The definition of profession is "a calling that requires specialized knowledge and often long and intense academic preparation" (Webster Dictionary, 2008). By definition, I would consider nursing a profession, without a doubt. Nurses have spent too much time and effort in academic settings not to use the word profession. Nurses are educated and academically prepared by leaders in the nursing field who possess the specialized knowledge that will specifically train nurses to meet the challenges of the profession. Nursing theorists, who are experts in nursing, have contributed a great deal of work in promoting nursing as a profession. According to Alligood and Tomey, “Nursing theory has been a prevalent theme in nursing literature for the past 35 years and has spurred phenomenal growth in the nursing profession” (Alligood & Tomey, 2006, p.3). I see the nursing profession as something special, something different from a simple job. I think most nurses feel that they have been "called" to the profession in some way. The future of nursing is in the hands of nurses themselves. By encouraging higher education and continuing education, the nursing profession will continue to evolve and gain power. By learning to speak out and publicize the plight of nursing today, nurses can help the public understand why the healthcare system needs to change and how changes can be made or, if done carelessly, help create an image negative in the eyes of the public. . I think nurses have the power to change the healthcare system in our country, but we must first organize and work together. The American public has historically viewed nursing as an admired, respected, and trustworthy profession. According to the Gal...... middle of the paper......B. & Gordon, S. (2000). From silence to voice. Ottawa, Ontario, Canadian Nurse's Association.Gallup.com. (2007). Honesty and Ethics Survey-2007. Retrieved April 21, 2008, from http://gallup.com.Robison, J. (2006). Labor dispute: nurses authorize strike. Las Vegas Review Journal. November 23, 2006. Retrieved April 21, 2008, from http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Nov-23-Thu-2006/business/11008259.htmlWebster's Dictionary. (2008). Definition of profession. Retrieved April 21, 2008, from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/professionWells, A. (2007). The mentally ill still have no cure. Las Vegas Review Journal. August 28, 2007. Retrieved April 21, 2008, from http://mentalhopenews.blogspot.com/2007/08/mentally-ill-still-lack-care-las-vegas.html.