Shavuot – Festival of Weeks – The Reality of Infinity meets the Illusion of Finity.
~ by Rabbi Alan Scott Bachman
Infinity is reality. Infinity exists whether we choose to recognize it or not. What we call “finity” is nothing more than an illusionary construct. Like Infinity – Miracles exist. We are made up of Miracles and immersed in Miracles. The lack of miracles is an illusion. But like many illusions, our “thinking” can make the illusions of a lack of miracles, seem “real.” The more we open up our “thinking” to “infinity” and “miracles” – the more we recognize them!
Shavuot is a gateway where Infinity meets “Finity.” It is the gateway for all the power necessary to heal all sentient beings and the planet itself. This writing is long and perhaps complex at times, but it shows the interplay of the law of physics – which in my humble opinion, proves infinity, as hard as it is to understand, and the illusion of what we think is finite. This is critical for understanding that the universe was not only created by G!D, but has infinite characteristics that can only be created by an Infinite G!D.
Shavuot is one of three festivals in the Torah.
The festival of Passover is when the Divine and Human planetary agents become engaged. The Festival of Weeks – Shavuot – is the Wedding between the Divine and said Human planetary agents. The Festival of Booths – Sukkot – is the dwelling with the Divine.
These festivals have quite an interplay with the numbers 7 and 8. Passover is 7 days in Israel but is 8 days for those in exile. On the 8th day we read about the Wolf lying down with the Lamb – Peace on G!d’s mountain – basically the Messianic Era when the realm of Divinity reigns on Earth. Shavuot starts the 8th week! And Sukkot is 8 days – with the 8th day being a special day – Shemini Atzeret – another powerful day like Shavuot. (Side note – the sacrifices – called “Karbanot” in the Torah – rooted in the word “karov” – to get close – also can be explained as the sacrifice which resulted in the transition from life to death – from the illusory finite to the true reality of infinity – with the idea that an Infinite G!D would show up at such meeting of finity/infinity.)
Shavuot carries out the interplay of 7 – finity and 8 – infinity. We have seven holes in our heads, seven colors of the rainbow that we see, 7 notes in a typical musical scale, etc. – all of which show a “touchy feely” way of being “finite” while 8 goes beyond. For Shavuot – we count 7 times 7 weeks, which is 49 days. It is those 49 days that we literally count from Passover to Shavuot. But the Festival of Weeks is on the 50th day. Another way to look at the 50th day is that it is the beginning of the EIGHTH week! And the Infinite and Finite meet with revelation that results in the Torah – not just THE Torah – but the continuous and unfolding transmission on Mt. Sinai of a Torah that guides us through various times and places.
This same interplay of the finite and infinite exists in the laws of physics and music.
It is said that someone thousands of years ago picked up a dead tortoise on a beach in the country we refer to as “China.” When the tortoise was picked up by a remaining “gut” – the shell rang out the note of the string. Having a single note – that was interesting – but a very initial stage of musical notes. And frankly, if anyone went to a concert and only heard one note throughout, they would probably demand a refund.
So if we take a note, let’s say an “A” note – let’s use the A note commonly known as 440 cycles per second. That is one note – like the gut ringing out from the tortoise shell. How do we get other notes? Stay tuned () for more on that. For now, let’s stick to the initial note for a minute. We will find that after 7 notes of a scale we get the same sounding note. Let’s call the note, one octave up from A, A-2. The original A notes vibrates at 440 cycles per second. A-2 , the A note one octave up, will vibrate at 880 cycles per second. And the A note one octave up from A – 2, will be 1760 cycles per second, and so forth. Each octave up on that A note will double the cycles of the waves. This is call a 2/1 relationship. But all the notes sound like A – so the music is still a little bit on the boring side and most people will probably still demand a refund of a concert of just A notes, even if they use different octaves of it!
