PRACTICING THE PRINCIPLES OF 12-STEP RECOVERY IN ALL OUR AFFAIRS

The Twelve Step Recovery program extends beyond simply not using drugs or alcohol. It is a guide for living that delivers happiness, joyousness, and freedom to those who apply it to their lives. If we are to overcome our fears and live in a state of spiritual fitness, we must practice the principles of recovery in every aspect of our lives.

The 12th Step states: “Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.” Alcoholics Anonymous Cleveland explains that the principles we are suggested to adhere to coincide with the steps: Hope, faith, courage, integrity, willingness, humility, love, discipline, patience, awareness, and service. However, they point out that, “There are many different spiritual virtue lists that refer to the Twelve Steps which have been printed by other AA’s over the years. Although used by many AA members, they are not Conference Approved and the origin of these lists are unknown.” Regardless of the various specifications about spiritual principles, the point is that we do our best to live as we feel our Higher Power has intended. This means a life free of selfish and self-seeking motives, as well as a focus on helping others. We recognize that an understanding of the spiritual life is not enough for us, we have to live it.

Through working the steps and incorporating them into our lives, we begin to feel a spiritual connection that allows us to live in a manner that allows us to continually grow on a personal and spiritual level. We do everything we can on a day-to-day basis to help others. The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous explains, “Our book is meant to be suggestive only. We realize we know only a little. God will constantly disclose more to you and to us. Ask Him in your morning meditation what you can do each day for the man who is still sick. The answers will come, if your own house is in order. But obviously you cannot transmit something you haven’t got. See to it that your relationship with Him is right, and great events will come to pass for you and countless others. This is the Great Fact for us.”

Treatment should be stress free. That’s why we offer comprehensive evaluations, personalized assessments, and individual treatment programs. We’re more than treatment. We’re a community committed to sobriety. Call Anchored Recovery Community today for more information: 866-934-4849