All of them turned their backs on me at that time because they thought I was a troublemaker.
Fred KorematsuRead
I feel no disgust when I hear the confessions of those near their end, whose wounds are full of maggots...This may give you some idea of my daily work. Picture to yourself a collection of huts with 800 Lepers. No doctor; in fact, as there is no cure, there seems no place for a doctor's skill.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Father Damien demonstrates the courage and compassion required to face suffering and death head-on.
This quote reflects Father Damien's unwavering commitment to care for those at the end of their lives, particularly lepers who were shunned by society. His words convey a deep empathy for the suffering, revealing his willingness to confront disease and despair without revulsion, indicating that true compassion often requires overcoming our instinctive reactions to grotesque realities.
Themes
CourageCompassionSufferingLeprosyService
In practice
Example use cases
Use this quote in a speech about volunteering at hospitals or care facilities.
Similar quotes
Rights are won only by those who make their voices heard.
Harvey MilkRead
But fear no more! I would not take this thing, if it lay by the highway. Not were Minas Tirith falling in ruin and I alone could save her, so, using the weapon of the Dark Lord for her good and my glory. No, I do not wish for such triumphs, Frodo son of Drogo.
J. R. R. TolkienRead
When we look squarely at injustice and get involved, we actually feel less pain, not more, because we overcome the gnawing guilt and despair that festers under our numbness. We clean the wound - our own and others' - and it can finally heal.
Desmond TutuRead
Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy.
Bren BrownRead
The hero is brave in deeds as well as words.
AesopRead