What else is set out in a 2/1 relationship? The planets generally follow this. Mercury is a certain distance from the sun. Double that Mercury distance (2/1 – these are all approximate), and you get where Venus is located. Double the distance that Venus is located, and you get where Earth is located. And so forth! This is called Bode’s law of the planetary layout. Now there was a problem. Continuing with that 2/1 relationship, there should be a planet between Mars and Jupiter? This created a conundrum. However, it is resolved by the scientific theory that a planet – Ceres – between Mars and Jupiter – is in that 2/1 position – broke up into the asteroid belt. So the 2/1 relationship of the A notes going through octaves and the planetary layout works out. So, we see octaves in the planetary layouts. Below – it will be shown how the lunar cycles are more akin to the “perfect fifths” which provides us the rest of the notes!
So how do we get the other notes? Each A note at every octave – when perfectly tuned will have their cycles per second line up in a tight embrace in our hearing. One frequency cycle of a lower A note, accounts for two cycles of the A note one octave above it and so forth. If one tunes these octave with the human ear, one can hear the tightness of the two A notes, once there 2/1 relationship of cycles is lined up.
If we change the 2/1 relationship to 3/2, we hear a lineup again. This is how we get the perfect fifths which lead to all of the customary notes. We HEAR such a line up – a tightness between two notes – with the perfect FIFTH. As stated, a perfect fifth does not have the 2/1 relationship of octaves, but has a 3/2 relationship. This is where two cycles per second of the A note, for example, lines up with the 3 cycles per second of the E note – a fifth above the A note.
So now we have two notes, A and E. But we have more notes than that using the 3/2 perfect fifth relationship! As stated, take the A note and the 3/2 relationship results in the E note above. A perfect fifth (3/2 relationship) over the E note results in a B note. A perfect fifth above the B note results in an F#. A perfect fifth above the F# results in a C# note. A perfect fifth above the C# note results in a G#. A perfect fifth above the G# results in a D#, A perfect fifth above the D# results in an A#, a perfect fifth above the A# results in an F note. A perfect fifth above the F note results in a C note. A perfect fifth above the C note results in a G note. A perfect fifth above the G note results in a D note. A perfect fifth above the D note results in an A note which one would think would sound the same as the A note seven octaves below!
So we get all 12 notes using perfect fifths, to identify all the notes. Seven of those notes will generally make a particular scale. (This is beyond this articles, but scientific studies have shown that young children all around the world – sing with a seven note scale – regardless of cultures – called “ursong.”)
So how many octaves did it take to get from the original A note, using the spiral of perfect fifths, to get to the A note above? It took seven turns of the spiral. And interesting using the basic 7 note scale – 49 notes (like the 49 days leading to Shavuot)!
But there is something special about that A note that it took seven octaves up in the circle of fifths to obtain! First, it is the beginning of the 8th OCTAVE! Second, it does not sound the same as the A note seven octaves below it! It sounds sharp from the A note seven octaves below. It began a new round of the spiral – or in other words, the spiral of the fifths – in truth does not end – and is infinite – so that 50th note – is like infinity!
Well, it was hard in the finite world to play music with the perfect fifths! People wanted music that would make it possible to tune a harpsichord, for instance. So equal temperament developed where each fifth was flattened a little bit, in order that the “A” note that took seven octaves to get back to another A note using the circle of fiths, would sounf the same as the A note seven octaves below.
Infinity is the natural physical world of musical notes, but humankind artificially altered it in most music we hear today.
Now the plot gets bigger. There is the concept of Pythagoras’s comma. This showed that there was a gap between the lunar year and the solar year. That gap very closely mimics the gap between the A note seven octaves up (using perfect fifths to get there as in nature and that note importantly begins the EIGHTH OCTAVE) and the sound of the original A note (before the flattening). This gap is related mathematically to the gap between the lunar and solar year. The lunar year is cyclical and unending – like a spiral – it is infinite! It was considered feminine. The solar year was considered linear and associated with the masculine sun. It is probably not a coincidence that equal temperament, which flattened the perfect fifths, was popularized at a time when women in “western society” were persecuted for various spiritual/medical engagements. But the law of music follows more closely to the idea of the moon and the idea of infinity! Hmm – no wonder the moon is so important in Judaism.
It is also no surprise how much the spiral and the moon were of major concern to the ancients in rock art, etc.
Infinity is hard for the human mind to grasp. But it exists. No one can state the highest number. It is infinite. No one has found the end of the universe. It is infinite.
