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Bill's post

Jonnae's Celebration of Life

Celebration of Life Starring Jonnae Taylor

Dear Friends,

I just sat down in my hotel room in downtown Chicago and I'm looking out at the city lights, the river, and the Navy Pier. It's serene. Just after midnight.

Today has been extraordinary. Incredible actually. I started the day off in Austin, TX. I spoke there Friday night, sharing my vision for the Transformation. And I was scheduled to talk again today at 3:00. But when I woke up this morning, it was so clear that my heart wasn't there... it was with Denise and Jonnae. I meditated on it and clearly heard to follow my heart. I realized I could apologize to the people who would be there to listen to my presentation. I could reschedule another talk in Austin in the coming months and work hard to make it up to them. On the other hand, I could not reschedule seeing Jonnae's Life Celebration.

So I called up the flight crew, and within an hour we were up in the air and on our way to Louisville, Kentucky. From there we drove up to New Albany, Indiana, where the event was getting started right as we got there.

The theatre was packed. Hundreds and hundreds of the most beautiful people... all there to say thank you to Jonnae, and to celebrate her life.

Jonnae

I am not sure I ever felt a room filled with that much Light and that much Love. While hundreds and hundreds of us waited inside, we finally got word that the Star of the show's limo had pulled up out front. One person, then another, stood up out of their chairs and began to applaud in unison. Everyone joined in. It sounded and felt like the beat of ONE heart. As soon as we could see Jonnae enter the room, the applause grew louder and louder... it was a tribute like I have never seen before. It overwhelmed many, myself included, and the tears flowed, not out of sadness, but out of reverence, and honor, for a true Hero.

After a long and thundering standing ovation, Denise graciously thanked everyone for being there, and with Jonnae and the Taylor family in the front row, we watched a movie on the big screen: a beautiful tribute to Jonnae's Life. The adoring, standing-room-only audience smiled together, then laughed... and cried. It was so heart-warming and inspiring.

I had a moment to kneel done before Jonnae, look her in the eyes and gently say, 'Thank You.' Gracefully, taking her time... she smiled, tipped her head to the right a bit, and whispered, 'Ah Bill... thank you... ' and she leaned her head the other way, and with her eyes, she told me it's okay... and not to worry... and then she nodded her head, as if to say farewell. I smiled. I said 'Okay...' Stood up on my feet, took a deep breath, then went on the patio and just broke down in tears. It wasn't because I was sad. It was just being overwhelmed with the love in the room, and the dignity of this young woman who has taught me so much. I am still filled with immense gratitude.

The night was SO beautiful... and everyone wanted it to last forever. In the hearts of all who were there, it will.

I want to thank Denise for allowing me to share this experience with her. I will never forget it. You are so strong, so courageous, and so filled with love. I am proud of you. I also thank the whole Taylor family for being so kind to me.

Thank You also to Terry, our TTV Executive Producer, who worked day and night all week, literally, to produce the tribute to Jonnae. I am inspired by your talent, and even more so, by your kindness and compassion.

And most of all, Thank You Jonnae. Knowing you has been a blessing. You have strengthened my faith, further opened my heart, and humbled me with your courage and grace.

I once wrote that the hardest word any of us will ever say to someone we deeply care about is 'Goodbye.' I am feeling that more than ever right now; in fact, I just can't bring myself to say it. And so, instead, I say to Jonnae... 'Until we all meet again... you will be greatly missed.'

Good night everyone.

Bill

Crowd

Denise

Bill & Denise

Jonnae

 Crowd

June 2, 2008 | comments (68) | Notes from the Path

jjl99827 wrote 22 Days Ago

My love and thanks goes to Denise and Jonnae, what an example of strength even through tremendous adversity. I can’t express how moving their story is and how much it helps drive me. I thank God for bringing me to this site and letting me read this story and get to know Denise and Jonnae just a little, Denise is amazing and so helpful I cant say enough. Bill thanks for all of this and God bless you for all you do for everyone and for the Taylor family.

peter wrote 104 Days Ago

I can't tell you who deeply touched and moved I am by Denise and Jonnae's story.. They're the greatest examples of strength in the face of adversity.

MickyO wrote 155 Days Ago

I'm so glad you went Bill and then that you wrote this beautiful account of your time there. My heart was filled reading it, and I could so clearly picture the joy there, and of course the pain of parting...until you meet again. Jonnae and Denise's story inspired me the first time I saw it. They still shine so bright...always.

