Father Bill W.

Father Bill W.

Father Bill W.

  • Golden Oldie: Jung and Bill Wilson Letters

Golden Oldie: Jung and Bill Wilson Letters

Wednesday 6th November 2024

Dive into the deep connection between spirituality and addiction recovery with Fr. Bill W. and Jungian analyst David Schoen.
40 minutes
Inspiring
Informative
Hopeful
Supportive
Transformative

About this podcast

Father Bill W.
Overview:
Categories:
Religion & Spirituality
Spiritual & Personal Growth Journeys
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
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Exploring Spirituality and Addiction with Carl Jung's Letters

Episode Overview

  • Addiction involves deep spiritual elements beyond physical or mental issues.
  • Bill Wilson's correspondence with Carl Jung highlights the need for spiritual transformation.
  • Jung's concept of 'spiritus contra spiritum' suggests true spirituality counters addiction.
  • Community and fellowship are essential for successful recovery.
  • Understanding spirituality as universal helps individuals connect with their inner self.
The deepest urge of alcoholism is for wholeness and union with God.
Ever wondered about the deep, often hidden connections between spirituality and addiction recovery? In this episode of 'Father Bill W.', Fr. Bill dives into a fascinating conversation with Jungian analyst and author David Schoen. They explore the intriguing correspondence between AA founder Bill Wilson and the renowned psychologist Carl Jung. These letters, exchanged in the 1960s, reveal profound insights into the psychic elements of addiction and the spiritual journey necessary for recovery.
Schoen, author of 'The War of the Gods in Addiction', offers his expertise to dissect these letters, shedding light on how Jung's ideas about spiritual thirst and psychic change align with the principles of the 12-Step programme. Fr. Bill and David discuss how addiction is not just a physical or mental issue but a spiritual crisis that requires a deeper connection to one's inner self and a higher power.
They delve into the concept of 'spiritus contra spiritum' – the idea that true spiritual fulfilment can counteract the false idol of alcohol. Through personal anecdotes and scholarly insights, they illustrate how Jung’s understanding of spirituality as universal – whether one is religious, agnostic, or atheist – plays a crucial role in recovery. The conversation also touches on the importance of community and fellowship in the recovery process, emphasising that no one can overcome addiction alone.
If you’re looking to understand the deeper, often overlooked aspects of addiction and recovery, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to gain a fresh perspective on how spiritual practices can lead to profound transformation and lasting sobriety.