Spirituality in AA

[Larrylive]

Originally Posted by MajestyJo

We have to find our own understanding of God and build a relationship, not put someone else down because they don't believe the same as we do.

I almost agree.

Where I see the problem is in the word "find'. Seems to me (IMHO) the the program was crafted at a time when most people had an understanding, they did not need to "develope" one. This takes time and effort. 2 things the hopeless addict/alcohol can't or won't afford. I used the word "hopeless", well, because the big book does. And now I have confounded the topic.

So, in order to assist/promote/provide with the program and aid in developing and understanding would be helpful. This reqiures dialogue. Limiting this discussion to ones sponsor results in one piont of view. Therefor in order to keep with the unaffiliated tenets multiple understandings should be considered. Surely the newcomer is lacking in the sound descision department, and we wouldn't really want them turning their will and their lives over to the care of a doorknob, would we?

It has also occured to me that, upon making a 12th step call, should the person want what we have to offer, after hearing our story, steps 1,2 & 3 should be finished before the end of the conversation. With step 4 explained and the choice of "shall we keep going or continue in the morning?"

I hold these views, as I was a "hopeless" case and nothing, save God, could have relieve my addiction. Some fare well with chit-chat ie; sponsors and meetings, I on the other hand needed something a little more drastic, a conversion, a spiritual awakening.

I guess what I am trying to say is.......
If you have been in and out of the program for as long as I was, give yourself a break and ask God for help, you don't even need an understanding, all you have to do is believe.

Be Well
Larry