Hello, dear friends! Today, I want to share a beautiful experience that filled my heart with joy and gratitude. On September 5, 2024, I was blessed to attend the RiseHer Network’s Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award event in Atlanta Georgia There were over 30 wonderful recipients there, all recognized for their amazing contributions to the community. I couldn’t stay long enough to take many pictures, but let me tell you, everyone was so warm and welcoming! I felt honored to be among such a beautiful group, and I believe that every single one of you deserves this recognition.
The next day, September 6, was an awesome day with RiseHer Network as we rolled up our sleeves and did the important work that God has called us to do. We visited Mercy Care and “Tent City,” where we distributed toiletries and shared love with those who are homeless. It was a powerful experience! We listened to some mindblowing testimonies and prayed for those who wanted it. I was especially grateful that my sons were there with us. They got to see who actually benefits from the things we pack and donate at home. It was an emotional day, but we reminded ourselves that God is higher than any feelings we had.
I want to take a moment to thank Verlisa Wearing, all the volunteers, and everyone in the RiseHer Network for giving us this honorable opportunity. It’s not every day that you get to work alongside such passionate people. I was so excited to see everyone again at the Gala the following night!
On September 7, I felt a special calling as I remembered that God doesn’t only choose the qualified; He qualifies those He calls. My husband, Marvis Cox, and I were honored to receive the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award! Marvis is a proud U.S. Army veteran who has dedicated his life to community service, raising awareness for lupus and thyroid cancer. I also received the award for my work in community service, autism and lupus awareness, storytelling through my published books, and outreach to troubled youth and foster children.
I must admit, I was a little nervous at first. I wondered how the other recipients would receive us since no one really knew who we were. But, to my delight, everyone was incredibly supportive and encouraging. After sharing our background and our family’s journey from trials to triumphs, I hoped to inspire others in the room to keep their eyes on God and His mission for their lives. His vote is the only one that truly matters! God puts us in rooms where others might think we don’t belong, and I’m so thankful that He continues to use my family and me as vessels for His work.
I am especially grateful for organizations like the RiseHer Network that make us “little people” feel appreciated, even when it seems like no one else notices. The event was very classy, organized, and professional, and most importantly, it was blessed and anointed. If you want to know more about this incredible organization or find out how you can get involved, please visit their website at [RiseHer Network](https://www.therisehernetwork.com/About) or email them at info@therisehernetwork.com.
Now, let me take a moment to reflect on the incredible people I had the pleasure of meeting and celebrating with at the event. I want to recognize all the other recipients who were honored alongside us: Tammi Lambert, Bishop Lynda Brown Hall, Dr. Krystylle Richardson, Mignon Pinson, Maya Jai Pinson, Myra Hamilton, Esq., Dr. Markesha Miller, Linda K. Edwards, Dr. Serena Bermudez, Monica Wiley, Bishop-Elect Darren Gayle, Reverend Dr. Paulette Harper, Dr. Melissa Nash, Rebecca Suzik, Marquitta Rucker, Luis Mascorro, Josias Jean-Pierre, Reverend Mahiri Allen, Patricia Marie Frye, Jeffrey “Toyman” Olsen, Sherman Gillums, Jr., William Allen, Leann Hendrick, Chaplain DykeBa L. Rogers, Reverend Michael Futrell, Syreeta Plummer El, Dr. Sonya McKinzie, Colonel Anthony Kyles, Hon. Mayor Derrick Wood, Dr. Nathaniel Couser, PhD, Navian Scarlett, Alan David Roth, Floyd Grant, Dr. Glenda Jean Sherman, Carla P. Gaskins, Angie L. Woods, Dr. Vee Escarment, Lady Terran Jordan, and April Holt Smith. It was a true pleasure to be in the same room with each and every one of you!
Let’s dive deeper into the experience and explore more about the RiseHer Network, community service, and the impact of sharing personal stories.
