"My Faith Looks Up To Thee" illustrates the struggles and hardships faced by real people in everyday life and living. First, the author testifies of his encounter with God through a real life miracle. He then declares that all life holds a promise because it is a gift from God and shouldn't be destroyed. Next, he shares personal experiences to illustrate the controversial "black" and "white" issues and encourages his readers to love one another since we have but one Maker who loves us all. The author reminds us that it is God who makes the final decision between life and death, therefore we should not let go. Finally, he presents the blueprint for youths who desire to succeed by focusing on the importance of obedience and family life. Themes of endurance, faith, hope and courage are dealt with in this collection. Joel Chinapen was born in Guyana, South America on March 22, 1949. He was educated at Cropper Primary, Berbice High, and the University of Guyana. He began his teaching career in 1968 at Auchlyne Primary School, and continued at Cropper Primary, Bushlot Secondary, Corentyne High, and Corentyne Comprehensive Schools. He worked as an Industrial welfare Officer with the Guyana Sugar Corporation before accepting a teaching appointment in the Bahamas. He taught at Sandy Point and Marsh Harbour Primary in Abaco, then at Harbour Island in Eleuthera. He taught in several Christian schools in Florida then served as a Social Service Specialist with the Hillsborough County Head Start Program. He is currently a 4th Grade Professor at the Kids Community College Charter School in Riverview, Florida. Mr. Chinapen holds a B.A. and M.A. from Trinity College, and a B.S. from Springfield College. His first book, "Sugar is Bitter, Sugar is Sweet" a collection of 50 poems, was published in 2006.
