KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — A Journey from Darkness to Light
Christina Duncan’s story is one that resonates deeply, touching on themes of resilience, redemption, and the quest for a better life. In her home garage in Knoxville, memories of her past lie in stacks of photographs. While some evoke fond recollections, others hold memories too painful to keep. “When I saw myself in some of those pictures, I threw them all away,” she shares with a sense of finality.
A Troubled Past
Christina’s journey into darkness began over a decade ago when she found herself trapped in an abusive relationship that spiraled into addiction. “The relationship that led me to prison was methamphetamine,” she reflects, revealing the struggles she faced during those tumultuous times. “I just didn’t think that life could be any different. I didn’t have any hope. I hoped that I would just die because I hated life.” It’s a haunting testament to the overwhelming despair she felt.
At the age of 25, Christina’s life took a drastic turn when she was arrested and sentenced to over three years in a West Virginia prison for federal drug conspiracy charges. “Finding my faith behind bars saved my life,” she explains with a newfound clarity. “I gave my life to the Lord, and it was like three years in prison of just getting to know Him, how to live in Christ, and Him showing me that life could be different.”
The Power of Community
After completing several residential drug and alcohol programs during her incarceration, Christina was released and moved to Knoxville. It was here that she discovered Hand Up For Women, a local nonprofit dedicated to aiding individuals grappling with addiction and abuse. “Essentially, it is a lifelong community of women,” she emphasizes, underscoring the importance of support from others who understand her struggles.
The connections she forged within this supportive environment have been transformative. However, the scars of her past still linger. With a felony record following her, Christina lost many of her rights, including the right to vote. Yet, her determination to rebuild her life didn’t waver. After navigating a complex application process, she successfully regained her voting rights and cast her ballot for the first time in 2020. “I just feel like it’s a duty,” she asserts passionately. “I think it’s easy to think, ‘What does my one vote mean?’ But at the end of the day, the Lord uses all the things—one vote, millions of votes, whatever it is. It’s just the faith behind what you’re doing.”
Embracing the Good Life
As Christina continues to make peace with her past, she focuses on what really matters—community and connection. “I just want to live in community with my family, our church, and our friends. I love being a part of Hand Up For Women and other people’s stories. That’s the good life for me,” she reflects with warmth.
Looking Towards the Future
Though the journey of restoration is ongoing, Christina remains hopeful and committed. Four years ago, she applied for a presidential pardon—another step in her continuous fight to have her rights fully restored. “I’m not sure if it will be granted, but I believe in the power of hope,” she confides.
Christina Duncan’s story is one of courage and transformation. With each step she takes toward healing, she serves as a beacon of hope for others who may be facing their battles. In a world where many take their rights and freedom for granted, her journey reminds us of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of believing that life can indeed be different.