The RiseHer Network
The RiseHer Network is a remarkable organization dedicated to empowering women and communities through support, education, and outreach. They focus on bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds to celebrate achievements, share experiences, and work collaboratively to uplift those in need. Their events, like the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award ceremony, serve not only as a recognition of hard work but also as a platform for connection and inspiration.
The Importance of Community Service
Community service plays a vital role in building strong, supportive neighborhoods. It allows individuals to give back, help those who are struggling, and create a sense of belonging. Through initiatives like distributing toiletries to the homeless or providing support for families in need, community service helps address immediate concerns while fostering long-term relationships.
Personal Stories in Community Service
Sharing personal stories in community service initiatives is powerful. It allows people to see the human side of issues, making them more relatable and impactful. Here are a few ways personal stories can enhance community service efforts:
1. **Creating Awareness**: When someone shares their story, it can shed light on issues that might be overlooked. For instance, sharing experiences related to homelessness can help others understand the challenges faced by those in similar situations, encouraging more support and empathy.
2. **Building Hope**: Personal stories of triumph can inspire hope in others. When people hear about someone overcoming adversity, it can motivate them to take action in their own lives or get involved in helping others.
3. **Strengthening Community Bonds**: Sharing experiences fosters connections among community members. It brings people together, creating a sense of unity and teamwork in tackling common challenges.
4. **Encouraging Participation**: When individuals share their stories, it can encourage others to join in and contribute. It shows that everyone has a role to play, no matter how big or small.
The Power of Recognition
Receiving awards like the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award is not just about personal accolades; it’s a celebration of collective efforts. It recognizes the hard work and dedication of individuals who strive to make a difference. This recognition can inspire others to pursue their passions and get involved in their communities.
The Emotional Journey
The journey of receiving such an award can be emotional. It’s a moment of reflection on the struggles faced, the battles fought, and the lives touched along the way. It’s a reminder that every effort counts, no matter how small, and that God has a purpose for each individual.
A Special Tribute
In sharing the story of Marvis, we not only honor his sacrifices but also highlight the broader theme of resilience. His journey reflects the struggles many veterans face when returning home and adjusting to civilian life. By sharing his story, it sheds light on the importance of recognizing veterans’ contributions and ensuring they receive the respect and acknowledgment they deserve.
Building a Legacy
For both Marvis and the recipients of the award, their work creates a legacy that can inspire future generations. By sharing their stories and experiences, they pave the way for others to follow in their footsteps, encouraging them to make their own impact in the world.
The Future of Community Service
As we look to the future, community service will continue to evolve. New challenges will arise, and new opportunities for helping others will emerge. Organizations like the RiseHer Network play a crucial role in adapting to these changes and ensuring that communities remain strong and connected.
The experience with the RiseHer Network and the recognition received is a powerful reminder of the importance of community service, personal storytelling, and honoring those who dedicate their lives to helping others. Each contribution, no matter how small, adds to the collective effort to create a better world.
Celebrating the Journey with RiseHer Network**What Does Linda Think?**
As I wrap up my thoughts today, I want to give a heartfelt tribute to my husband,Sgt Marvis F Cox Sr. He is a true hero in my eyes. Even though he never received the Purple Heart he was promised for his three deployments overseas, he has shown incredible strength and courage. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, he saved over 60% of his men, which is a testament to his bravery and leadership.
Coming home, Marvis faced his own battles, including injuries that resulted in being disabled and required multiple surgeries, procedures, and years of therapy. Yet, through it all, he has found a way to encourage young men in our community, speak at different schools, and connect with fellow veterans through his motivational speaking, bestselling books, and leadership.
I know how much not having that Purple Heart has hurt him, and it breaks my heart to see him carry that pain. But I want him to know how deeply I love him and how proud I am of the man he is. He continues to shine a light for others, showing them that they too can rise above their challenges.
Thank you for allowing me to share my journey with RiseHer Network and my heartfelt thoughts. Let’s continue to uplift each other and make a difference in our communities together!
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