The Power of Counting

The Power of Counting

On the Jewish calendar, the Counting of the Omer is an ancient tradition, bridging Passover and Shavuot. For 49 days, we pause each evening to mark time, counting one day closer to receiving the Torah—a journey that encourages reflection, anticipation, and spiritual growth.

In a way, this tradition has a parallel in the art of juggling. Juggling, like counting the Omer, is rooted in rhythm, focus, and an awareness of each moment as it passes. When we juggle, we constantly count the balls (or clubs, or rings) in the air, maintaining balance and mindfulness. Each toss becomes its own mini-count, a beat that keeps us grounded in the present, like a musical note that fades, followed by the next.

So how can we bring the sacred counting of the Omer into our juggling practice? Here are some thoughts on connecting these two experiences:

1. Intentional Counting

Counting the Omer isn’t just about moving forward through days on a calendar; it’s about intention. Each day is an opportunity for kavanah (intentionality), focusing on a specific spiritual attribute tied to the day, like kindness, discipline, or humility. Similarly, each toss in juggling requires focus and intention. The rhythm demands our full presence, just as each count in the Omer asks for mindful awareness.

Try this: as you juggle, pick a number and count aloud, dedicating each toss to a positive quality or intention you want to cultivate. This can transform a juggling session into a practice of gratitude, joy, or patience—qualities we can nurture through both counting practices.

2. Patience and Practice

Both the Omer and juggling involve patience and gradual progress. Each day of the Omer brings a small, deliberate step closer to spiritual wholeness, reminding us that growth is a journey. Juggling requires the same approach: we start with one ball, then two, and eventually add more as we refine our skills. Mastery is achieved through small, consistent steps over time, mirroring the Omer’s pathway to Shavuot.

Consider dedicating each juggling session to a day of the Omer. Just as each day of counting builds upon the previous, let each juggling session reflect your personal progress. With each added ball, remember the steady journey of growth.

3. Embracing the Challenge of Counting

The act of counting itself holds power. In juggling, we know that dropping a ball is a natural part of learning. Each drop teaches us humility, reminding us that perfection isn’t the goal—commitment and resilience are. Counting the Omer is similar. We may forget a day or miss the mark in embodying a particular attribute, yet we continue counting, knowing that our dedication to the process matters more than perfection.

When juggling, accept each toss as a momentary gift, a step in your journey. Embrace the challenge of counting and let each ball’s arc remind you that growth comes through continuous effort and self-compassion.

4. Counting as a Community Practice

Traditionally, the Omer count is done with a blessing, often in a communal setting, connecting us to a shared spiritual journey. Juggling, too, can be a community activity, connecting us with others through shared joy and laughter. Bring friends or family into your practice, or join other jugglers. Count together, whether it’s the Omer or the number of balls you can keep in the air.

By connecting these practices, we can turn a solitary counting practice into a communal experience, deepening both our spiritual and social connections.

As we count the Omer this year, let’s remember that every count is more than just a number. Each is an opportunity to pause, reflect, and connect with something greater—whether it’s our inner growth, our community, or the rhythmic flow of juggling. In both counting practices, we’re reminded that, like each ball we juggle, each moment is a gift, weightless yet precious in our hands. May each toss and each count bring us closer to a sense of balance, harmony, and spiritual connection.