I am learning but still so lost.

I have a Chinese table top cnc machine.that  have had it for a year and not been able to get it working.  Did replace the ball nut on the x axis as it was broken in shipment.  I am trying to use linuxcnc got it loaded and running but cannot get things to work at all.  When I plug the serial cable into the machine the stepper motors are energized meaning I cannot turn them by hand.  I am asking so many questions, that I am embarrassed.
I am so lost and need help.  Please can someone help me, a telephone call would be great.  I am 70 years old
and really needed help as i am wheel chair bound.  Thanks for listening to my rant.
charlie79329@....