Step Eleven
1.
Read: Big Book (pp 58-60)
2.
Read: Big Book (p. 85-88)
3.
Step Eleven (p. 59) tells us that we need to:
a.
(seek) (an action)
b.
through prayer & meditation (as defined on
pp. 85-88)
c.
to improve (a process)
d.
our conscious contact (our awareness of the relationship)
e.
with God as we understand God (as in Step Three)
f.
praying only for two things:
1.
the knowledge of Gods will for us
2.
the power to carry out Gods will for us
4.
Some A.A.s are baffled by the whole concept of prayer
and meditation. They decide to by-pass this Step altogether. Remember that here
as in all the Steps we aim at progress not perfection. This Step
like all the other Steps was written by alcoholics for alcoholics.
If they could figure out what to do so can you.
5.
This Step clearly shows the influence of the Oxford Group
movement on the development of A.A. sprirituality. There is a rich literature on
this topic that you might like to explore.
6.
On thing is clear: daily prayer and meditation was a central
feature of early A.A. practice. We just saw in Step Ten that we are not
cured. We have only a daily reprieve that depends upon our maintaining a close
relationship with our Higher Power. Step Eleven has this as its central focus.
7.
On of the first signs of relapse is the neglect of daily
prayer and meditation.
8.
The directions for this step are very clear (pp. 85-88) Several
periods of prayer are suggested deaily, together with a daily meditation
period. We are also told what to do in the course of our day if we are upset or
in doubt. Two exercises:
a.
Count the number of specific prayers in Step Eleven (pp.
85-88)
b.
Identify the Eleventh Step promises? (p. 88)
9.
When you think that you understand what Step Eleven is
asking of you and you are ready to carry out this part of our program of action
to the best of your abilities go on to Step Twelve.