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Published Online: 7 June 2023

Still Waters and Restored Souls

Justin C. Cordova, M.D.Authors Info & Affiliations
Publication: American Journal of Psychiatry Residents' Journal
Volume 18, Number 4
https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp-rj.2023.180407
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Ochre plastic coffee mugs and
black canvas shoes,
white cotton jumpsuits and
green puffy jackets,
concrete floors painted
bright purple.
From each perspective, one clearly sees
that these colors, a kaleidoscope
united by dissonance and utilitarianism,
are simple refractions of the light surrounding them,
reflections of life emanating from the bright humanity
shining deep inside of each inmate in the group.
Individually they come forward, at first slowly,
haltingly overcoming their trepidation,
timidly embracing vulnerability,
gradually acquiescing to the comfort of community.
They voluntarily contribute their voices,
continually surrendering themselves
to the judgment of others, persisting in an effort
to quiet their overwhelmingly intractable demons.
They are lost and hurting. They silently hope
that the still waters and restored souls
that have been promised to them
will somehow remain within their reach.

Footnote

The views expressed are solely those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the U.S. Army, Navy, or Air Force, the U.S. Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.

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Go to American Journal of Psychiatry Residents' Journal
American Journal of Psychiatry Residents' Journal
Volume 18 • Number 4 • June 7, 2023
Pages: 18

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Published online: 7 June 2023
Published in print: June 7, 2023

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Justin C. Cordova, M.D.
Dr. Cordova is a second-year resident in the Department of Anesthesiology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Md. Dr. Cordova is also a captain in the Medical Corps of the U.S. Army.
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