Netzach sh’b’Hod – Endurance of Humility
Knowing how much space to take up can be an ongoing challenge in one’s life. One may need to continually endure to feel strength within their own humility. Here is my own reflection on learning how to conquer my own humility, for OmerFrom the second day of Passover until Shavuot, Jews count seven weeks – seven times seven days – to commemorate the period between the Exodus from Egypt and the Revelation at Sinai. When the Temple stood, a certain measure (omer) of barley was offered on the altar each day; today, we merely count out the days. Day 32 (Netzach sh’b’Hod – endurance of humility).
Dear Humility,
You are here in the restless nights when i can’t sleep filled with a worry that consumes me as my children sleep nearby
Knowing you call on me to travel instantly when the phone call comes that I’m needed two states away
You cause the fights over who washed more dishes who prepped more meals and who cleaned the house last
I feel you in the joyous silent tears of that long awaited hug
You sparkle in my eye as I recall a memory that seems too far away now
The countless conversations of reassurance come back over and over filled with your urging
You conspire with the universe to care for my loved ones as they journey their own way every day
Convincing me that they are yours alone to tend to, nurture, keep, or let go again with the hope of returning to
I do it all for you, Humility, and with your ever present guidance
And I hope you’re out there waiting to pick me up too.
Image by D’vorah Horn from her set of Omer Practice Cards (2016).
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