A Change Is Gonna Come
A Memoir of Coping with the Harsh Realities of Life
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A Change Is Gonna Come is the title that I chose, which best describes my determination throughout forty-years of events. The title was prompted by late singer-songwriter Sam Cooke's 1964 single hit song. This song became an inspiration to me and my endurance in life. It was a song played as a child when my grandmother would do her own soul searching. Even though the song was well before my era, the lyrics described a mood shared by many at the time and now. One of the verses of the song brings fond memories. With the well-tuned orchestra's music playing in the background, Sam Cooke sang:
"Oh there been times that I thought I couldn't last for long;But now I think I'm able to carry on; It's been a long, long time coming;
But I know-w-w-w, a change is gonna come."
Being able to fight through the pain & suffering-- the guilt & betrayals-- to be successful and live to talk about it is truly surreal for me. But I have to warn you, the contents that you're about to engulf will aptly make you laugh at my mistakes, cry because of my pain, angry with my sometimes dense decisions, and most importantly, it will help you to reflect on your own life experiences as well as your commitment to family and friends. Here is my story...
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About the Book
Vernon Robinson Jr. knows we all share a common bond that is more than just the blood we shed, the color of our skin, or the universal language we speak. That common bond is adversity. In this true story, Robinson, who has seen his share of struggles in his lifetime, offers a poignant glimpse into his forty-year journey to conquer his childhood demons, overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles, learn to believe in himself, and pursue his dreams.
Robinson begins by detailing a difficult childhood in which he was forced at a young age to cope with death and endure an abusive home environment. Seemingly destined to walk a dark path, Robinson shares how he turned to the streets and was challenged to avoid drugs, gangs, and crime. Determined to turn his life around, Robinson eventually joined the Marines where he pushed boundaries, embraced opportunities, and utilized his street smarts. But with the good came a relentless fear of failure and another devastating life experience that threatened his survival. As he chronicles how he managed to overcome his most daunting challenge, Robinson proves to younger generations that anything is possible.
A Change Is Gonna Come shares one man’s powerful journey through life as he learned to overcome adversity and became a decorated marine, a devoted husband, and a proud advocate of diabetes awareness.
About the Author
Vernon Robinson Jr. grew up in the Washington, DC, area. Determined to make a change in his life, he became a United States Marine and earned degrees in computer information systems, business administration, and applied management. Vernon and his wife, Michelle, have two children and reside in Western, New York.