Okay, I’ve just finished the Seven Deadlies in my Seeds emails, and a friend wrote to me that she was astonished that all the “sins” are rooted in fear. They are.

In fact, all resistance of every kind is rooted in fear. Fear could be called humanity’s nemesis.

At the same time, fear is also a great beneficence to humankind. About to walk down a dark alley at night, instinctual fear will tell you whether to go ahead or turn back.

We need fear.

Ain’t that a pip? Actually, fear is part of the human GPS system. It’s our Big Yes and our Big No.

Fear is what tells us to get out of Dodge when facing a saber toothed tiger.

I’ve done a lot of thinking about fear lately though and some ideas have come to me about knowing fear, and facing fear, and even, loving fear. Consider these:

First, it behooves us to know when we’re afraid.

Knowing when we’re afraid lets us identify what’s going on as quickly as we can. Are we afraid because there’s a life-or-death threat? That’s a good fear—especially when it’s death.

But what if it’s life instead? I’m beginning to think we’ve programmed ourselves to be afraid of all change. Going off to Europe alone for the first time? Sure you’re afraid, but it’s a different kind of fear than angry tiger fear. There’s an effervescence to the fear. It’s fear, sure, but fear mixed with excitement. Learn to identify your personal reactions to fear. It will be invaluable the next time you’re afraid.

Second, it’s always good to face our fears.

I really believe this. Facing fear sets you free most of the time. Sometimes, people stay afraid, but mostly, facing fear means the fear diminishes if not disappears. One of the methods I use when I’m afraid is to turn around literally. Stand up. Feel your fear. Then turn your body around. Surprisingly, this is an easy fix.

Fear is just resistance. Face it. Emerson was right: what we resist persists. Don’t resist fear. Turn around. Face it. If you need help with this, get help. A friend, a counselor, sometimes all that’s needed is a witness to the process.

Third, learn to love your fears. For many years now, I’ve called them Fearbunnies—like dustbunnies only different. Fearbunnies just need gathering up and tossing away. Loving yourself in fear, or in faith, is no different. Loving yourself is a good idea.

Dear one, be grateful for fear, face it, love it. You’ll be glad you did.

For spiritual nourishment, visit Dr. Susan Corso’s website and blog, Seeds for Sanctuary. Follow her on Twitter @PeaceCorso and Friend her on Facebook. And discover your own Inner Peace at, To Me Peace Is … What is Peace to You?