Fear of the unknown is a natural part of being human, but for those on a spiritual journey, it can be a powerful teacher. I want to share three stories that highlight the importance of confronting our fears with courage and faith. One story from Yogananda’s Autobiography of a Yogi features Sri Yukteswar, who, after being frightened by a ghost story from his mother, bravely entered the dark chamber only to find there was nothing to fear. This teaches us that when we face our fears, they often lose their grip on us. Additionally, Swami Kriyananda emphasizes that true courage comes from recognizing God's presence within us, which helps us understand that our fears are opportunities for growth. Embracing this perspective allows us to see fear as a stepping stone rather than an obstacle.