Tag Archives: nursing

poetry

A True Heartbeat

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There comes a time when you meet someone who’s soul connects with yours. You aren’t afraid to express yourself and they welcome you with arms open wide. It’s rare and it’s special. May you all find someone who makes you feel safe to be your true self and isn’t afraid to share theirs.

Photo by Hassan OUAJBIR on Pexels.com

A True Heartbeat
Seasons always change, winter through fall
Details often blurred, when we want to recall.
By chance meetings, but not every meeting by chance
Relationships often fleeting, while others designed to enhance.
I knew the moment we met; you were someone I could embrace
And when hardships arise, you have always shown grace.
Your caring spirit and nurturing nature are always bestowed
You offer a hug and a smile, which lightens every load.
The dedication to your career extends beyond what’s required
The amount of compassion and empathy you show is admired.
Your presence brings joy and tranquility to a chaotic day
The pressure and stress for a moment seem far away.
You hold on tight and don’t want to let go
You’re courageous and bold, yet let your emotions show.
You lead with your heart, show patience, and are kind
Yet do what is necessary, and always speak your mind.
There is something so special about the heart that you carry
For it takes a great amount of determination to be our emissary.
You are more than just our center, you’re the unit’s heartbeat
And I will forever be grateful that by chance we did meet.
I never could have imagined what the future had in store
Or how much I would look forward to leaving notes on your door.
Thank you for accepting all the love I bestow
I am truly thankful, that you I’ve come to know.

Jennifer R. W. Vargas

May 2025

For Steph, being authentic and vulnerable takes courage. Thank you for not being afraid to show your true self.

poetry

“Nursing School”

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By Jennifer Vargas | January 16, 2021 2:00 p.m. MSJC nursing students. Photo by Jennifer Vargas Nursing School You got into nursing school, so what …

“Nursing School”

Nursing School

You got into nursing school, so what can you expect?
Passing the TEAS was just one tiny aspect.
Delete your streaming services, there’s no time for Disney plus
Hope you like all-nighters; soon you’ll be just as tired as us.
Studying for exams, forget what you’ve done in the past
You must choose the “best answer” out of all the right ones asked.
When in doubt, handwashing and prioritize by ABCs
Memorizing won’t help, you have to critical think with these.
You’ll learn that nursing school isn’t always black and white
And clinicals will allow first-hand experience with fight or flight.
Soon you’ll learn how to take vitals, what’s considered the norm
The importance of being on time and dressing in full uniform.
At first you may be uneasy, you’ll learn to take it slow
Soon the skill will be mastered and your confidence will grow.
At times you might feel overwhelmed, reach out when in need
There are so many resources available to help you to succeed.
You might be the first nurse in your family, or be fulfilling a dream
Remind yourself why you’re here when the program feels extreme.
Don’t be alarmed if you cry, we’ve all been down that road,
When you get to the end, your hard work will have showed.
Be proud of the journey you’ve started, your hard work got you in
You can make it through this program and earn that nursing pin.
Never give up on yourself, you’re stronger than you know
And remember nurses run on coffee and an extra shot of espresso!

~ Jennifer R. W. Vargas

poetry

The Essence of a Nurse

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It’s often rare to meeting someone so far into the career that they haven’t become cynical or lost that spark that lead them to become a nurse. Nursing leadership can be difficult and it takes a special person to still have a heart of empathy and compassion after so many years of service.

The Essence of a Nurse
The season was fall and the journey was new
Surroundings intimidating, but then there was you.
Your smile offered warmth, amidst the cold
Your personality soft, yet not afraid to be bold.
You know how to lead, but to also be kind
A trait in everyone, we don’t always find.
A nurse provides no judgment with their care
Treats everyone equal, just, and fair.
Times arise when there’s a difficult case
But a nurse doesn’t waiver, no matter what they face.
When problems arise and we need somewhere to turn
You offer an opportunity for growth and to learn.
A safe place to unload whatever has us worried
To solve any problems without being hurried.
The mind is at ease when there’s someone we can confide
Who cares for each worker and fights on their side.
A place of authority can often push others away
Yet instead of alienation, you’re the sun in each day.
Your door is always open and so is your heart
Never lose that spark that sets you a part.
You’re kind and compassionate, loving and true
We’re thankful to have a nurse as wonderful as you!

~ Jennifer R. W. Vargas

November 2016

For Brenda. This poem was inspired by a wonderful nurse in my life. I hope you find other nurses who fit the mold.