Marina’s Story

In the beginning of May, my journey started with a first-degree sales charge. I spent six months in jail, feeling lost and cut off from my family. I had never really believed in the Lord, but one day, while laying on my bunk, I realized I needed to change. My life was empty, and I was all alone.
At this point in time, my life was so dark. My husband’s involvement in a drive-by shooting led to him going to prison, and I lost my family. I turned to drugs as a way to cope. I became consumed by addiction, and I didn’t care about anything or anyone anymore. My way wasn’t working anymore.

So in that moment, I started praying, reaching out to the Lord, hoping for guidance. I asked Him for help because my life up to that point was spiraling, and I couldn’t continue down that path. I was desperate. I had a grandson and had barely seen my kids.

I heard about Mn Adult & Teen Challenge and decided to apply. I asked the judge to send me there, and he agreed, warning me that if I didn’t complete the program, I’d face a long prison sentence. At first, I thought I would do it just to prove the judge wrong, but something changed after a few months. It was a profound transformation.

I remember crying in the chapel, full of doubt and not wanting to give in. But I prayed to the Lord again, asking for His guidance. I realized I had to let go of my pride and started working on myself, not to prove anyone wrong, but for my own sake. And about six months into the program, I began to witness incredible miracles.

I started reconnecting with my kids, and my family began to return to my life. I even got to see my grandson more often. Miraculously, my husband found his way to the program as well.

I reached a breaking point one day when my daughter had a Quinceañera (a sweet 15), and I was in the program. I was ready to give up and go to prison if that’s what it took to be a part of this big day. I called my daughter, tears streaming down my face, and presented her with two options: I stay in the program and miss her event, or I leave. She chose for me, saying she wanted me to stay and complete the program. It was a moment that revealed a higher power at work because, before this journey, I had never believed in the Lord. This choice wasn’t just my daughter’s; it was divine intervention.

My time in the program also includes participating in the choir, something that has been truly transformative. Singing was never something I thought I could do. It helped me overcome anxiety and stage fright, making me a soloist. It’s a powerful experience, and when we sing, it’s not just our voices; it’s a connection, a unity that transcends our individual challenges.

The choir helps me heal, and every time I sing, I remember how great God is and how He saved me from the depths of despair. I feel His presence, guiding me through this journey. I love that the choir brings us together as one, despite our individual struggles.

To anyone entering the program who’s apprehensive, I’d say give it a try. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but it’s a chance to grow and find healing. Your anxiety and fears might just melt away, and it’s a beautiful experience.