Creating Space for Secular Sobriety in the Bible Belt: Andrew's Story
I think the program is almost better designed for atheists when you get down to it, because it's cause and effect from our actions.
Ever wondered how someone can start a secular AA meeting in the heart of America's Bible Belt? Meet Andrew A. from Oklahoma City, who did just that. In this episode of 'Beyond Belief Sobriety', host John S. chats with Andrew about his journey to create a welcoming space for atheists and non-religious individuals seeking recovery in a region known for its religious conservatism.
Andrew opens up about the hurdles he faced, from societal pushback to finding like-minded individuals, and how he navigated these challenges with determination and empathy. He also dives into the benefits of exercising the frontal cortex for spiritual or emotional growth, the complexities of prayer and obsessive thinking in addiction recovery, and how drug addiction impacts AA meetings.
The conversation doesn't shy away from the intricate relationship between AA and Christianity, the value of incorporating diverse literature into meetings, and the unique experiences of being an atheist in AA. Andrew's candid storytelling offers a fresh perspective on the many paths to sobriety, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and honesty in recovery. Tune in to hear how Andrew's experiences might inspire you to explore new avenues on your own journey towards a better life.