Contributor – Rachell Nguyen
Aesthetic Knowing

Broken into many scattered pieces,
The nurse lies shattered and broken.
Light temporarily dims, sound decreases,
Similar to death, unspoken.

Yet, behold, the glass can be mended full,
Tougher and more durable than ever,
The nurse stands up from torment’s pull,
Wiser, stronger, even more clever.

The glass still has its beauty and brightness,
Even through pain, it never dies.
The glow of resilience bears lightness,
Forged through fire, the soul will rise.

Go forth! Stand up! Lead where wounded hearts pass,
Continue to guide with the beauty of a broken glass.

As I welcomed 2026, I pondered the moments, both high and low, that shaped me as a nurse, mentor, leader… and as a person. Earlier in my career, I resented the days I went through trials and felt “broken.” However, over the years, I realized I had become more durable and wiser, learning from my mistakes. Like shattered glass reforged with a stronger binding substance, the pieces are held together more tightly—renewed with greater strength to withstand future tribulations. Like broken glass, nurses grow stronger after being reforged through fire, prepared to lead others in 2026!

About Rachell Nguyen

I am a nursing professional development specialist and a board-certified family nurse practitioner with 20 years of clinical experience in various healthcare settings, including academic medical centers, community clinics, and specialty practices. My professional focus is on evidence-based practice (EBP), research, nursing practice, nurse empowerment and advocacy, and the management of chronic diseases, particularly diabetes, in underserved populations. I teach and facilitate system-wide nursing programs in EBP, research, and practice. My academic background includes a Doctor of Nursing Practice and ongoing Doctor of Philosophy studies in nursing. I am dedicated to advancing nursing practice through clinical inquiry, mentorship, empowerment, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

When I first came to this country, my English was not perfect, so I practiced it through writing. I wrote whenever I had the opportunity and gradually fell in love with the craft! Writing became my best outlet for expression and reflection. I am happy to uplift our profession through words and inspire other nurses to shine their light.