One thing I’m thinking about: Counting the Omer. A thread!

I’m thinking about it because I’ve never been one to count the Omer – I lose track or forget to count. And I am thinking of ways to be closer to my traditions.

The main way I have kept track in the past is through the delightful Counting the Homer, a Simpsons spin on the Omer. (If you have not seen it I highly recommend: https://homercalendar.net/ )

For those that don’t know: On the second day of Pesach we start counting the 49 days to Shavuot. Historically, this is when there would be a celebration of the wheat harvest. Even after the Temple got destroyed and offerings were no longer brought, we continued to count the days.

Lately I’m thinking a lot about counting. Counting how many days it has been since I could be with my family & friends in person. Counting how many days until I can do so again. Counting how many zoom calls I’m on or how many people don’t understand how to mute themselves.

When I watch CNN, they have an image counting how many have tested positive for the virus, how many died.

If part of counting the Omer is about a period of ritual mourning (traditional Jewish law forbids haircuts, conducting weddings etc. during this period), it seems we’re at a national time of mourning.

One thing I do like about the Omer is that each day of the Omer is tied to a Kabbalistic practice of each week having an essential trait, and each day having an essential trait (7 x 7 of them).

So, for example week 1 is Chesed (lovingkindness), week 2 is Strength, week 3 is Glory, and so on. (Although I have seen different sources say different translations for week three?) Each day also has a trait associated with it, so you get all the permutations.

So you might be on the Week of strength and the day of lovingkindness. It starts with Chesed of Chesed. And what better way to start a period of mourning than with kindness x kindness?

Lovingkindness in the world, and lovingkindness in yourself. Being kind to others – being kind to yourself. That’s how I choose to view it.

Anyway, that was just some idle thoughts about the Omer. Do you count? What are your thoughts? #Omer #CountTheOmer #jtwitter #jewishtwitter