Father Bill W.: A Journey Through Sobriety and the 12 Steps
To me, the steps, particularly the fifth chapter of the big book, is a master plan for transformation, and what really is about is learning how to live a guided life, how to listen to god, how to be in conscious contact with god and how to carry that into my life in areas where god may be guiding me to go.
Imagine battling alcoholism for decades and emerging not just sober, but spiritually enriched. That’s the story of Father Bill W., an Episcopal priest who’s been in recovery since 1972. In this bonus episode, Father Bill opens up about his personal journey to sobriety and offers a fresh perspective on the 12-Step Program. He dives into the often-overlooked 11th Step practice of Two Way Prayer, a spiritual exercise that transformed his own recovery process.
Father Bill doesn’t just recount his story; he shares the wisdom he’s gleaned from studying the history of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). He explains how understanding the Oxford Group's influence on AA's steps reshaped his approach to recovery. For anyone feeling powerless or hopeless, his insights into the first step can be particularly enlightening. The episode also touches on practical elements like morning meditation and overcoming character defects.
Father Bill describes the 12-Step Program as a 'master plan for transformation', offering listeners a blueprint for their own journeys. Whether you’re new to sobriety, a seasoned veteran of the 12 Steps, or simply curious about spiritual practices in recovery, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.
So, if you’re looking for inspiration and practical advice on living a guided life, tune in to hear Father Bill’s story and discover how the 12-Step Program can be a path to both sobriety and spiritual growth.