And the ancient concept of Divinity was often identified as infinite. The Sikhs beautifully state – Sat Sri Akal – God is Infinite. The same concept applies in Judaism, etc.
As Dr. Wayne Dyer, of blessed memory, stated: “If you believe it, you will see it.”
The mixed multitude in Mitzrayim (the narrows – what is referred to as Egypt as the Nile supported a narrow development up and down its banks) were confined in their thinking. They had to go out in the vast desert, a vision quest, to open their minds to revelation. This occurred in steps – symbolically related to the 49 day count – of steps – between Passover and Shavuot. May we learn the importance of envisioning a world of love, harmony, and peace. It starts with the vision. Action follows.
Shavuot teaches us to think of “seven times seven” (49 days) as finite, leading to the beginning of an eight week – which leads to the intersection of infinity and the finite. We actually do not “count” the first day of the EIGHT week – because it is a day of infinity, in my humble opinion. Shavuot is beyond “numbers.” It is no coincidence that when one looks at the number 8 – one sees a never ending circle above and a never ending circle below – to indicate this number. This is the spiritual 8 – the infinite – where the infinite above and the infinite (appearing finite) below meet!
Infinity is the truth in music, whereas artificial music is made finite by flattening perfect fifths.
The truth is infinite. “Finite” is the actual illusion. We think a dining room table is physical because we can see and touch it. But in reality if we get to the core of every atom – it is an illusion of a wavelength and frequency that allows it to be seen and touched. Change the wavelength and frequency, and it can be heard, it can be light, it can be invisible, etc.
May we open our minds on Shavuot to all that is necessary to heal this world, knowing that we live in an infinite world with an infinite Divine. That infinite Divine created the entire universe. That is enough power for anyone to heal this world. If we believe it, we will see it! May we all recognize all the infinite miracles within us, around us and beyond; all of which pick up the never ending transmission from “Mt. Sinai” by an infinitely loving and merciful G!d. May it be so.
Love and Blessings,
Reb Alan
P.S. I sometimes speak to various people that indicate that there are so many tragedies in the world and therefore there is no G!d. But G!d is infinite and mysterious. We must not let the tragedies stop us from creating a world without these pains. We must believe that in our visioning and then we can create it. The Torah transmission is part of the delegation of the Infinite G!d to each of us. If G!d were to do everything, then we might not need the Torah – a guidance for our delegation. Interestingly, that this delegation to us occurs after Yitro (Mose’s father-in-law) teaches Moses how to delegate. It is upon us – Aleinu!
Fasting ` A Synopsis
Fasting and Jewish Belief ~ by Rebbetzin Andalin Shekhinah
I was asked by a Muslim member of House of Prayer for All Peoples, Zeynep Kariparduc, to sit on a panel at a special Interfaith Ramadan Iftar dinner this coming March 16, 2024. I agreed, and went to work on an outline of Jewish customs regarding fasting. So many faith systems include the practice of fasting ~ another common thread as we get to know each other.
Yes, Jewish religion includes the observance of several fast days as a form of practice and reflection. Some notable fast days include Yom Kippur, Tisha B’Av, and the Fast of Esther. These fasts have different significance and reasons for observance within the Jewish calendar. Additional Jewish fast days include the Fast of the Firstborn, observed before Passover, and the Fast of Gedaliah, observed on the third day of Tishrei (which usually occurs in September – October.) These fasts are observed for various reasons, ranging from commemorating historical events to expressing repentance and seeking spiritual reflection.
Following is a brief discussion/outline of three of these observances:
- Yom Kippur (Takes place on the 10th of Tishrei, the 7th month on the Jewish Calendar.)
Yom Kippur, also known as “the Day of Atonement,” marks what many believe is the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, and fasting is a central element of this observance. The Yom Kippur fast lasts for approximately 25 hours, beginning at sundown the evening before the holiday and concluding at nightfall the following day.
During this period, Jewish individuals abstain from food and drink, refraining from physical pleasures and focusing on spiritual reflection, repentance, and prayer. The fast symbolizes a deep commitment to seeking forgiveness for sins and striving for spiritual purity. Many devotees also refrain from other activities, such as bathing and wearing leather shoes, to emphasize the solemn and introspective nature of the day.
