Chris R.'s Journey: Secular Sobriety in Japan
I almost never experienced any anxiety, it's, it's very strange, I think.
Imagine growing up in a temperance colony in Canada, only to find yourself immersed in Japan's permissive drinking culture. That's the backdrop for Chris R.'s compelling story on this episode of Beyond Belief Sobriety. Raised as the son of an Anglican priest, Chris started drinking as a teenager under the tight grip of legal restrictions.
His move to Japan in 1985 as an exchange student turned out to be a pivotal moment in his life, as he found himself battling alcohol addiction in a society with very different attitudes towards drinking. Chris takes listeners through his journey of finding AA meetings in Japan and the unique challenges he faced as a secular member in a predominantly Christian fellowship.
He opens up about the impact of spirituality in AA and how the secular movement and agnostic AA have played a crucial role in his recovery. His story is raw and honest, shedding light on the difficulties and triumphs of maintaining sobriety in a foreign land. Throughout the episode, Chris discusses his experiences with anxiety and how his journey to sobriety has transformed his life.
He offers valuable insights into the customs and habits of AA, particularly how they can be challenging for free thinkers. The episode wraps up with a thought-provoking discussion on the empowerment found through secular recovery, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in alternative paths to sobriety. Whether you're navigating your own recovery journey or supporting someone who is, Chris's story offers a unique perspective on overcoming addiction without traditional religious frameworks.
Tune in for an inspiring and eye-opening conversation that challenges conventional recovery paradigms.