Women’s Empowerment Notes: Gratitude & Inspiration from the Heart

Yesterday, I found myself in a room filled with powerful, inspiring women. The event was hosted and organized by Dominique Poydras, whose words truly touched my soul. As I continue to battle situational depression, being in that space reminded me of my favorite song by Tasha Cobbs Leonard, In the Room—a song about women coming together to empower, not to conspire against each other. I needed that reminder of the strength that sisterhood brings. Dominique’s words resonated deeply, and I felt the need to share the notes I took, not just for myself, but to inspire other women who, like me, sometimes forget their own power in moments of struggle.

Gratitude-Themed Reflections

Be Grateful: “No One Owes You Anything” – Dominique Poydras

One of the first things that struck me was when Dominique said, “Be grateful—no one owes you anything.” I used to feel like the world owed me something. After all, I didn’t ask to be born, and yet I was born into hell. So naturally, I believed the world should give me something in return. My oldest sister was the only person who ever said those same words to me, and I always told her she was wrong—that the world does owe me. But hearing Dominique say it, in that moment and in that space, struck a chord. Maybe this is a truth I need to accept. Maybe it’s time to stop waiting for the world to pay me back and start embracing gratitude for what I have now. Gratitude shifts everything, and that’s the message Dominique reminded me of.

Sacrifice & Receiving

Dominique shared how she had recently moved from Stockton, leaving behind everything familiar, to find a place where women would pour into her the way she has always poured into them. I felt that in my soul. I, too, left California to start over, stepping into a new role as a philanthropist here in Nevada. Though I wasn’t born or raised here, I see a need that I can fulfill. God called me here, and this event reminded me I am exactly where I’m supposed to be.

It’s no coincidence that Dominique just left Stockton and I just left Sacramento. While in Sacramento, I had planted seeds of philanthropy through organizations like WEAVE and First 5. WEAVE Inc. is an organization that helps survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault by offering counseling, safe shelter, and legal advocacy. Meanwhile, First 5 supports children from birth to age five, focusing on early childhood development and family strengthening services. Doing panel discussions and philanthropy work for these organizations was deeply meaningful to me, but God’s plan for my life led me back to Nevada. While I cherish the impact I made, this new chapter is part of a bigger purpose that I’m continuing to trust and follow.

Finding a group of women here, like the Business Besties in Las Vegas, reinforced that I am where I need to be, even if a part of me feels like my true group of women is back in California. But, for now, I’m grateful for this community and this journey.

The Gift of Space

Dominique mentioned that the event space was donated. That alone is a testament to the power of giving. Someone recognized the importance of what she’s doing and wanted to contribute. This is what humanity looks like. It’s something I’ve felt is lacking here in Nevada, but that act reminded me that humanity still looms. Whether it’s a gift of space, time, or resources, we should always be grateful. It’s not always about money or what you can gain; sometimes, it’s about how you can help.

Quotes that Resonate

“Whether someone gives you $1 or 30 minutes of their time, be grateful.” – Dominique Poydras

We often measure value by money, but time is just as valuable—sometimes even more so. Whether someone gives financially or takes time out of their day to pour into you, both are acts of love and support. Gratitude isn’t about the size of the gift; it’s about recognizing the intention behind it.

“I can’t give anything to someone else that I don’t have for myself.”

You can’t pour from an empty cup. This message keeps showing up in my life—self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. If we don’t take care of ourselves, we can’t take care of others, no matter how much we want to.

“When you’re a light in this world, sometimes you just do things—whether it’s paid or unpaid—because God requires you to.”

That hit me hard. Sometimes, we’re called to serve in ways that don’t make sense in the moment, but we do it anyway because God placed that purpose in us. When you’re walking in your calling, some things aren’t about financial gain or recognition. You do it because it’s required of you.

“Many are called, but few are chosen.”

We, as women, are stepping into spaces where we belong, where we are needed, and it’s time to choose ourselves. It’s time for all of us to step into our power, fully and unapologetically.

Sisters Inspiring Sisters

This event was all about women coming together to uplift one another. No one cared about titles, status, or social media followings. It was real women sharing real stories, real struggles, and real encouragement. The energy was powerful, reminding me of the beauty and strength of sisterhood.

Faith, Self-Care, and Integrity

The event honored Tashante McCoy, a servant of God who has turned her pain into purpose. As a severe trauma survivor, her words deeply impacted me:

“Only what you do for God lasts.” – Tashante McCoy

Trusting God is key. We often try to do things on our own, but when we align our actions with our purpose and trust the process, the results are always greater than what we could have imagined.

Self-Care

Tashante, as a self-care advocate, reminded me that taking care of myself is not selfish—it’s a necessary part of the journey. We cannot pour from an empty cup. Self-care is about making sure we are whole and energized, so we can continue to give to others.

Integrity

“What you do in your private life will come to light in your public life.” Integrity matters. It’s about who you are when no one is looking. The seeds you plant in private will manifest in public, so stay true to yourself and live with intention.

Gratitude for Everyday Acts

“People do something for us every day, and we never show them gratitude.” Let that sink in. We pass by countless acts of kindness without acknowledgment. From the person who holds the door to the friend who checks in, we must remember to show gratitude for the small moments as well as the big ones.

Final Thoughts

This gathering with Dominique and these amazing women reminded me of the power of sisterhood, gratitude, self-care, faith, and integrity. These are not just principles to talk about but to live by—especially for women navigating the complexities of life, motherhood, and entrepreneurship. As Dominique said, “Only what you do for God lasts.”

Let’s continue lifting each other up, showing gratitude for all gestures big and small, and trusting that we are exactly where we’re meant to be. Together, we can move mountains.

My name is Tiara Christopher, and I am the change I want to see in this world.