The importance and necessity of fear

As I read Poe and other stories from the "thriller" genre, I came to a self-realization kind of thing: that being afraid isn't a bad thing at all. And really, we should look forward to fear.

Don't call me crazy yet. Somehow my rational mind found a way to rationalize the irrational concept of fear. What is really frightening about fear? It's the fact that we don't know what's going to happen; and it's also deeper than that......it's seeing what is coming, and knowing you have no power at all to stop it or control it at all.

This sounds horrible I know. But I actually see it as something good. We should view fear as a tool, not as an obstacle. You see, fear when utilized properly can compel us to our greatest triumphs. The hottest fires produce the purest ores, the darkest rooms showcase the brightest light. Fear is an opportunity; a chance to propel oneself to do great deeds. To accomplish things we couldn't under normal circumstances. The threat of losing your very life if you cannot accomplish a goal. The possibility of losing your loved ones. Nothing can spur a person on to great deeds more. Had the man in Pendulem and the Pit had tried so dilligently to escape if there wasn't something threatening his life? Most likely not. Without fear where would we be? How many soldiers on the battle field were able to act valiantly because of what defeat would bring? The fear of losing all they love? Fear when weilded correctly is just as important as ambition, because with every fear comes an opportunity to tame that fear and use it to your advantage. Fear is important and we need it. Perhaps Poe agreed?