‘Thresholds’ (courtesy Dr. Andy McLean)

I have written previously on the importance of rites and rituals to our well-being. This month, religious practitioners of varying faiths are experiencing Lent, Purim, Ramadan, Holi, Naw-Rúz and numerous other celebrations. To our Muslim colleagues, this weekend we wish you, “Eid Mubarak.” Today is also the Vernal Equinox, with many ancient, including Indigenous, rituals and festivities taking place.

Today also marks an important “rite, ritual and celebration” for UND SMHS. Our soon-to-be graduating fourth-year medical students are experiencing the exhilaration of “Match Day.” It is an exciting time of new possibilities, exemplifying all they have worked for. They are about to experience another “rite of passage,” to cross yet another threshold in medical residency. Whether we are aware of it or not, we cross thresholds every day (usually not as pronounced as that symbolized by the “Match.”) And while they’re not always physical, these thresholds can be emotional, spiritual, cognitive entries and exits that affect our mental health and well-being. Given that this column was actually penned on St. Patrick’s day, it is appropriate that I share with you the work of the Irish poet, philosopher, and former priest, John O’Donohue. I’m particularly fond of O’Donohue’s book To Bless the Space Between Us, which is excerpted online by life coach Sara Smeaton and speaks to the issue of threshold-crossing. As we celebrate our students and share in the pride of their accomplishments, I would encourage you to take a few minutes to read and reflect on the meaning of the thresholds in your own lives.

Reminder, if you would like to share inspirational quotes, stories, or ideas which might be helpful to others, please feel free to email our colleague Dr. Melissa Naslund at melissa.naslund@UND.edu.