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Steadfastness

B”H

yesod shebbe malchus

(foundation within sovereignty)

Photo by James Wheeler from Pexels

A strong foundational belief system is necessary in order to maintain a sense of autonomy. Without reference points, in regard to one’s identity, it would be too easy to be swayed by this, that or the other opinion, trend, or viewpoints of others. A tenacious adherence to a set of values, beliefs, or overall conception of oneself will be a fence around an individual’s autonomy.

Otherwise, we would be subject to drown in a sea of nihilism, where values do not matter, and life has no directive towards an ultimate purpose. G-d forbid. Therefore, to cling to the truth through deveykus is paramount not only to connect to G-d, but to also remain steadfast on the derech (path) of life.

Omer Day 48

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Look Above

B”H

Malchus shebbe yesod

(sovereignty within foundation)

Despite whatever circumstances we may encounter in life, if we have a strong foundation we will be able to meet these challenges with dignity, a sense of self autonomy and a calm reserve, knowing that ultimately we are not in control of external events in any sphere of our lives, personal, communal, or global. Although this sounds counterintuitive, we may feel reassured that when we place our trust in G-d, acknowledging His sovereignty, we do not have to stand alone in the face of adversity.

Therefore, when we falter, because we fail to acknowledge that our own sovereignty is limited, we can rest in the knowledge that everything H’Shem (the L-RD) does is for the good. We can not control externals, however we may choose how to respond. “I will lift up mine eyes unto the mountains: From whence shall my help come? My help cometh from the L-RD, Who made heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1-2, JPS 1917 Tanach).

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Groundedness

B”H

yesod shebbe yesod

(foundation within foundation)

Below the surface of the earth, rests the foundation of a building, the support of an infrastructure. In the same manner, man is like a tree, whose roots provide a reinforcement against the storms of life. “And he shall be like a tree planted by streams of water, that bringeth forth its fruit in its season, and whose leaf doth not wither; and in whatsoever he doeth he shall prosper” (Psalm 1:3, JPS 1917 Tanach).

The sefirah (attribute) of yesod may be understood as portraying foundational beliefs and attitudes, corresponding to what is most important in our lives. Within the context of a daily existence, some people are more intentional, with regard to living in accord with clear beliefs that generate proper conduct, based upon a specific set of truths. Others, upon examining themselves, may find that their beliefs, attitudes, and behavior are derived from various sources; whereupon, these sources may be disparate, not constituting a consistent worldview.

We should ask ourselves upon examination (heshbon hanefesh – an accounting of the soul), whether our underlying assumptions are able to withstand the harsh realities of life that may pour down upon us. Will our prevailing attitudes about life enable us to weather the various storms that we may encounter along the road of life? If not, then we should consider adding a little more support to our foundation.

Omer – 41 Days

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Practical Goals

B”H

Hod shebbe yesod

(humility within foundation)

Humility facilitates the building of a foundation in life, by keeping our ambition in check; any goal in life needs to be practical, that is within the bounds of our abilities. We are finite beings, only capable of what G-d intends for us, through His bestowal of any natural gifts we may claim as part of our character. While it is good to reach beyond our current level of understanding, as well as our talents, we should be circumspect in order to make a modest estimation of our capabilities. Yet, at the same time, building a foundation also requires a healthy acknowledgment and appreciation of our talents, so that we may succeed at achieving our realized dreams. Additionally, we need to acknowledge G-d’s role as the Master Architect, whose blueprint for our lives compels us to keep Him in mind at all times, while we make plans for ourselves. 

Omer
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realize your dream

B”H

Netzach shebbe yesod

(endurance within foundation)

The emotional correspondents of the day are netzach (endurance) within yesod (foundation). Building a foundation in life requires a persistent endeavor. It is through netzach that goals may be brought to fruition. The quality of endurance, constant effort despite the challenges in life, gives us the tenacity to achieve our dreams. Yet, the actual building of a foundation in life, requires channeling one’s ideas into a realized dream. To dream is not enough; rather, to accomplish one’s dreams, in the actual sense, is to draw on the quality of netzach.

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foundation of endurance

B”H

12 Iyar 5780

May 6, 2020

yesod shebbe netzach

(foundation within endurance)

A secure foundation in life, lends support to the coping styles that are of benefit, in order to endure the challenges in life. I recently read how mental health practitioners in NYC, including psychologists and counselors, are extremely challenged by the circumstances of their caseloads, inasmuch that not only are they inundated with the same concerns of their clients, namely anxiety derived from COVID-19 related issues, they also, admittedly so, are experiencing the same issues in their own lives. Wherein, caught up with the same issues, they are drawing support from their colleagues and mentors. The building blocks of support from others, family, friends, or professionsals, may serve as a structure, a safety net for endurance, especially, during these challenging times. Yet, we would be neglecting our complete health, if we do not seek support from Above.

“I lift up my eyes unto the mountains: from whence shall my help come? My help cometh from the L-RD, Who made heaven and earth.”

– Psalm 121:1-2, JPS 1917 Tanach