Today our focus is on the left side of the Tree of Life. The connection is experienced between Gevurah at the left shoulder, and Hod at the left hip. Gevurah provides form for the emotional energies from Chesed, while Hod provides sensations that form from the physical energies flowing from Netzach. Hod is “Glory”, the fulfilment of physical sensation.

It is through the left side of the Tree that energy finds its form into the world. The goal is to continually bring energy and form into harmony, that the form may more truly express the unfolding possibilities inherent in the energy that arises. But if the form grows rigid, it cannot express itself fully, as it limits expansion.

All forms grow rigid over time. The the nature of form is to perpetuate itself, and if it cannot expand, it will grow dense and rigid. All energies can overwhelm. That is the nature of force. Negative judgements keep form constrained. Blessings invite flexibility, and foster growth. Therefore we bless the sensations we are manifesting in physical forms, that we might become more, that we can grow more fully into the being that G-d wants us to be. Today, I acknowledge each feeling, each sensation and each perception as a wonder in itself.

Reflections

Belief & Trust

Belief is not enough—you need trust.

The Talmud says that before a robber breaks in, he prays that G-d should help him. He believes in G-d, but he doesn’t trust Him to provide him an honest living—and so he steals and murders instead.

Trust in G-d is when your belief changes the way you live.