Breaking the fast is traditionally done with a festive meal, often featuring [1]symbolic foods. The Yom Kippur fast serves as a collective and individual journey toward spiritual renewal and reconciliation with both oneself and the divine.
Health Considerations
It is important to note that within Judaism, the value of preserving one’s health takes precedence over fasting on Yom Kippur. Rabbis and Jewish authorities recognize that individuals with health problems, the elderly, pregnant women, and those who may become faint or unwell are exempt from the obligation to fast on Yom Kippur.
This principle is grounded in the broader Jewish concept of pikuach nefesh, פיקוח נפש, which means “saving a soul” or “saving a life.” It prioritizes the preservation of life and well-being. Jewish law permits individuals facing health concerns to break the fast, ensuring they prioritize their health and avoid potential harm.
Rabbis and community leaders often emphasize the importance of consulting with healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about fasting, encouraging a balance between religious observance and individual well-being. This approach aligns with the understanding that religious practices should adapt to accommodate health considerations and promote the overall welfare of individuals.
- Tisha B’Av, (A solemn Jewish day of mourning that commemorates a series of tragic events in Jewish history, primarily the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem. It usually falls in July or August of the Gregorian calendar.)
**Key Aspects:**
- **Temple Destruction:**
– Tisha B’Av primarily mourns the destruction of both the First Temple by the Babylonians in 586 BCE and the Second Temple by the Romans in 70 CE.
- **Other Historical Tragedies:**
– In addition to the Temple destructions, Tisha B’Av is associated with various other historical calamities, including the expulsion of Jews from Spain in 1492.
- **Fasting and Mourning:**
– Observers of Tisha B’Av typically fast for 25 hours, refraining from eating, drinking, bathing, and other comforts. It is a day of deep reflection and mourning.
- **Reading the Book of Lamentations:**
– The Book of Lamentations, known as “Eicha” in Hebrew, is traditionally read on Tisha B’Av. It is a collection of poetic laments mourning the destruction of Jerusalem.
- **Restrictions:**
– Traditional mourning practices, such as sitting on the floor or low stools, avoiding greetings, and refraining from various pleasurable activities, are observed.
- **Synagogue Services:**
– Special prayers and liturgical readings are conducted in synagogues. The atmosphere is somber, reflecting the gravity of the historical events being commemorated.
- **Hope for Redemption:**
– While Tisha B’Av is a day of mourning, it also carries a message of hope. Many prayers and reflections express the longing for the rebuilding of the Temple and the coming of the Messianic era.
The observance of Tisha B’Av is a powerful reminder of the historical challenges faced by the Jewish people and serves as a day for introspection, repentance, and a collective hope for a future marked by peace and redemption.
- The Fast of Esther (observed on the day before Purim, commemorating the events leading up to the salvation of the Jewish people as recounted in the Book of Esther. This fast typically falls on the 13th day of the Hebrew month of Adar.
During the Fast of Esther, individuals fast from dawn until nightfall. The fast is a remembrance of Queen Esther’s fasting before approaching King Xerxes to intercede on behalf of her people and thwart the wicked plans of Haman.
Apart from the fast, the day is also marked by reading the Book of Esther, known as the Megillah, during the evening and morning services. The story of Esther, Purim’s central narrative, highlights themes of courage, faith, and divine intervention.
The culmination of the Fast of Esther leads into the joyous celebration of Purim, where the Jewish community gathers to listen to the Megillah, exchange gifts, and partake in festive meals, emphasizing the triumph of good over evil.
Significance of Other Minor Fasts
The Fast of the Firstborn is a Jewish tradition observed on the day before Passover. It commemorates the salvation of the firstborn Israelites during the tenth plague in Egypt, when the Angel of Death passed over their homes. The fast is typically observed by firstborn males refraining from food until the Passover Seder, emphasizing gratitude for their deliverance.
