TWELVE STEP GUIDE TO PERMANENT RECOVERY
The road to recovery consists of three main parts.
Body, Mind and Spirit. The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous tells us “when the spiritual malady is overcome, we straighten out mentally and physically.” It also informs us the main problem for the alcoholic, centers in the mind and not the body. It’s the mind that takes us back to that which is killing us, and the only remedy is having the necessary vital spiritual experience. The twelve steps are our vehicle to access the Power vital to permanent recovery.
Following the directions in the Big Book will also allow us to incorporate spiritual principles, and develop sober living skills for full and abundant lives.
This Big Book consists of promises, warning, considerations and the remedy to alcoholism.
As we move through the twelve steps, we will experience the freedom of bondage of self to being recovered from a seemingly hopeless state of mind and body.
Step one: Identify the problem
Step two: Points to the solution (God)
Step three: Make a decision to take the action to experience the solution
Step four: Personal inventory of the past. Resentment, fear and sex inventory
Step five: Discussion of inventory with sponsor
Step six and seven: To be rid of defects (obstacles) blocking us from God
Step eight: Make a list of amends to be made
Step nine: Make amends to those I have harmed, except when to do so would injure them or others
Step ten: Entered the World of the Spirit
Step eleven: The practice of prayer and meditation and continuing to seek God
Step twelve: Carry this message to others who still suffer and practice these principles in all our affairs
In love and service the road to recovery begins NOW!
So while some may have contempt prior to investigation, the question we ask ourselves do I have this same sentiment with regards to the Big Book and the 12 steps. Based on what we have been doing without this remedy how has that been working for you?
The disease of alcoholism wants alcoholics dead but will settle for them drunk. Does the alcoholic really have the luxury have waiting?
Blessing, Chop wood, carry water
Peter Marinelli