VickyL5 wrote 169 Days Ago

This is what gives us hope for the future.

chilikat wrote 171 Days Ago

Thank you for sharing and for being such a truly amazing person. I know so many of us were there in spirit. I pray for Denise and Jonnae every day. You lead by such amazing example. Thank you.

Grandma wrote 171 Days Ago

I am so glad that you were there! Thank you! Thank you, thank you! God bless you!

Samy wrote 172 Days Ago

Bill , they say those with mirror-like hearts do not depend on fragrance and color:they behold Beauty in the moment... Thanks for sharing it with us

Compassion wrote 172 Days Ago

Bill: Thank you for the nice update. This reminded me of your act of kindness-If we are concerned about the world in which we live and want to make a difference, we only need to be willing to face the humility and dignity of who we really are. Life will always present us with experiences, individually and globally, that continually move us toward facing the precious qualities that lie within each of us. It is only when we are willing to find the balance between humitlity and dignity that we begin to understand and truly enjoy what this journey of life and death has to offer.

Compassion wrote 172 Days Ago

Kennie wrote 172 Days Ago

WOW!!! You are such an inspiration. It's great to know that you know that Jonnae will be with her Heavenly Father when she leaves here. kennie

Coloradokid wrote 172 Days Ago

Such strength and such will power. ALL MY LOVE! Cas

Leiana wrote 172 Days Ago

Way to go Bill! Now that's getting your priorities right! May God richly bless you in everything you are trying to accomplish. We WILL succeed...one person at a time, right? ~Leiana~

gotpeppernosalt wrote 173 Days Ago

Thank you Bill for sharing that with us. She is an awesome young lady and you are right goodbye is not what i would of wanted to say either. I broke down and cried after reading this post. God Bless! ~Holly

JanM wrote 173 Days Ago

Bill--Huge thanks to you and your crew for being there on behalf of the Transformation community. You have made a beautiful connection with Jonnae that has blessed us all, and I know your participation was some much needed fuel for Denise.

Plantman0819 wrote 173 Days Ago

Wow.....I am speechless.....Thanks for sharing Bill. God bless Jerome

sunshine143 wrote 173 Days Ago

Amazing! You just gave me chills. I am so grateful that you shared this experience with us. It is so miraculous how God sends angels in the flesh. Jonnae is truly an angel, who has touched my life in a tremendous way. Bill, you have an amazing heart. God be with you always. ~Kimberly

Racewalker wrote 173 Days Ago

Thanks so much for going and sharing in such a blessed event. Denise/Racewalker

jHill wrote 173 Days Ago

i wish i could have been there. this is a great example of how people can transform their lives, and the lives of others they love. i have seen and felt God moving in this story and in the lives of all those involved. thanks Bill for making it so we could all be involved through this site, thank to all that worked so hard to make this a great experience for denise and jonnae and the rest of the taylor family. love and blessing to you all. jeremy

iitb_archie wrote 173 Days Ago

all i can say is thanks for walking the talk

Graham_Hunt wrote 173 Days Ago

Bill thank you for sharing this with us! What an amazing event for one amazing family! Jonnae and her wonderful famiily will be in both mine and my families prayers! Stay strong, stay faithful, and know that there are many that have you in their thoughts! Graham

sadiedoodle wrote 173 Days Ago

Thanks for sharing with those of us that could not be there. Jonnae is one special little angel. Julia

WahooMike wrote 173 Days Ago

What a beautiful even for such a beautiful young woman.

Jerianne wrote 173 Days Ago

All I can say is: awesome. . .

GETHERDONELINDA wrote 173 Days Ago

This event was amazing, Bill I am so happy to know that you followed your heart and went to be with Jonnae. You gave so much joy to an amazing little angel and a wonderful Family. I wish there were more people like you. This is what love and the Law of Reciprocation is all about. Thank You and God Bless You..... Linda

Soccermomx2 wrote 173 Days Ago

Bill, I am truly amazed at how giving you are and how you continue to give. You have given so much to so many people and continue to do so. I know the people in TX may have been disappointed at first; however, I'm sure when they realized where you were headed, they disappointment turned to joy. I know that Denise and Jonnae appreciate everything you've done for them. What a true blessing it is for you, Jonnae, and Denise, and the rest of the Taylor family.