The Fast of Gedaliah is a minor Jewish fast observed on the third of Tishrei, the day after Rosh Hashanah. It commemorates the assassination of Gedaliah ben Ahikam, a Babylonian-appointed governor of Judah, during the time of the Babylonian exile. The fast serves as a reminder of the tragic consequences of internal strife among the Jewish people and encourages reflection on unity and avoiding destructive conflicts.
In General
In Jewish tradition, fasting is often associated with specific days designated for observance, such as Yom Kippur, Tisha B’Av, or the Fast of Esther. While these are the primary days of fasting, some individuals may choose to fast on other occasions for personal reasons, such as seeking spiritual reflection or penance. However, it’s essential to note that individual practices can vary, and not all Jews may choose to fast outside of the established observances.
[1] The meal that breaks the fast at the end of Yom Kippur, called the “break-the-fast” meal or “seudah,” typically includes light and easily digestible foods. Traditional symbolic foods may vary among Jewish communities, but common choices include:
- **Challah**: Braided egg bread, often served as a sweet version.
- **Fish**: Often symbolizing fertility and abundance.
- **Eggs**: A symbol of renewal and life.
- **Dairy**: Various dairy dishes like cheese and blintzes, signifying the sweetness of Torah.
- **Honey Cake or Sweet Desserts**: Representing wishes for a sweet new year.
- **Fruits and Vegetables**: Fresh and easy-to-digest options.
These foods are chosen for their symbolism, and the emphasis is on starting the meal gently after a day of fasting and reflection. Different families and communities may have their own specific traditions for the break-the-fast meal.
Welcome Rosh Chodesh Adar I I
with New Moon Blessing.blessings of joy,
friendship and love,
serenity,
and dignity,
and sustenance,
and radiance.
guide our acts
temper our lives
as we age
our sweetest selves
Welcome Rosh Chodesh Adar I
This Thursday evening we move into the new month of Adar I. New Moon ~Rosh Chodesh Adar I 2024 / רֹאשׁ חוֹדֶשׁ אַדָר א׳ ~ 5784
Rosh Chodesh Adar I is the beginning of the Hebrew month of Adar I, which is an additional month that occurs in leap years in the Jewish calendar. Yes! We are in a leap year on the Hebrew calendar. It marks the start of a joyful period leading up to the holiday of Purim.
During this time, we increase our expressions of joy! As the Talmud says, “When Adar enters, joy increases.” Our new month of Adar I for Hebrew Year 5784 begins at sundown this Thursday – February 8th and ends at nightfall on Saturday, February 10th.
Under the celestial veil of the upcoming new moon, Rosh Chodesh whispers of mystic energies weaving through the fabric of Adar I. As the moon waxes, it invites seekers to delve into the realms of introspection and renewal. A cosmic dance unfolds, blending the ethereal and the earthly, heralding a time where the unseen forces of possibility converge with the tangible rhythms of existence. Embrace the sacred unfolding, where the new moon illuminates pathways to self-discovery and spiritual growth.
Our friend Melinda Ribner writes: “Whenever we experience the beauty of our own holy soul, we are joyful, because we experience ourselves as part of G!d. We experience the vastness of who we really are, not limited to the physical world nor to our physical bodies, nor our personalities nor ego identities.”
Regardless of any challenges we face, may the month of Adar I be a month of blessings in the words of Marcia Falk: blessings of goodness, blessings of joy, peace and kindness, friendship and love, creativity, strength, serenity, fulfilling work and dignity, satisfaction, success, and sustenance, physical health and radiance. May truth and justice guide our acts and compassion temper our lives that we may blossom as we age and become our sweetest selves. May it be so.
Love and blessings,
Rebbetzin Andalin
Shavuot – Festival of Weeks – The Reality of Infinity meets the Illusion of Finity.
Celebrating the New Year for Trees ~ Tu BiShivat
Tu B’Shevat for Hebrew Year 5784 begins at sundown on this coming Wednesday, 24 January 2024 and ends at nightfall on Thursday, 25 January 2024.
In a nutshell: Tu BiShvat, also known as the New Year for Trees, is a Jewish holiday celebrating the renewal of nature. Traditionally observed in late winter, it symbolizes the awakening of the earth as trees begin to bloom. During Tu BiShvat, people often plant trees, enjoy fruits, and reflect on environmental conservation. It’s a beautiful occasion that highlights the interconnectedness of humanity and nature.
