POWERLESS We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had

Recovery
#1

POWERLESS

We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable.
— TWELVE STEPS AND TWELVE TRADITIONS, p. 21

It is no coincidence that the very first Step mentions powerlessness: An admission of personal powerlessness over alcohol is a cornerstone of the foundation of recovery. I’ve learned that I do not have the power and control I once thought I had. I am powerless over what people think about me. I am powerless over having just missed the bus. I am powerless over how other people work (or don’t work) the Steps. But I’ve also learned I am not powerless over some things. I am not powerless over my attitudes. I am not powerless over negativity. I am not powerless over assuming responsibility for my own recovery. I have the power to exert a positive influence on myself, my loved ones, and the world in which I live.

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#2

Recognizing powerlessness is such a strong step forward. You’re building the foundation for something incredible.

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#3

When you admit that you're an alcoholic you're admitting that your life is phuqed up (unmanageable). It's when you don't realize that your life is phuqed up (unmanageable) that you're really phuqed up.

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#4

Where most people have a problem with the fourth, the first was my nemesis!!
Great post!!

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#5

Anthony... Very true. A lot of people tend to masterbate the 4th step and trip themselves up. When in reality it's pretty simple.

#6

I was stuck on the 4th for over a decade! LOL the list was extensive to say the least..:rofl::rofl:

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#7

Anthony... First off CONGRATULATIONS on 34 years.
You're not going to get at all on the first attempt however, if your like me we want to be through from the very start. What branch? What unit? Any theaters?
I facilitate a step 1-8 workshop at the AA club I fellowship at. The steps are designed to be real simple. Take them at face value and do not masterbate them in your head.

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#8

Very Sound Advice my friend!. Me being who, and what I am, I've always had a tendency to seek out the more difficult and tedious path, avoiding simplicity at every turn, even though the program demands it!.. I must say it almost got me in a bit of trouble at times, but certain tools in my box, and a few overused cliches that I didn't give enough Merit to, helped pull me back to surface...

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