I'm new to Alanon/ACOA and I've heard the phrase in my home meeting, "I've been working the steps," and was curious what this meant. Does it mean different things to different people? What types of things are considered working the steps? When do you know you are REALLY working the steps versus just kind of skimming along?
Any insight on this would be appreciated!
BLUECLOUD
KathyS said
Oct 11, 2005
Good questions, and one I'm sure many newcomers have. Most of us when we first come to this program have no idea that *we* are supposed to get a sponsor and work the steps. I know I sure didn't. I always thought that step stuff was only for the addict.
A sponsor is someone who has alot of program experience, has found serenity through this program regardless of what her alcoholic/addict is or isn't doing, has learned how to trust her Higher Power, and has worked the 12 steps herself with her own sponsor. That person can help you work through the steps, all twelve of them.
The steps are the same for all, but some prefer to do the step work differently. I for one, when I sponsor someone I use the Big Book of AA as a basis for step work for each step. Thought provoking questions, (lots of them) questions that force you to focus on yourself, your motives, your thoughts.....You You You instead of on your addicted loved one.
You'll know that you are really working the steps once you are doing it with an experienced sponsor. You'll know because you'll see and feel the changes in yourself, your mindset, your peace level, your acceptance of things you cannot change nor control. Your life will become more manageable, and even happy!
jj said
Oct 11, 2005
Blue Cloud,
In the beginning I was confused as to what I was supposed to do. Kathy siad it great!!
A friend sent me a good 12 step workbook which has alot of thoes questions in it.
I will add it as an attachment to this I hope it works... If not contact me and I will e-mail it to you.
I'm new to Alanon/ACOA and I've heard the phrase in my home meeting, "I've been working the steps," and was curious what this meant. Does it mean different things to different people? What types of things are considered working the steps? When do you know you are REALLY working the steps versus just kind of skimming along?
Any insight on this would be appreciated!
BLUECLOUD
Good questions, and one I'm sure many newcomers have. Most of us when we first come to this program have no idea that *we* are supposed to get a sponsor and work the steps. I know I sure didn't. I always thought that step stuff was only for the addict.
A sponsor is someone who has alot of program experience, has found serenity through this program regardless of what her alcoholic/addict is or isn't doing, has learned how to trust her Higher Power, and has worked the 12 steps herself with her own sponsor. That person can help you work through the steps, all twelve of them.
The steps are the same for all, but some prefer to do the step work differently. I for one, when I sponsor someone I use the Big Book of AA as a basis for step work for each step. Thought provoking questions, (lots of them) questions that force you to focus on yourself, your motives, your thoughts.....You You You instead of on your addicted loved one.
You'll know that you are really working the steps once you are doing it with an experienced sponsor. You'll know because you'll see and feel the changes in yourself, your mindset, your peace level, your acceptance of things you cannot change nor control. Your life will become more manageable, and even happy!
Blue Cloud,
In the beginning I was confused as to what I was supposed to do. Kathy siad it great!!
A friend sent me a good 12 step workbook which has alot of thoes questions in it.
I will add it as an attachment to this I hope it works... If not contact me and I will e-mail it to you.
JJ