One can learn a lesson in his spiritual service from the calendar. Although the calendar is fixed and unchanging, a Jew has the ability to affect time itself and elevate it. One elevates time by using it to improve his spiritual life. In doing so, he sees more meaning and importance in the daily calendar. It is no longer just a list of days and weeks — it takes on a new significance in one’s life. We know this from the Hebrew term used to describe the Counting of the Omer: U’sefartem, “and you shall count,” which also means “you shall cause to shine.” The days become full and shine in perfect elevation.

Hiskashrus #896