“Came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.”
—The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous
So you’ve admitted that you’re powerless over alcohol or other substances, and your life has become unmanageable. Now what?
The relief that comes with admitting defeat in Step One can often turn to an overwhelming sense of fear and vulnerability. For many addicts and alcoholics, powerless is not a comfortable place to be.
Luckily, as always, the steps offer a solution. Moving on to Step Two starts the process of learning to depend upon a Higher Power for guidance and protection.
First of all, Step Two begins with “came to believe,” meaning the process of accepting a Higher Power does not have to happen overnight. It’s a process, and like everything else in sobriety, you can be patient and let it unfold.
Second, it’s important to note that Step Two doesn’t say “came to believe in God.” The fellowships all offer a lot of leeway for each individual member to determine their own conception of a Higher Power. For some, that might be God. For others, it might be their home group. There’s even an old AA story about one man who used to carry around a football named HP! What’s important is that you find something outside of yourself to rely on and trust.
Once you’re open to the possibility of a power like that working in your life, you can take the leap to believing that whatever that power is, it’s powerful enough to do the unthinkable: to end the insanity of your life as an active addict or alcoholic, and to bring you a life of serenity and peace.
Countless people have taken this step before you, and been restored. To find out more about how, contact us at Clean Path Behavioral Health. Our programs are closely entwined with the 12 Steps fellowships, and many of our staff are members themselves. Click here to find out how we can help you.