[Chesed]] Week 2 [[Gevurah]] Week 3 [[Tiferet]] Week 4 [[Netzach]] Week 5 [[Hod]] Week 6 [[Yesod]] Week 7 [[Malchut]] </div> <div class="main"> <img src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/singingstranger/Omer-Count/master/Omer50%20End.jpg" width="600" height="600"> <h1>Counting the Omer</h1> There are seven themes: [[Chesed]] (love) [[Gevurah]] (discipline) [[Tiferet]] (compassion) [[Netzach]] (endurance) [[Hod]] (humility) [[Yesod]] (bonding) [[Malchut]] (nobility) The first week will be the week of Chesed. The first day of the first week will be Chesed in Chesed, the second day will be Gevurah in Chesed etc. The second week is the week of Gevurah. The first day of the second week is Chesed in Gevurah etc. <h1>So what is the Omer? / Disclaimer</h1> Below is a long essay I wrote to find this out myself. I am not jewish yet. I am studying to become jewish. So everything I write must be taken with a grain of salt. What I say does not represent Judaism and sometimes may not even represent my own thoughts on a subject. I merely am sharing here a collection of thoughts and research results. <h2>Tl;dR </h2> It's a 49 day long holiday that has its origins in Temple Judaism pre 80 CE history. The count was still continued despite the temple falling. In the middle ages it was given an additional spiritual meaning through Kabbalah (jewish mysticism) and in modern days there are attempts to find modern approaches to this ritual. I was encouraged to see it as a 7 week period of introspective growth and meditation. <h2>Historical facts: </h2> The Omer is an ancient historical measurement unit that was used to measure grain. Biblical law (Leviticus 23:9-11) said it was forbidden to use the fresh barley crop until you had donated one omer to the temple. A little later (Leviticus 23:15-16) it was commanded to count off seven weeks. This counting period, called S’firat HaOmer has a Torah origin. The temple was destroyed in 70 C.E. and since then, bringing this offering in person has been impossible. However, we can still count. This period of time, seven weeks also marks the passage of time between the barley crop and the wheat crop harvests. Shavuot is celebrated as the harvest festival of wheat. Passover is the harvest festival of barley. The third pilgirmage festival (harvest festival, Shalosh Regalim) is Sukkot. <h2>Theology: </h2> As mentioned earlier, Shavuot was traditionally the harvest festival of wheat. Harvest festivals meant bringing a sacrificial part to the temple. However, there are also important theological implications for why and how Passover, the Omer and Shavuot are what they are. Pesach begins with Exodus 11:4–6 where God tells the Israelites how to prepare for the incoming last plague and its implications. Leviticus 23:5–8 mentions the festival of the matzah and the compulsion to observe it. Exodus 12:14 commands that this festival shall be a festival of remembrance of the blood shed by God to free the Israelites. <h2>Liturgical: </h2> <h3>A Period of semi grieving: </h3> Halacha (traditional jewish law) forbids: haircuts shaving listening to instrumental music conducting weddings, parties and dinners with dancing Why? Officially, there is the story of a plague in the lifetime of Rabbi Akiba. It is said that 12000 chavruta pairs (Torah study buddies) died of the plague (historically, it’s probable that they actually died in the uprising of Bar Kochba at the hand of the romans, 132-136 C.E.). Talmud says that it was a punishment for not honoring each other properly as Torah scholars. Rabbi Yechiel Michel Epstein (1829–1908), author of Aruch HaShulchan, suggested to view this period as a grieving period for Jews who have died of organised anti-jewish campaigns throughout history (crusades, progroms, blood libel). This evolved into also including the Shoah into these lists. So wether or not the study buddies died in a political uprising or due to the plague, we can grieve for all jews who have lost their lives for the simple reason of being jews. <h3>The Omer time as the passage of the Israelites from Egypt to Sinai:</h3> Theologically, Passover represents the festival of Pesach as the leaving of Egypt. In the Torah, between leaving Egypt and arriving at Sinai, the Israelites are travelling the desert/wasteland, following Moses towards and unknown goal. They have just left behind their old homes, they have witnessed God’s power struggle with Pharao and they have seen the miracle of the parting of the reed sea. Now they are tested, over and over again. They are scared, hungry, thirsty and relying on an invisible benevolent power, that they also have just witnessed killing hundreds of Egyptians. They constantly complain to Moses and their faith is tested many different ways, as they are coming from