Inspirational Woman #1 - Cynthia Cook

Every year as Thanksgiving passes I take some time to reflect, even if only fleetingly, on what I'm thankful for.

I have to say that even though an occasional vacation comes up high on that list - I always come back to being thankful for the wonderful people in my life.

One of my goals for the Spirit for Living blog was to highlight women who I find to be truly inspiring. There are women around us who are doing really amazing things and I want to take this opportunity to shine a light on what they are doing, in the hopes that their stories will provide some inspiration to others. We all have special qualities, great achievements and inspirational stories - my goal is to feature these - one great woman at a time!

Sometimes I do get wrapped up in work, work and more work and realize many of us don't have to look far to get a little pick me up - a little inspiration from the women who surround us.

The first Inspirational Woman that I'd like to "introduce" you to is Cynthia Cook from Philadelphia, PA. Cynthia, 29, is a poet, artist, business woman, and student, who is passionate about spirituality and service to others. Cynthia manages to blend all of her interests into a well balanced and inspiring life. She also my sister - a huge part of my life and immensely inspiring to me. I am happy to be able to share her with you!

What do you do in a typical weekday? I try to live my life by a ‘simple is better’ motto. It keeps me grounded. I am a business professional with a penchant for marketing. So the majority of my day is spent in an office. After work, I love to unwind by cooking a nice, fresh, home cooked dinner. I also unwind by working out and try to do so about three times a week.. I use to run a great deal and I am trying to get back into it.

I know you are active in your community, what kinds of things do you do? I keep myself as immersed in the community and serving others as much as possible. I am the co-chair of my company’s Employee Activity Committee, which involves coordinating various service activities throughout the year. I helped coordinate several drives this year including a coat drive, clothing drive, blood drive, United Way Day of Service, Philadelphia Cares Day, and a back-to-school collection drive. I enjoyed every minute of it.

What do you do to unwind on the weekends?
As an MBA student, studying is a big part of my life right now and I am trying to stay focused and absorb as much as possible. I am really enjoying what I am learning and am excited about how I can use it both currently and in the future.

I also spend some of my weekend time on occasional freelance writing. I enjoy writing poetry when possible.

I am active with my alumni association, currently serving as the Treasurer. I am very passionate about education, particularly because it can eradicate social and economic barriers. It can empower. I am very involved with my undergraduate university’s local alumni chapter.

I also enjoy spending time with my family and friends, working out, going out to a relaxing late brunch at a local café. I enjoy staying home and curling up in bed to watch a movie on Friday nights, or go to a familiar favorite restaurant Saturday night. Absolutely, anything chill – my brain is tired!!

What are you two or three passions in life?
It's hard to narrow it down to just a few, I am passionate about so many things!

One of my strongest passions is spirituality and building a stronger relationship with God through Jesus Christ. I am a very spiritual person and aspire to be a better Christian every day. I am constantly on a quest for self-improvement. I am currently trying to be a better student of the Bible and study scripture to uncover even greater truth.

I also love helping and mentoring others, particular those who truly need help. I have been very involved in various not-for-profit organizations over the past few years.

Art is another of my loves - I have always been very artistic. I love the visual arts - going to plays, to see the orchestra, as well as fine arts. I love to go to the museum, my favorite artists is Gustav Klimt and I love Degas’ sculptures. I am hoping to do some painting and mosaics once I finish my graduate studies next May. I am trying to create my own art to decorate my house and have recently made some wall art for my bedroom and will do more soon.

What do you feel have been your two major achievements to date?
Education is so important to me, I am proud that I have an undergraduate degree and I am almost finished my MBA.

Finding ways to balance career, family, personal interests, and philanthropy can be truly challenging so I consider it an accomplishment that I feel I am doing a good job keeping all of these areas nurtured and present in my life.

What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
My favorite quote is, “Expect nothing and everything you receive is a gift.” This encouragement to be grateful has been extremely valuable in my life.

Who inspires you? What improves your 'spirit'?
Jesus, the Bible, my family and close positive friends inspire me. I have a few women role models outside of my family that I admire and respect. Good people inspire me. I am always trying to grow and learn how to be a better person.

Listening to music, being with my best friend, being silly and just having fun improve my spirit.

How did you get into writing poetry? I have been writing for over 15 years.. I used to write a lot of short stories when I was young - like 10 or 12. I have been writing every since. I enjoy expressing myself through writing and art

What advice do you have for other women?
Respect those that came before you - they are a source of wisdom. Help those that come after you - they represent the future.

Be thankful, be positive, be humble, be respectful, be simple, be a role model.

Enjoy a good laugh often...enjoy the adventure of your life!