Motivating Stories from Local Women
Every woman has a story to tell, and no two stories are alike. Meet the women who have persevered through challenges and tribulations and come out the other side stronger than ever. These unique individuals have seen their fair share of adversity but continue to inspire those around them with the lessons they have learned and their love of life. Read on for a truly motivating story by a woman who experienced them firsthand.
Photo by Emily Pérez Long / Photos taken on location at The Chattanoogan Hotel
……….
Cindy Rix, Riverview
I have always been one to take life head-on, never questioning the why or how, because God prepares us for what he has in store for us. When I am asked to give a quick bio of myself, I have to think: so what do they really want to hear, the easy story or the real story?
Do they want to know I have been married for 39 years to the same man (Scott)? That I have four adult kids (in their 30s)? That three of them are triplets born 14 weeks early, all weighing under two pounds? That our hospital bills were in the millions? That the last triplet did not come home until he was 11 months old, and our daughter has had nine brain surgeries? That our son has cerebral palsy? That my husband had a stroke at 52 or that five years ago I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma?
When asked how I handle it, my answer is prayer and a lot of faith. God never disappoints, and he provides such blessings. I learned early in life to look at the good not the bad, to move forward not back. I joke about all that has happened because we all have a choice – to laugh about it and move forward, or cry and give up. It has been so overwhelming, but I always told my kids when they were overwhelmed to remember that every day is a new day – a chance to start over and learn from the past!
Regardless of the loneliness, challenges, heartache, and uncertainty, I am a far better person for it. I have had to look at life as an opportunity despite the challenges it continues to throw my way. In his book The Present, Spencer Johnson says to learn from the past, be in the present, and plan for the future. I’ve made a small tweak but continue to live my life by learning from the past, being present in all that I do, and looking to the future with optimism and hope.