Iron Mountain Cosmetologist Shares Her Journey from Motorcycle Club Life to Divine Redemption
Deborah Mckinzie, a cosmetologist from Iron Mountain, has recently published a book titled “Property of the King,” in which she chronicles her personal transformation from a life of fast living and being her husband’s “possession” in the motorcycle club world to finding divine redemption. Through her story, Mckinzie aims to inspire others and offer a message of hope in a broken world. This article delves into the details of her journey, highlighting the challenges she faced and the lessons she learned along the way.
A Love for Adventure and New Beginnings
Mckinzie, a 1988 graduate of Iron Mountain High School, has always had a love for adventure and trying new things. From opening a boutique to pursuing photography and even ultra running, she has embraced a spirit of constant motion. Writing a book was just another challenge she was eager to take on. Reflecting on her high school years, Mckinzie humorously wonders what her English teachers would think of her now.
From Cosmetology to Motherhood
Following in her aunt’s footsteps, Mckinzie pursued a career in cosmetology, inspired by her aunt’s independence and success. However, her life took an unexpected turn when she became pregnant and welcomed her son, Alex. Despite the challenges of young motherhood, Mckinzie cherished her role as a mother. However, after a few years of marriage, she and her first husband decided to part ways.
A Fateful Encounter and the Dark Path
Twenty-seven years ago, Mckinzie met her current husband, John, at a hair show. John’s love for motorcycles was evident from the start, as his Harley-Davidson was the first thing he unloaded from the U-haul upon arriving in Iron Mountain. Seeking more structure and commitment, John joined a local motorcycle group, eventually leading them down a dark path when they were approached by a national motorcycle club. Mckinzie shares her experiences as her husband’s “old lady” in this hierarchy-driven world and the struggles they faced in their marriage during that time.
Awakening to the Truth
After years of living in this dark lifestyle, Mckinzie began to see the sins for what they truly were. Through introspection and spending time alone in nature, she could no longer deny the truth. God was removing the scales from her eyes, and she realized that she needed to make a change. Despite the difficulty of leaving behind the power and enjoyment she found in that sinful life, Mckinzie experienced a profound transformation on Easter Sunday in 2017.
A Journey of Redemption
On that fateful day, Mckinzie’s life changed forever. Overwhelmed with emotion, she couldn’t stop crying as she felt the presence of God in her life. From that moment on, she made the decision to walk away from the motorcycle club lifestyle, burning anything that connected her to that world. However, her husband wasn’t ready to let go just yet. It took another year for God to work in his heart, leading to a transformation that would forever alter their lives.
From Anger to Redemption
Initially, Mckinzie’s intention for writing her book was fueled by anger, disgust, shame, and guilt. She wanted to expose the club and everyone involved, regardless of the consequences. However, as her heart softened, she realized that her story was about her personal transformation and God’s redeeming love. The words began to flow, and she couldn’t stop writing. The title of her book, “Property of the King,” was suggested by her pastor, Reverend Alex Tunnicliff.
Conclusion:
Deborah Mckinzie’s book, “Property of the King,” is a testament to the power of transformation and redemption. Through her personal journey, she offers hope to those who may feel trapped in their own sins or struggles. Mckinzie emphasizes that her story is not meant to condemn all motorcycle clubs or motorcyclists but rather to share her own experiences and the lessons she has learned. With her husband’s unwavering support, Mckinzie plans to continue writing and hopes to travel across the country, sharing their story and inspiring others along the way.
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