Some thoughts on the Steps
1. The Steps
as outlined in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous (and as
amplified in the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions) may be ‘taken’ or ‘worked’
or ‘lived’ on a variety of levels.
a. The
intellectual level: the Steps appeal to reason and rationality. They
describe the causes of a three fold addiction whose symptoms are physical,
mental and spiritual in nature. A clear solution is presented. A detailed
course of action is outlined. As objections tot the A.A. analysis of alcoholism
arise, the Steps deal wit them in a calm, orderly fashion. Both Bill Wilson and
Dr. Bob Smith were New England Yankees - heirs of a long tradition that valued
science and reason. You are invited to respond to each step by saying to
yourself: this makes sense.
b. The
emotional level: as we journey through the steps, as we start to
listen to the experience of other AA members and as we begin to glimpse the
richness of our Program B we are moved in our heart/emotions. We begin to feel
the Steps at work in our lives. You are now invited to respond to each Step by
saying: this feels right.
c. The
spiritual level: reason has it’s limits and emotions are subject to
change. Therefore at some stage of our recovery journey we discover the bedrock
of our Steps and program B the spiritual realm. It is for this reason that we
read over and over again in our literature that the purpose of the Steps is to
help you find and develop a relationship with a God of your own understanding.
This is the level which the Big Book calls our innermost selves. At this level
you know/feel/believe and experience the reality of the Steps. You are at peace
with yourself and the world. You begin to see the vast difference between just
being dry and living sober. You cross the bridge from the Fellowship to the
Program. You experience -- perhaps for the first time…serenity.
2. The Steps
are a journey and a process - not a goal or destination. The Big Book
and the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions reminds us often that
recovery is a life long adventure.
3. While the
Steps present what might seem to you exalted and lofty ideals - perhaps beyond
human achievement - we are assured that our task is simply to work toward these
goals/ideals. Recovery is not an invitation to perfectionism. If
necessary read and reread the paragraph immediately following Step 12 and How
It Works (p. 60).
4. The Steps
are in order for a reason. They are linked and really do depend upon moving
from Steps 1 to 12 in sequence.
5. Pray daily
for God’s guidance as you move through the Steps. If you are an atheist - pray.
If you are agnostic - pray. If you have a God of your understanding - pray. If
prayer and a Higher Power are serious obstacles to working the Steps - discuss
this with your step advisor. He or she will know what to do to help you
overcome this difficulty.