As we begin to emerge from the dark days of winter, we begin to experience a sort of rebirth. In the Middle East, this is the time of year when the sap begins to rise in the trees, and blossoms start to appear on the almond trees. Yes! Things are waking up now! Rav Abraham Isaac Kook, z”l said that at this time of year, “every part of the vegetable world is singing a song and bringing forth a secret of the divine mystery of creation.” He also said that, “The old shall be renewed, and the new shall be made holy.” This month we are encouraged to plant seeds which will bloom in the month of Nissan.
I especially like a midrash found in the Babylonian Talmud from thousands of years ago, Tractate Ta’anit 23a. The story is told of a gardener who was planting a carob tree. When Honi the Circle Maker asked her how long it would take for the tree to bear fruit, she said, “It will take 70 years!” Taken aback, Honi expressed the fact that she would not live to see the fruit. Her response: “When I was born into this world, I found many beautiful carob trees planted by those who came before me. Just as my ancestors planted trees for me, I am planting trees for my children and grandchildren so they will have carob to eat.” And the story concludes that Honi learned from this experience that it is better to think of others than to be selfish. It is said that he helped to plant carob trees from that point forward so that all of the children and grandchildren would have plenty to eat in the future. These carob trees and their delicious fruit are found in the northern part of Israel today!
We are in the month of Shevat, which Melinda (Mindy) Ribner teaches “is an optimal time to conceive of new projects and to open to newness in you life in general. Say ‘yes’ to life. Breathe out the old and breathe in the new.” This of course reminds me of Reb Alan’s song, Say Yes to Life, Alan Scott Bachman ©1989, which we often sing at the conclusion of our Rosh Hashanah services:
Say Yes to Life – Celebrate the Earth
Say Yes to Life – Celebrate Your Birth
Say Yes to Life – Let the Love Flow
Say Yes to Life – Let the World Know
My Love – All that is Given
Life is worth Livin’ – It is all within
My heart – Feels the Joy in
The World we are Sharin’ – The one we are Mirrorin’
Say Yes to Life – Join with One and All
Say Yes to Life – Listen to the Universal Call
Say Yes to Life – What you Say Comes True
Say Yes to Life – Say it in Everything You Do
My Love – All that is Given
Life is worth Livin’ – It is all within
My heart – Feels the Joy in
The World we are Sharin’ – The one we are Mirrorin’
Watch the Earth Transform – Cleansed like a Newborn
Light up the World with Dance and Song
Envision a Peace that will last long!
Say Yes to Life – Celebrate the Earth
Say Yes to Life – Celebrate Your Birth
Say Yes to Life – Let the Love Flow
Say Yes to Life – Let the World Know
Say Yes to Life – Join with One and All
Say Yes to Life – Listen to the Universal Call
And here we are, approaching the full moon of Shevat when the New Year of Trees is celebrated. Tu (meaning 15 as in the 15th day) b’ Shevat! It is so fitting that we do Reb Alan’s Song, “Say Yes to Life” at Rosh Hashanah as well as during Tu BiShivat. Mindy explains that the kabbalists of Safed in the 1500s believed that Tu B’ Shevat “is a spiritual and mystical Rosh Hashanah for us, a time of new beginnings, even a time of ushering in redemption for the world.”
She is a Tree of Life to those who hold fast to her –
this tree is the Lady, the Shekhinah. – Zohar 1:27B
Love and blessings,
Rebbetzin Andalin
Rosh Chodesh Tammuz 2023 / רֹאשׁ חוֹדֶשׁ תָּמוּז
Rosh Chodesh Tamumz for Hebrew Year 5783 begins at sundown on Sunday, 18 June 2023 and ends at nightfall on Tuesday, 20 June 2023.
~RebbetzinAndalin sharing thoughts on Tammuz
In her book, Kabbalah Month by Month, Melinda Ribner explains that the month of Tammuz is a time to “reach deep inside to muster our own resources and see if we have the inner strength and discernment to stay focused and on the spiritual path.” Tammuz is about maintaining the endurance to make it through the heat of the summer, and managing the heat of our passions.
