Fear’s Folly - A Lesson I Learned From Phoebe Fair

Phoebe Fair was a tiny girl whose brief life made an enormous and powerful impact. She taught me a priceless lesson:

Faith conquers fear.

Phoebe inspired me to courage and caused me to realize that we can often misjudge based on size. This small child faced a giant foe and demonstrated strength.

 

At 2 years old, Phoebe was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive brain cancer. In spite of this those who loved this precious child remained hopeful. Phoebe herself was a shining example of joy and determination.

 

Her parents did not waste time on silly things that did not matter. This fine couple served as missionaries. They were also engaged in a fierce fight for their daughter’s life. As her sweet life slipped away grief could not be easily assuaged. They needed something extraordinary. They received their “A-typical Miracle” (which is the title of the blog about Phoebe’s life http://atypicalmiracle.com/) in the comfort of knowing she touched many in her short, well-lived life. The Facebook page dedicated to Phoebe received almost 98,000 likes and the blog had approximately 1800 followers.

So now to the lesson I learned. If she could, at such a tender age, face cancer and not cower, I too should be able to be strong.

 The night before I was due to undergo a medical procedure myself, I couldn’t sleep due to anxiety.  I decided to peruse Facebook.  I found this post from Phoebe’s mom recounting a conversation which took place only weeks before Phoebe went to heaven. Amazing words of wisdom from a little girl who was barely four years old.

 

“Phoebe: "God loves us. God loves us and God is not a meanie."
Me: "That's right Phoebe, God loves us very much."
Phoebe: "And I am not afraid, say it Mom, say "I am not afraid."
Me, teary-eyed: "I am not afraid."

Not only did these words grab my attention, they gave me a resolve to be brave.