The Enigma of Fear

Fear can be a force of much enigma. Rooted in our ancient roots, back when we had to live among beasts and fight for our survival. Fear, though most seen as an enemy may indeed be a force for good. In situations of great fear, primordial instinct takes over and almost superhuman powers take hold. For most though, overcoming fear can build courage and confidence. It gives one a great sense of accomplishment and self-worth. Without fear, there would be no courage, for everyone has nothing to use that courage for. Yet, it is not unknown that fear can be a dangerous force. For those who lack courage, it can hold them back, control them like a machine, freezing them in utter terror. When faced with fear, often there are two primal responses that are triggered, fight, or flight. Yet, there are indeed a far many more responses. Some freeze, some beg, some hide, and others make a great many number of decisions. Fear, however goes beyond just phyiscal fears, sometimes fears that will be almost never confronted face to face. Many fears are physchological. Arguably the root of every fear is the fear of death, placed deep within the self-preservation instincts of our ancient ancestors. Other fears are the fear of the unknown, another thing rooted in our primordial past. The fear of the unknown is perhaps the reason so many people choose to avoid strange places, people, things. Fear is a great obstacle, yet without fear, our species would not be at the point it is today. If those courageous few who did not take the step into the fearful unknown gave into fear, then perhaps our species would not be as advanced. Remember that fear is an obstacle, yes, but overcoming that obstacle is what truly can create greatness.