Fear wears many faces and is mostly born out of psychological imbalances; it is therefore unhelpful and neurotic where its expression is, for example, self-debasing timidity. However, with the light of intelligence, fear becomes caution and is a reasonable strategy for the maintenance of self-interest.

Sometimes it takes courage to refuse to engage in certain activities, and this is appropriate when the risk exceeds the potential gain. A few nuts, however important, are insufficient incentive for the squirrel to expose itself to the hunter’s gun.

Such an uncompromising loyalty to self-interest focuses enduring values into a communal system that binds us together with others who share these values. Our hopes and fears are equally significant in creating our tribe mentality, the early expression of civilization.

As with any species, humanity is tested as to whether it can collectively demonstrate sufficient survival skills. Good judgement is such a skill, and our survival is contingent upon it; we need to do the right thing as a group.

Humanity’s gift is that of free will, so therefore its test is whether, by the application of good judgement, it is thought wise to do this or to do that. Our actions follow conscious decision rather than instinctual reactions.

Feedback – as to whether our judgement has been sound as a long term policy –  ultimately takes the form of survival and abundance, or the threat of extinction.

From this rather stark process is evolved the only true independence of spirit, which will enable us to know what Spirit is. This is God consciousness, and is the final mystery that can show us not only how to survive but why.