I have fought the long defeat and brought other people on to fight the long defeat, and I'm not going to stop because we keep losing. Now I actually think sometimes we may win. I don't dislike victory. ... You know, people from our background-like you, like most PIH-ers, like me-we're used to being on a victory team, and actually what we're really trying to do in PIH is to make common cause with the losers. Those are two very different things. We want to be on the winning team, but at the risk of turning our backs on the losers, no, it's not worth it. So you fight the long defeat.
In the excerpt from Tracy Kidder's "Mountains Beyond Mountains," Dr. Paul Farmer reflects on the struggle of fighting against systemic issues in healthcare. He emphasizes the importance of solidarity with those who are often sidelined or deemed "losers" in society. Farmer acknowledges that while victories are welcome, the fight for justice and improvement continues, regardless of the constant setbacks. For him, the struggle is not about personal triumphs but about uplifting the marginalized.
Farmer's perspective reveals a deeper commitment to social justice, stating that aligning with the disenfranchised is crucial. He seeks to engage others in this long battle, understanding that true progress may be slow and fraught with challenges. His dedication to fighting alongside those who face great adversity underscores a genuine desire to create a more equitable world, showcasing that sometimes, the journey itself is as important as the outcome.