In addition to its Babylonian roots, the word “Tammuz” has Hebrew resonances: it means “the completeness (or innocence) of strength.” The essential challenge of Tammuz is to meet the external imbalance (longer days, shorter nights), with internal balance – to be what author Miriam Maron calls a “Visionary Warrior,” by maintaining our boundaries and caring for our inner powerhouses.
I invite you to join us in a mediation journey, listening to the specially chosen words of Rabbi Callie Schulman, Associate Rabbi at Temple De Hirsch Sinai in Seattle, WA who aims to help us identify those inner resources and meet our Visionary Warrior, so that we may acknowledge the fullness of our own strength:
Guided Meditation
Relaxed, unfettered, and unburdened, a path appears at your feet. You begin to walk it. You’re in a safe place, filled with familiar and comforting sights, sounds, and smells. As you walk, begin to notice your surroundings. Where are you? What do you see? What do you smell? What do you hear? You maintain a calm pace as you wander through this landscape of familiarity, letting the gentle rise and fall of your breath propel you forward. These familiar views begin to fade away as the path opens up ahead and you begin to walk in a new territory. What does the terrain look like? The sky? What do you see in the distance? You arrive at a fork in the road, and see a new track.
Sit or lie comfortably in a quiet place. Once you’re physically situated, take three deep, cleansing breaths. Let each exhalation remove another layer of tension, stress, and distraction from the day. Focus on the natural rise and fall of each subsequent breath as you gently acknowledge and let go of whatever stray thoughts cross your mind. Imagine the room you’re in filled with a cleansing, bright light. Breathe it in. Let it course through you, from the top of your head to bottom of your feet. Call attention to each part of your body as the light passes through it. Surrender any remaining tension.
Lead up a gentle slope to a hilltop. Leave the beaten path and climb the hill. When you arrive at the top, take a 360 degree turn to survey the scene. What challenges have you already encountered along your path to arrive at this place? What roads were left untaken? What do you see on the road ahead?
There’s a tree on the hill before you. Sitting in its shade is your inner Visionary Warrior, waiting to greet you. As you approach, notice her demeanor and body language. How does she present herself to you? How does she greet you? What is her dress and what is she carrying? How did she come to possess this object? Which of her gifts did she gain in battle and which did she receive at birth? She offers you her hand. You grasp it, feeling the completeness of your strength, which comes from the totality of all your lived experiences. You feel the innocence of your strength, because there is something innocent in recognizing the wholeness of those experiences, and owning the sum of your parts. Your inner Visionary Warrior’s balance and power course through you as you receive gifts hard-won and naturally given.
As you step away from your encounter in the shade, descend the hill and return to the path, carrying with you all of the gifts of your inner Visionary Warrior. They’re weightless, but their presence is profound. You feel a sturdiness in your bones as you prepare to continue along your path. Focus on the rise and fall of your breath, and bring your attention back to your physical self as you slowly bring movement back to your limbs. With your eyes still closed, take three deep breaths. When you’re ready, open your eyes. Take a moment to think about what you saw, about your encounter with the inner Visionary Warrior, and what gifts you now carry forward with you.
As you step away from your encounter in the shade, descend the hill and return to the path, carrying with you all of the gifts of your inner Visionary Warrior. They’re weightless, but their presence is profound. You feel a sturdiness in your bones as you prepare to continue along your path. Focus on the rise and fall of your breath, and bring your attention back to your physical self as you slowly bring movement back to your limbs. With your eyes still closed, take three deep breaths. When you’re ready, open your eyes. Take a moment to think about what you saw, about your encounter with the inner Visionary Warrior, and what gifts you now carry forward with you.
Blessing for the New Month of Tammuz ~ from Marcia Falk’s The Book of Blessings:
May the month of Tammuz be a month of blessings: blessings of goodness, blessings of joy, peace and kindness, friendship and love, creativity, strength, serenity, fulfilling work and dignity, satisfaction, success, and sustenance, physical health and radiance. May truth and justice guide our acts and compassion temper our lives that we may blossom as we age and become our sweetest selves. May it be so.