The last reading from the book of Genesis is named Vayechi (ויחי), which means “and he lived.” The title comes from the first verse of the reading, which says, “Jacob lived in the land of Egypt seventeen years” (Genesis 47:28). In this Torah portion, Jacob prepares for his death by securing a double portion of inheritance for Joseph and then blessing each of his sons with prophetic blessings. The book of Genesis ends with the death of Jacob, followed shortly by the death of Joseph and a promise of redemption from Egypt.

Phase Zero ends Saturday at sunset and we enter the second book of The Torah.

What happens with a seed before it bursts forth? It swells. The seed is planted and moisture (water) surrounds it and permeates it and it begins to swell until the primary root emerges.

The last 9 months we have been coming together several times per week to practice yoga, meditation and other spiritual/metaphysical “maps” of the territory. Hopefully, you have experienced increased awareness through your participation. Complementing the awareness we strive to inject more equanimity. The “middle path” is attained when awareness and equanimity are in balance. Progression and growth occur when awareness and equanimity increase simultaneously.

Joseph represents the foundation in the Tree of Life; Yesod. We are ready to burst forth. The first three weeks may be a bit rocky but after the 21st of January we will be strongly in growth mode.

I look forward to The New Year and to transitioning from Phase Zero to Phase 1.