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Judaism nurtures our purpose in life to make this world a better place. Central to the work of repairing the world (tikkun olam) is the individual cultivation & repair of soul traits (tikkun middot). The practice of Mussar is the work of refining, tuning and fine tuning the quality of our character (middah).

Midah of the month of Nisan (March 26 – April 23 ) Seder – Order

The Hebrew word Seder literally means "Order." The word is widely known because of the Passover Seder, a fitting name for such a highly-structured ritual meal. Structure seems to be a key part of this midah. What is the necessity of structure? The Mussar master, Rabbi Simcha Zissel of Kelm, compared Seder to the clasp on a pearl necklace. “Picture a pearl necklace with a small clasp. Which is more essential - the clasp or the pearls? At first glance the pearls are more essential. But, without the clasp all the pearls would scatter and all that would be left is the chain - thus the clasp seems more essential. A person is like a collection of pearls - he is full of potential, talents, character traits and virtues. Seder is similar to the clasp on the necklace. Without Seder all his virtues and talents scatter and he is left empty.” --Rabbi David Jaffe, Tikkun Middot Project Curriculum

Focus Phrase: One who grabs a lot cannot hold on to it; one who grabs a little holds on to it.

Practice: Choose one thing that is out of order in your life and apply order to it. Notice what thoughts/feelings arise regarding your desires about this item.