a tradition that sees their Gods personified and they are now trying to get used to no longer having even the spiral of fire or the cloud to guide them. They only have a prophet. This is a time of testing, struggling, fearing and hoping. They are completely dependent on Moses for survival and they resent him for that. They have no home to go back to. The only way is forward. In this time, they slowly become ready for Torah. They have seen God’s power, they have accepted, to a degree, God’s fortitude and know that they are God’s chosen people. But that doesn’t mean they like it or are ready for the Godly decrees of the Torah yet. Moses and God will spend 40+ years struggling back and forth with each other, the Israelites and keeping hopes up. They will find that God’s original hopes for how to lead the people will not work. That in fact, they need to find other ways to communicate between people and God, find new methods to ensure the humans have a rhythm and something they can give God so they still believe. Sacrifices do not benefit God after all, they benefit mankind. Generations of slavery have left their mark on the people of Israel and they need to first get through and over that trauma before they can accept the decrees of their new lives. A new reality has begun but they need to be prepared before they can accept Torah. Considering that they immediately put up a golden calf when Moses is gone for a few days, they probably were not ready yet. The Exodus was an unearned gift, if not unprompted (as it says in Exodus that the blood of the Israelites cried out to God). So it had to be retroactively earned. The Omer counts the time between Egypt and Torah (Shavuot is the traditional day of accepting the Torah). This means that this period of time also representative of that mental transition from slavery to freedom under God. The acceptance of the gratitude, the role of being God’s people, chosen to have certain commitments and at least traditionally, certain benefits. The reluctance slowly wanes and the Israelites come to gratitude. Israelites become jews through slow spiritual elevation. This is just one way that the story can be interpreted and read. I may not personally even agree with these approaches, I only am processing them in writing. <h2>Modern approach</h2> Modern takes on why to celebrate/observe: Copied from: <a href="https://reformjudaism.org/blog/2015/04/07/why-count-omer-five-reasons-and-counting"> Reformjudaism.org</a> God said to: We read in Leviticus 23:15-16, “You shall count from the eve of the second day of Pesach, when an omer (barley sheaf) of grain is to be brought as an offering, seven complete weeks. The day after the seventh week of your counting will make 50 days, and you shall present a new meal offering to God.” In other words, God said to make sacrifices to mark these days. We don’t have the Temple anymore, so instead we count after dinner each night. It connects Passover to Shavuot: Passover is a big holiday of celebration. We celebrate freedom, which is mostly a happy thing (no more slavery, yay!) By preserving the count of the Omer, even without the Temple, the rabbis are reminding us that the Passover is not truly complete until we commemorate the giving of the Torah at Sinai on Shavuot. Freedom without responsibility is incomplete and unreal. By counting, we remind ourselves that the process is not yet finished. It fosters self-improvement: In preparation to receive the Torah, we work to become better Jews. The Kabbalists point out that the Omer is counted for seven weeks of seven days, and they match them with the seven sefirot through which God interacts with the world. Each of the seven days within those weeks are matched with the sefirot, also, and those various permutations of Godliness provide an opportunity for study and self improvement. Another tradition is to read and study Pirkei Avot (the first chapter of the Mishnah, which consists mostly of advice on proper behavior and attitude) during this season. It’s an expression of anticipation: When we are excited about something, we count the days to that event. It is also true that when we behave a particular way, we cultivate the emotions and the thoughts that go with that behavior. When we count the Omer, we cultivate excitement about Torah in our lives. It creates mindfulness: This one is my own, as far as I know. I know that the reason I never make it through the Omer is that I get distracted. It’s as if I have ADD of the soul. Forty-nine days is a long time to do anything, especially something as small and easy to forget as an additional blessing after eating. This year, I want to improve my attention span for Torah. I want to be mindful of Jewish time, and in the process, perhaps make better use of my time. </div>