SaraTera wrote 173 Days Ago

I was supposed to hear you speak in Austin on Sunday afternoon. When I arrived at the venue and called my BFL friends to meet up, they told me you had gone to Indiana. It about made me cry for joy - I am so glad and so proud of you for doing it. I gladly forfeit my opportunity to hear you speak so that you could be there. What an irreplacable gift to Jonnae and Denise and the Taylor family. Thank you for telling us the story of the day here. Peace, Sara

CarrieB wrote 173 Days Ago

I broke down in tears reading that. Thank you for sharing

alvindsv wrote 173 Days Ago

WOW! Bill thank you so much for sharing your insight into the life of this beautiful young lady. Your actions on this day have forever earned my respect for you as a loving and caring human being. Thank you for all you do. Brian Morton

soaringfaith wrote 173 Days Ago

How Awesome! It looks like it was a blast. I would of loved to have been there. The support you all showed this angel is overwhelming be sure to check out www.SoaringfaithDesigns.com/Jonnae.htm to see all the balloons from around the world displayed. Steve

Marce wrote 173 Days Ago

Bill, I too am at a loss for words. Thank you for sharing yours. I would love to see the video tribute as I was unable to attend on Sunday. What a remarkable young lady. I wish them peace. Marce

chrisharo wrote 173 Days Ago

Bill - all I can say is with all humbleness, thank you for sharing. What an amazing story and example of life, the amazing blessing of a beautiful human being, and how to live our lives to the fullest, even in the hardest of circumstances. Thank you Bill for being real and going where your heart leads you. May God bless you through this time, and especially the Taylor family. May all of us taking transformations take this lesson in life as a true lesson from God.

CinAz wrote 173 Days Ago

Thank you so much for sharing! I wish I could have physically been there. My mind, heart and prayers were though.

yogajen wrote 173 Days Ago

Bill, Thank you so much for posting this. I wasn't able to travel that far, and I so wanted to be there for the Taylor Family. Jonnae will forever be in my heart as will her entire family. Jen

Wyattsmom wrote 173 Days Ago

I now have even MORE respect for you Mr. Phillips. What you did was truly wonderful. Jonnae deserves the best in her final days, and we did our best to give it to her...my family was honoured to be a part f it even from miles away. We actually "felt" the love as each balloon lifted to the heavens. Incredible....

Hollywood wrote 173 Days Ago

Thank you Bill.

BoneZapr wrote 173 Days Ago

Bill, Thank you so very much for sharing this with us. What a moving tribute to such a beautiful little angel. I wasn't able to attend the event due to work but I did have my DD & GD send balloons up in Jonnaes honor. What a beautiful turnout. Thanks Again, Conni

SweetEmotion wrote 173 Days Ago

I am sorry I was not there. What a beautiful weekend for Jonnae and her family and friends. I pray for Jonnae every day. This truly was a beautiful weekend. I woke up Saturday, put on my FROG bracelet that Denise gave me and went to see my mom in the hospital. she woke up from a coma minutes before I got there. Denise is an ANGEL. Lori

BritGrl wrote 173 Days Ago

I'm glad you were able to go and share this beautiful experience with those of us sadly unable to attend. Thanks!

Jmskelton wrote 173 Days Ago

Bill, Thank you for taking the time to share with us who could not attend this beautiful celebration of life service with photos! We were there in spirit and all I can say is Thank you, no other words truly suffice. Jeannine

believenhim wrote 173 Days Ago

If this isn't a reflection of Wondrous Love, I don't know what is. Jonnae, Denise and the entire Taylor family: Thank you. Bill, Terry, and anonymous givers, Thank you for being there and listening to your hearts. Beth

Heather wrote 173 Days Ago

Thanks Bill for being there and for describing the day so beautifully for us. My heart and thoughts were in Indiana yesterday but reading your post made me feel like I was really there.

