Reimagining the 12 Steps: John C.'s Secular Insights
I think putting four through nine in order is probably a rather good idea, but what people were doing was much more reckless and impulsive.
Have you ever felt that the 12 Steps of AA are more of a checklist than a journey? In this episode of Beyond Belief Sobriety, John C. from Berkeley, California, takes a critical look at the traditional approach to the 12 Steps. John shares his thoughts on how these steps, meant to be deeply personal and experiential, often turn into academic exercises for many in AA.
He questions the idea of 'finishing' the Steps and challenges the notion of a clear beginning and end. For instance, how does one truly 'finish' Step One? John’s perspective is both refreshing and thought-provoking, shedding light on how a secular approach can make these steps more meaningful. He also dives into the value of shared experiences and the pitfalls of relying too heavily on Zoom meetings for support.
Additionally, John touches on the problematic hierarchy within AA and offers alternative versions of the Steps that might resonate more with those seeking a non-religious path to recovery. This episode is perfect for anyone curious about different ways to approach the 12 Steps and looking for a fresh take on addiction recovery.