Cliff Norton - Starting the day with God

As I sit here and drink my morning coffee on this quiet peaceful Saturday morning, I watched a new day begin.  And it all came rushing back.  The reason I quit advocating,  I'm going to Cliff Norton's services next weekend.

I talked to him last November 13, and since moving to Jacksonville, I wanted to meet up with him for lunch but while planning, he had to take a call.  He returned my call later that day and I forgot to call him back.  I thought I would wait on the Holidays to be over.  I thought I had TIME.  Don't we all?

I, never in a million years, would've predicted my Godly inspiration would be going home the first day of 2024.  I loved reading his words of encouragement each day.  He is a funny man and football rival who I would tease because I'm a UGA fan.  He always had a quick witted smart remark since UGA has been dominating so much lately.

I would always be up against him and Stephanie Kohn. We lost Stephanie in 2021, the year my father passed.  Cliff helped me through so much.  Now they are reunited in heaven with their love for the Gators.  

But, I will not be discouraged.  Cliff would want us to carry on and fight.  He would tell us that we are here to bring people closer to Christ and to not be discouraged.  Because we may have troubles in this life, but Christ has overcome the world.  - John 16:33

So, the man, the legend, and my personal inspiration is home and no longer has to suffer.  He's been set free, and in the end, that's all we could hope for.  I'll see you on the other side my friend.  I love you and thank you for the inspiration you always gave to everyone.

I've written a article for Healthline with more detail but this is my picture place, my journal for the world, my journal for my daughter, my baby.  His service will be Jan 20 at 5:30 in Jacksonville for those who want to attend,

In honor of Kelly Shannon

We talked before this, but if you look in the background, Cliff is in the white shirt and I'm in the blue next to him.  We were both speakers at Jacksonville's "Free to Breathe" event.  It was the first time we met face to face back in 2015.

to say we were friendly rivals was an understatement

But we always laughed with each other

Rest In Paradise sweet friend.  I shall see you again. 

My favorite song and one he quoted often, Casting Crowns - Scars in Heaven. PLEASE LISTEN

He is free from this disease.  He won.