In halls of dreams where I once trod,

A door slammed shut, the path was barred.
Ambitions high, my heart was set,
But fate, it seemed, would not be met.

In shadows deep, I lost my way,
The night stretched long, so dim the day.
Yet in despair, a spark so slight,
Became the guide to lead me right.

I sought the wisdom of a guide,
My mentor’s words would not deride.
“What steps to take? What path to tread?”
I asked with hope, my spirit fed.

In service found, my purpose clear,
Dreams once far are now quite near.
When certifications built three in tow,
My nurse's path began to show.

With courage clad, I tried once more,
The gates once closed now opened doors.
Through trials shaped, failures unplanned,
There she is; and here I am:
Aatika K. Wright, NP, I stand.

Aatika K. Wright, MS, RN, CCRN, CSC-CMC, AGACNP-BC, is an acute care nurse practitioner for Sentara Health in Virginia Beach, Va.