Q&A: Swine Flu Myths (Buddhist view)

False-color image of influenza virus, or virion, taken with transmission electron micrography. The flu's protein-laced fatty coat (orange) toughens up in cold weather, helping it survive (Credit: CDC/Cynthia Goldsmith).

Pain (dukkha) is characteristic of the human experience (as on all 31 Planes of Existence). The "suffering" that accompanies it, however, is optional. There is unpleasant sensation to be sure.

But our reaction to it -- taking it personally (anatta), seeing it as persisting (anicca) -- our mistakes we make now. Karma is not what comes from the past. (That's vipaka and phala, result and fruit). Karma is action -- our deeds, our choices, our volitions -- in the present responding to what comes our way.

• Flu Special Report: The Basics (LiveScience.com)

The Swine Flu epidemic is the latest reminder of these truths. What are the myths and mysteries associated with it? Should it be blamed on human abuse and slaughter of pigs. More>>

Related (AP)
US responding as if swine flu will be pandemic
WHO raises its pandemic alert level on swine flu
CDC: Practical precautions can help avoid flu
What you need to know about swine flu
WHO ups pandemic alert as Mexico flu deaths climb

The Unthinkable Elements

• Are chemtrails involved in this sudden epidemic? (Search)
• Are vaccine makers complicit in outbreak? (1976)
• Does the pandemic scare serve a different agenda? (Media)

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