Thoughts to Build On

Chapter 22

The Epidemic Of Hate

It is an inspiration to see a community-and

sometimes an entire nation-unite to ward off or to alleviate

an epidemic disease. The mobilization of all necessary

resources is effected with urgency and total disregard of

cost. There is an all-pervading selfless sacrifice.

Recently, in Britain, because of an epidemic

of hoof-and-mouth disease, 450,000 fine cattle were de-

stroyed by their owners. Entire herds representing almost

the total assets of thousands of cattlemen were slaughtered

and destroyed at a total loss.

Everywhere, throughout the ""World, epidemics

ranging from malaria or typhoid to measles or mumps are

put down with organized urgency. Cost is no considera-

tion. Sacrifices are routine and universal. Massive assistance

pours in from surrounding, and even distant, communities.

If the epidemic is of sufficient magnitude, other nations,

. including so-called unfriendly ones, send aid.