The Buddha is My Dr. Fauci

Stephanie Swann
September 23, 2025

Recently, one of my students said something that touched me deeply: “The Buddha is my Dr. Fauci.” He shared how, during the pandemic, he leaned on Dr. Fauci’s wisdom and experience. He didn’t have the training to read the research himself, but he trusted someone who did.

As a new practitioner, he now finds himself relating to the Buddha in the same way. With saddhā—faith—he turns to the Satipatthāna Sutta for guidance. Following these instructions in meditation, he is beginning to notice a shift. His body is relaxing and his mind is growing quieter.

Saddhā is the soft opening of the heart when it leans toward the possibility of freedom.

It is not dogma, not clinging to doctrines, but a willingness to walk barefoot on a path not yet fully seen.

This student’s story is a reminder to us all. We begin with trust in the Dharma, and as we practice, we see its truth for ourselves. Especially in these uncertain times, it feels so important to have a place of refuge—a way to steady the heart in the midst of life’s storms.

May this teaching be of benefit.