Unlocking Life's Lessons: Copeland on Copeland Q & A written by J. McBride, Beaumont Enterprise

[Jim Copeland]

Jimmy Copeland, author of "Life is a Game," (Living Waters Publishing Company, 60 pgs, $17), asked and answered questions about himself.

Q: What is your personal background?

A: I was born in Fayetteville, North Carolina, in 1980. My father is a retired Lt. Colonel and mom is a Social Worker. I am presently employed by the Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Prisons as the Special Education Coordinator for the correctional facility.

I was raised with strong Christian values. I practice and believe that a Christian should be defined not just by the words they say but the life they live.

I have my graduate degree in Secondary Higher Education and I love helping others learn. I love to spend time with my family (wife and 2 children). I am a firm believer in positivity. I believe in placing yourself in as many positive environments as possible, because these environments can propel your faith and minister to your spirit.

I have my B.S. degree in Speech Communications. I believe that using the talents God has given you to be a blessing to others is what we are placed on earth to do. Our lives are testimonies, and when we express them, we can not measure how they may bless others.

Q: What are your expectations for this book?

A: I believe that everyone can benefit from this book, regardless of his or her background, race, creed, ethnicity, or color.

The book is designed to reach people who need exhortation and encouragement in accomplishing the goals and tasks God has set for them to achieve using the gifts and talents he has equipped them with. The sooner we focus on maximizing our gifts, the greater our achievements can be. I am a firm believer in character and integrity. I believe these are traits which draw success to you.

Q; Who are your inspirations?

A: Martin Luther King Jr. was an educated man of integrity and character. He was bold in expressing his views on equality and faith. This one man changed the world with an open heart, spirit-filled life, communication, and a passion for people.

Edwin Louis Cole also was an educated man filled with wisdom, which has encouraged me to be the best man I can be for God, country, and family. He encouraged and demanded that men live and walk with character and integrity and only settled for God's best in their lives. His wisdom and words have touched millions and his books have transformed my life.

Q: Do you have any tips for would be authors in your genre?

A: Stay focused, have faith in God and there is nothing you can't achieve. Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance and he will lead you into all truth.



Updated 04/19/2008 06:07:21 PM CDT
©The Beaumont Enterprise 2008

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