Sharen wrote 173 Days Ago

Bill ~ Bless you, Stoney, Terry and the crew for all you do and for bringing us there, blessing us so we can share this love, beauty, and message, as an extended family. The outpouring of love for this beautiful precious angel, Jonnae, is in response to how much she's touched all of us with her faith, courage, and love. It is how life can be for everyone. I ask those here, to ponder this question: If we were to have a celebration of life in our honor.... what would it look like? ~Sharen~

Humdinger wrote 173 Days Ago

YOU KNOW, people, guys aren't "supposed" to say things like Bill is saying. You're not "supposed" to talk about your heart. You're not "supposed" to talk about being moved to tears, again and again. But that's what happens when LOVE abounds and fills your life. Bill doesn't get the credit that he so deserves. Not even close. But have you caught something, folks?? The man isn't in it for the credit. THIS place, TRANSFORMATION, is different. As it should be. And it's going to take us, not being status quo, to keep it the place it should be. NOW, on to the STARS...JONNAE, DENISE and FAMILY (is there a dog or cat in there somewhere Denise?). As much as we can empathize, even the folks who have children...we can't come within a universe of realizing the enormity of this Journey that the Taylor family is riding. The pain, the disappointment, the fear, the unknown of what today might bring. I stand in awe of JONNAE, her mom, and the rest of her amazing family. I hope, transformation gang, that you are taking notes. ~Kevin

jim10000 wrote 173 Days Ago

For once in my life, I'm at a loss for words.

sunshineAZ wrote 173 Days Ago

Your presence at Jonnae's celebration is something movie's are made out of! How lucky that you got to meet the star in person! Can't wait to see the Tribute video. So many wonderful things have been created out of your wonderful community here :) Kristin

quadsmom wrote 173 Days Ago

Thank you so much for going, it made me feel so much better knowing you'd be there. :) (since I was unable to go and so many of us wanted to-it was as if you represented the rest of us...praying and loving them from home yesterday.) THANK YOU so much and thank you for the story and photos here. Again, bringing tears to my eyes, but so wonderful to read the account of the day. God is so good...

quadsmom wrote 173 Days Ago

Thank you so much for going, it made me feel so much better knowing you'd be there. :) (since I was unable to go and so many of us wanted to-it was as if you represented the rest of us...praying and loving them from home yesterday.) THANK YOU so much and thank you for the story and photos here. Again, bringing tears to my eyes, but so wonderful to read the account of the day. God is so good...

Mellie wrote 173 Days Ago

Thank you so much for putting me "there". What an amazing, heart touching experience. I hiked for 3 hours yesterday on the Sandia Mountains and at the highest point, at 1 o'clock my time (3pm Eastern time) my husband and I stopped...looked out at the city..and prayed for Jonnae. I cried out of joy envisioning the balloons filling the sky and I could feel the happiness this must have brought her. You made the right decision to be a part of this, and I am sure those who missed your talk agree and would have had it no other way.

jameshollis wrote 173 Days Ago

Beautiful

tsheachic wrote 173 Days Ago

I'm so glad the celebration of life was such a success. Jonnae, Denise and their family are truly inspiring (and Bill Phillips too). I'm glad I'm part of the BFL family to learn of such caring and wonderful people. My prayers and good thoughts are with all of you.

martygoldman wrote 173 Days Ago

Thanks for bringing all of us the heart of the room so we can feel the joy the tears and the love and courage that was there shining around all of you that night. It is now out here with our entire community! Thanks Taylors and Thanks Bill Terry and crew!! You all our appreciated and Loved! It inspires me to even live more fully! Marty

Blueskies wrote 173 Days Ago

Hi Bill. You are so special to so many people. I can only imagine how special last night must have been to you, Jonnae and everyone there. Thank you for being so amazing!!!

Snicks3107 wrote 173 Days Ago

Thank you so much for sharing this. I could feel the love and support that was there through your words and pictures. I was in tears reading this. Very heartfelt....Shannon

wrote 173 Days Ago

WOW. That is just beyond awesome.

Deb wrote 173 Days Ago

Thank you Bill. You and your whole team. I just can't seem to put into words how I feel. I'm in awe. You hear this, I'm sure, but you are awesome. You have made such a difference in not only their lives, but so, SO many others. God Bless you. Deb ÜÜÜ

Stormy wrote 173 Days Ago

Bill, thank you for sharing this, and these photos. The power, intensity, and beauty of the moment leaps off the page. Thank you to you and your incredible team for all you've done for Jonnae and the Taylor family.

Stormy

Carol wrote 173 Days Ago

Dear Bill, Thank you so much for sharing this with all of us and especially for being there for the Taylor family. I hope you know how much you impact all of us with your kindness and caring nature. You truly are changing the world, one transformer at a time. Taking us from the worst to the first. I'm so grateful to be a part of this wonderful community. And, I feel so fortunate to know Denise. I hope for peace and tranquility for all the Taylors today and every day...WITH MUCH LOVE.

