Shavua Tov
As we continue the sacred journey of counting the Omer, tonight we arrive at the 31st day, Tiferet of Hod, the balance of compassion within humility.
This moment invites us to reflect not only on who we are individually, but on how we show up together. Humility in Jewish tradition is not about diminishing ourselves; it is about making space for others, for learning, and for collective strength. When we lead with humility, we become more open, more connected, and ultimately more powerful as a community.
Our shared work at the Tucson J is to strengthen Jewish community and create more vibrant Jewish life. That work is not diminished when we collaborate it is amplified. Working together, we do not give up power; rather, we gain strength. We deepen relationships, broaden impact, and embody the very values we seek to cultivate.
A teaching from Pirkei Avot reminds us:
“Who is honored? One who honors others.” (Pirkei Avot 4:1)
This wisdom speaks directly to Tiferet of Hod that true beauty (tiferet) emerges when humility (hod) is expressed through compassion, respect, and recognition of others. In honoring one another, we elevate the entire community.
This wisdom reflects Tiferet of Hod that true beauty (tiferet) emerges when humility (hod) is expressed through compassion, shared responsibility, and steady commitment. Each of us brings what we can, and together, we build something far greater than any one of us alone.
As we continue this Omer journey, may we embrace humility not as a limitation, but as an operating system for Jewish life one that allows us to listen deeply, act thoughtfully, and lead with integrity and care.
Bridge Over Troubled Water by Simon and Garfunkel provides a moving reminder of being present for one another with compassion and grace.
Also the V’ahavta gives musical voice to our enduring obligation to care for one another and build community through love.
May tonight’s counting inspire us to lead with humility, act with compassion, and continue building a stronger, more vibrant Jewish community, together.
בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה’ אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם, אֲשֶׁר קִדְּשָׁנוּ בְּמִצְוֹתָיו וְצִוָּנוּ עַל סְפִירַת הָעֹמֶר
Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to count the Omer
הַיּוֹם אֶחָד וּשְׁלֹשִׁים יוֹם, שֶׁהֵם אַרְבָּעָה שָׁבוּעוֹת וּשְׁלֹשָׁה יָמִים בָּעֹמֶר
Today is thirty-one days, which is four weeks and three days of the Omer
With gratitude for all you do to sustain and strengthen our community,
Cochenu b’Achduteynu | כחינו באחדותינו | Our strength is in our unity.
Am Yisrael Chai | עם ישראל חי
Todd Rockoff
President + CEO, Tucson J
