When Respect Feels Lost in the Profession I Chose

I always believed that education and degrees earn respect. Yet somehow, the very profession I chose—the one I admired so deeply—has made me feel as though I lose respect rather than gain it.

I grew up admiring my mother, a nurse who not only cared for patients but also became a professor, imparting knowledge to shape new nurses. To me, she was the embodiment of dignity, compassion, and purpose. Following in her footsteps felt natural, almost destined. But today, I find myself questioning that choice.

Because all I seem to receive in return is disrespect and chaos. Where is the honor in a profession that constantly preaches professional ethics yet rarely returns the same to those who uphold it? What ethics remain when every act, every decision, every sacrifice is met with criticism rather than understanding?

We are professionals too—yet more importantly, we are human. Aren’t we also worthy of respect? Of kindness? Of acknowledgment for the relentless service we give?

It saddens me to see the world in this state—a world that overlooks those who hold it together in its most fragile moments. Maybe one day, when there are no nurses left to answer the call, society will realize how foolish it was to undervalue them. But by then, will it be too late?

- Elaine Aby