JessieTrotter wrote 173 Days Ago

Bill, so glad you could be there and represent all of us who could not though our thoughts and prayers were. This is what LIFE is all about.

jillybean wrote 173 Days Ago

WOW - that is beautiful!!! Thank you Bill for sharing your experience for those of us who couldn't be there. You and Denise both shared about listening to and following your heart (inner voice). Thank you for leading by example. Jill

Diane wrote 173 Days Ago

My heart is SMILING...God Bless You!

kathytnt wrote 173 Days Ago

Wish I could have been there- Sound like a favulous celebration! Jonnae your spirit will always be in our hearts!!! Denise and JOnnae - Youa re loved so much! Kathy

rottnutz wrote 173 Days Ago

Outstanding! Thank you for sharing this Bill. What an excellent way to start out the week. You all are indescribably beautiful with the way you've shown so much love and kindness. I am in awe. Forever touched in my heart. Al

Laura wrote 173 Days Ago

This is exactly what I needed to start my day. I was never so happy in my life when I heard yesterday you had cancelled a EVENT to attend Jonnae's life celebration. This is exactly the type of thing that is not done often enough in the "Big Buissines" world. This is EXACTLYwhy I 1st in 99' was attracted to your way and your personality. You are someone who can CHANGE the WORLD by this 1 example ,never mind the somany other things you do. But now EVERY PERSON reading this that was not already understanding of "What exactly in life matters": might now have a clue! See a "different" way ,a BETTER WAY! To make a difference in someone's life MATTERS ,it matters more than any amount of money in this world. For a long time I have tried to explain & see this example in the world,yet all I get is neg. feedback. I am so happy that you are DIFFERENT & are in a unique position to LEAD BY EXAMPLE! I know how much it meant to Jonnae for everyone to be there and foryou to break a committment must of meant the WORLD to her & her family. Something no amount of time will ever take away ..the memory of TRUE FRIENDS ...you are my HERO today ! And since Diane was never able to get me footage that I could transfer, I am thankfyl YOU had this up & available so EARLY even after your LONG DAY! I appreciate what you have done so much for this family & baby girl,that words would never explain..my heart id singing! Hugs,Laura *^*

Mary wrote 173 Days Ago

Thank you Bill, for sharing this with the rest of us here. Denise, Jonnae and the rest of the Taylor family are really teaching us many important lessons in life--no only to cherish it and make each day count, but how to let go when the time comes. Bill, what you have done for Denise and Jonnae is awesome. Whenever I begin to doubt that one person can change things, I think of you and the number of lives that have been transformed because of one person---you are truly a gift to us all. Thank you for being that one person who believes when no one else does.

sunlightandshadows wrote 173 Days Ago

Bill - Thank you for your words, to read them and the words from Denise it gives those of us who were unable to be there an opportunity of 'feeling the love' that was in the Theatre. I am a believer in the fact that this is a journey we chose to experience - I think Jonnae and Denise have given all of us an exceptional gift in just knowing their story, they truly are remarkable people. 15 Balloons were sent to 'Heaven' at 3pm yesterday - to join the celebration of Life Love and Light Jaki

Devildogs_Doll wrote 173 Days Ago

Bill, you are an amazing, amazing human being. I was so bummed being out on the other coast that I couldn't attend Jonnae's celebration. My husband turned to me after reading Denise's latest update and said, "He made it! Bill made it out to see them!" and we both had tears in our eyes for Jonnae and the fact that you rescheduled a big event to go see her. I took the final photos today for my 12 week transformation. I couldn't quit thinking that today feels like the first day of the rest of my life...and how these are the last days of Jonnae's life. Jonnae has changed all of us in ways we can't describe. She has taught me about how precious and ephemeral life is. God bless the Taylors and God bless you for being there. I'm sure it was a beautiful moment when she arrived. Can't wait to see her tribute video.

ckendall wrote 173 Days Ago

WOW...what an amazing event. It seems to have turned out perfectly! I wish so much I could have been there. Jonnae your beautiful soul will live forever! Thank you for sharing your experience with us Bill. Namaste, Catherine

amy wrote 173 Days Ago

This is the epitome of what heart is here. Beautiful.....

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