Issues affecting CNAs' ability to do the job can affect resident care quality. The purpose of this study was to explore the meaning of CNAs' experiences in the nursing home. A naturalistic design using qualitative methods guided data collection and analysis. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Four themes emerged: Transitioning Between Two Worlds, Responding to the Call, Living the Job, and Transcending the Job. The challenge is to create strategies that identify CNAs'passion for the job, support their ability to balance daily tasks with relationships, and value their knowledge and contributions to the care team.