I chose to write this book because as I look back over my life, I often wonder why God took a girl of no reputation or knowledge about life and placed her into the hands of a man who thought he had all knowledge and experience for handling his life. He had the ability to manipulate others to fill the deep void in his own life even though he was unaware of it. In the midst of this union between two people of vastly different backgrounds, came the birth of six children. The storms, at times, were fierce and left footprints in the soil of our beings. Yet God orchestrated our lives according to His plan and purpose for each of us. As we journeyed forward, God allowed the grass to gradually grow and cover up the soil causing the footprints to slowly fade. He gradually stripped away those things that held our heart, mind, and spirits captive. Reflecting back, I thank God for bringing me through to this age in my life. Because I can truly see and embrace the reality of His Truth. I know His blessings follow me even when I do not recognize them. I have learned that when you are in a storm, look up to find the rainbow. That is God. As I write this book, many years of experience are now in my past. I hope when you read this, it will draw you closer to the Lord Jesus Christ. I also hope it will remind you of who truly holds your tomorrows, and nothing is impossible with God. He is always working things out in His own time frame for your good. I wrote this book to give hope and encouragement to the woman who chooses to read it.
Emily Janet (Robinson) Coopwood, born the morning of June 14, 1931 in Gary, Indiana at 2121 Jefferson St. on National Flag Day, lived her early years during the depression. Her parents were Walter Robinson and Mary Ruth (Brown) Robinson. Her mother was born in 1903 in Augusta, Ga and father was born in Buford, NC. Her Grandmother Connor was an entrepreneur in the early 1900's. Even during that time of segregation, she owned a home and a small business. When Emily's Grandmother Connor's husband died, she sold her home and business and moved to Evanston, Il. In 1915, Emily's grandmother and mother settled in Gary, Indiana which was a mixed steel mill area of town that used horses and buggies for transportation. Emily was the youngest of four children. Her parents' first-born daughter died at an early age. She lived her life with an older sister, Hardina and brother, Walter. Her father, who was very gentle, quiet, and a great dancer, died when Emily was 7 years old. Emily lived a great life growing up even after her father died. She attended Roosevelt School, the only school for blacks in Gary during that time, from kindergarten through 12th grade, graduating in 1949. The change in Emily's life journey began with the death of her brother Walter. Emily met and married her husband of 67 years in 1950 and they had six children. She attended Purdue University and became a Licensed Practical Nurse in 1955, retiring her license in 2010. Emily currently lives in Woodbridge, Virginia where she continues to spend time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Emily's compassion for children is reflected in her continued giving to organizations that help poor and disadvantaged children throughout the world.
