In retrospect, I should have realized that ego is a sensitive subject for many. I simply wished to propose that fear is a hindrance to spirituality. Perhaps there are those that would that would argue that fear is an aid to spirituality. It certainly seems to be employed in that way by many religious fundamentalists. So I can understand arguments that emanate from that particular viewpoint. I was, of course, suggesting that a source of fear is from what I understand to be called the ego. Once again, anyone is free to dispute that notion........:)