Failure Quote by Johann Hari
““To the prohibitionists, Hannah is a failure, because she continued using drugs. To the Portland, she was a success, because she knew she was loved. One day, a very senior government minister came to visit the safe injection rooms, and to meet the addicts. He asked Liz: “What percentage of people who use this place would you consider to be write-offs?” She paused and looked at him, trying to figure out how to tell him that the answer is none.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Chasing the Scream by Johann Hari, 2015
Success isn’t measured by external judgments; even those labeled “failures” can thrive when loved and supported, showing the power of compassion over stigma.
In simple terms: Love and support outweigh judgment.
Key Takeaway
Offer compassion, avoid labeling.
Themes
compassion
stigma
humanity
Mood
empathetic
hopeful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- health policy meetings
- community outreach
- personal counseling
- peer support groups
Key Concepts
social support
public health
addiction recovery
Questions to Reflect On
- What would happen if we treated all addicts as worthy of care?
- How can you show love to someone labeled a failure?
A Different Perspective
Stigma can persist despite evidence, making policy change slow.
