Guest Contributor: Rachell Nguyen
Doctor of Philosophy Student at Texas Woman’s University

Alone and in despair
Lost in a world without sight
Crouched in melancholic posture
Darkness slowly overtakes light.
The soul’s luster starts to dim
When, suddenly, flames appear
From a distance, they come closer
Fear not, as help is finally near!
As the flames grow closer together,
They unite with the lost soul as one.
What once were separated flames
Now illuminates as a single sun.
Thus, unity becomes our power
Stronger, they’ll hear our cry
The chains of resistance shall fall
Big Brother-we will defy.
Alone we cannot move mountains
But together we have the upper hand
So stand with me in full force
For united we shall stand!

Initially, I was going to submit another poem. However, given recent events that imperil our profession’s already delicate public image, I thought this poem was more appropriate. Individually, it is difficult to make changes. But with others, even moving mountains is possible. I beseech you, take a stand with your fellow nurses. Let our unified strength further strengthen the solid foundation of our discipline. I always tell others, “Team work makes the dream work!”

See additional poetry by Rachell in Aesthetic Knowing

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 on 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.