Local hero Omer Balva loses life in battle against Hezbollah terror.
The Counting of the Omer: A Journey of Growth and Reflection
In the 49 days following Passover and leading up to Shavuot, the Jewish people embark on a profound tradition known as the counting of the Omer. This sacred practice invites us to delve deep within ourselves and cultivate the seven emotional attributes that shape the human experience, as taught by Jewish wisdom.
The Seven Emotional Attributes:
- Chesed: Loving-kindness
- Gevurah: Justice and discipline
- Tiferet: Compassion
- Netzach: Endurance
- Hod: Humility
- Yesod: Bonding
- Malchut: Sovereignty, leadership
One individual who embodied these remarkable traits was my high school classmate, Omer Balva. We shared our formative years at Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School (JDS) in Rockville, Maryland, and graduated together in 2019.
Tragically, Omer, 23, was taken from us in an attack by Hezbollah terrorists. While visiting his hometown of Rockville, Maryland, his infantry unit was called up for duty. Despite the pleas of his loved ones, Omer’s unwavering determination led him back to Israel. His commitment and endurance were truly remarkable.
Omer grew up in the Washington, D.C., area but chose to move to Israel with his family and enlist in the army after high school. Before embarking on this journey, he wrote a heartfelt letter to his best friend, Ethan Missner, expressing his dreams for the future and their unbreakable bond.
At the time of his passing, Omer had just purchased a diamond ring for his girlfriend of four years, Odelia. In a touching Instagram post dedicated to her birthday, he professed his love and excitement for a future together.
Omer’s infectious smile, zest for life, and contagious laughter left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Since his untimely departure, countless members of our class have shared stories of his inclusivity, compassion, and genuine concern for others. Omer had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel seen and valued, even those who felt marginalized. He went above and beyond, delivering frozen yogurt to friends late at night and lending a listening ear. His compassion and loving-kindness were truly extraordinary.
While studying the Arab-Israeli conflict, many of our classmates expressed criticism towards Israel. However, Omer stood unwavering in his belief in the beauty of the Zionist dream, Jewish strength, and his family’s deep connection to the state of Israel. He firmly believed that Jews stood for peace and that the State of Israel represented justice. Omer once said, ”If I ever die, I want it to be for the State of Israel.” His commitment to justice was unwavering.
Omer’s humility shone through in various aspects of his life. He fearlessly joined the soccer team, served as a counselor for younger students on school retreats, and even took on the challenge of starring in the musical Mamma Mia! during his senior year. Despite being new to the world of musicals, he dedicated himself to practice and delivered a performance that captivated us all.
After graduation, Omer enlisted in the IDF and joined the Garin Tzabar lone soldiers integration program alongside our classmate, Lily Daroff. During a physically demanding team-based running test, Omer selflessly pushed Lily forward, ensuring she made it to the finish line. He had a remarkable ability to lift others up and forge deep connections.
Lily, who served in the spokesperson’s unit of the IDF, visited Omer multiple times to create video content for her unit. Regardless of the circumstances, Omer remained positive and exhibited true leadership. His soldiers respected and loved him dearly. He was a natural leader.
During our senior class trip to Israel, we gathered in Jerusalem to welcome Shabbat at the Western Wall. As we swayed arm in arm, singing the Adon Olam prayer, Omer expressed that this was when he felt the presence of God most strongly.
This past Friday, Omer bid farewell to his family with a heartfelt message: “I love you all. We are heading out. I will see you Sunday morning. Shabbat shalom.”
Omer leaves behind his sister Shachar, his brothers Barak and Itai, and his parents, Sigal and Eyal. Although I was not part of Omer’s inner circle, his endless kindness and natural leadership touched me deeply. I miss him immensely. Baruch Dayan Ha’emet.
How did Omer Balva demonstrate the importance of humility in his actions and deeds?
Mly believed in the importance of defending his homeland and protecting the Jewish people. Omer’s sense of justice and discipline guided his actions and choices throughout his life.
Humility was another characteristic that defined Omer. Despite his numerous accomplishments and admirable qualities, he never sought recognition or attention. Instead, he quietly went about his actions and deeds, always putting others before himself. His humility was a true testament to his character and the values he upheld.
Omer also understood the importance of bonding and building connections with others. He treasured his friendships and relationships, investing time and effort into nurturing them. Whether it was organizing gatherings or simply being there for a friend in need, Omer knew that true strength lies in our ability to support and uplift one another.
In his short life, Omer exemplified the qualities of leadership and sovereignty. He took charge of his own destiny and pursued his dreams fearlessly. Omer understood that true leadership comes from a place of authenticity, empathy, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the world.
As we embark on the journey of counting the Omer, Omer Balva serves as a shining example of the growth and reflection that this practice offers. His life has taught us the importance of cultivating these seven emotional attributes and integrating them into our own lives.
During this sacred time, let us commit to internalizing and embodying Chesed, Gevurah, Tiferet, Netzach, Hod, Yesod, and Malchut. May we strive to live with loving-kindness, justice, compassion, endurance, humility, bonding, and leadership.
Through the counting of the Omer, we are reminded of the potential for growth and transformation that lies within each of us. Let us honor Omer Balva’s memory by actively working towards becoming the best versions of ourselves, constantly seeking to improve and make a positive impact on the world around us.
This journey of growth and reflection, inspired by the counting of the Omer and the remarkable life of Omer Balva, has the power to truly shape and elevate our human experience. May we embrace this opportunity with open hearts and minds, and may Omer’s memory continue to inspire us all.
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