Remember when you felt inspired, and resolved to improve your life?
Did you fulfill your resolution?
A study claims that only 12% of resolutions come to fruition. I believe it.
We sincerely want to do more for ourselves, our families and the world.
Then life happens.
Our internal commitments don't seem to have enough 'oomph' to make it from our minds/hearts into real life. And even when they do, they often collapse in face of the inevitable obstacles.
Enter the fourth step in our Omer journey, the psychological/spiritual soul-dynamic called 'Netzach'.
Linguistically, Netzach means 'victory'. But in life (and in the cosmos) we can describe 'Netzach' as: A continuum which begins deep within our soul/psyche as firm conviction toward a goal, which ultimately manifests itself as perseverance in fulfilling that objective.
A simple scenario: In a reflective moment (prayer?), I resolve to spend more time connecting with my faith and values.
Step 1: I need to look at the resolution's source: Me.
Do I trust myself? Do I have faith in my own judgment? If I have an opinion, am I willing to stick with it? Do I believe that I have the guts to deliver on my decisions?
In order for this resolution to have any substance, I first need to find secure faith in myself - The Resolver.
Step 2: I need to deeply consider the idea's merits. How will it impact other areas of my life etc.? If I really believe it's a good objective, then I need to commit myself to the goal with internal strength and conviction.
Step 3: I recognize that this idea needs to progress beyond my thoughts and into my practical life; it needs 'legs' to make it into my future.
Right now, I'm in the midst of an introspective epiphany. Tomorrow, I'll be busy with life's relay-race, and it will be difficult to re-discover the inspiration and strength.
Yet, tomorrow - even when I'm not inspired - I can find the perseverance to act; because I have genuine conviction today.
That's Netzach - a personal victory; because life is a string of opportunities for personal victory.
Good luck!