James J. O'Connell > Quotes

“Nothing changes in the life of a homeless person unless you slow down and take the time to earn trust and develop a lasting relationship. Consistency and presence are essential. Have a coffee, play cards, share bits of yourself. Never judge. Remember that people have lived through hell and listen carefully to their stories.”
― James J. O'Connell, Stories from the Shadows: Reflections of a Street Doctor

“These are the lives I've stumbled upon. Not orderly or reasoned, and not the way lives are supposed to be. Many would challenge the patience of Job and make us wonder whether any loving God would allow such serendipity.”
― James J. O'Connell, Stories from the Shadows: Reflections of a Street Doctor

“Health care for the disenfranchised is predicated upon a one-to-one relationship made possible only by the investment of time and by a willingness to venture beyond offices and exam rooms to unfamiliar turf.”
― James J. O'Connell, Stories from the Shadows: Reflections of a Street Doctor

“[T]he presence of death becomes a gentle and almost soothing reminder of our ultimate equality and destiny.”
― James J. O'Connell, Stories from the Shadows: Reflections of a Street Doctor