Joe Hawk on Healing Through Amends in AA Recovery
I think when I started making amends- and whenever I make amends I really see the power of the first eight steps, because all of a sudden I'm approaching people- that when I was writing about them in inventory, there's no way I had the power to go to them.
Picture this: Joe Hawk standing in front of a room full of people at the Salvation Army in Santa Monica, CA, back in 1987. It's week ten of a twelve-week series, and Joe is sharing some deeply personal insights on the importance of making amends in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) recovery. In this episode of 'Mad Dog Recovery AA Speakers', Joe dives into how the first eight steps are crucial in setting the stage for making amends and moving forward.
He stresses that the journey begins with letting go of any lingering doubts or reservations about sobriety. Joe believes that fully committing to the recovery process is essential, and that means accepting you don't need alcohol to deal with life's challenges. He also talks about the power of prayer and trust when it comes to making amends. Approaching someone you've wronged can be daunting, but Joe emphasizes that trusting what comes through prayer can lead to positive outcomes.
Through his own experiences, Joe has found that making amends not only helps heal relationships but also leads to significant self-discovery. By facing those he had hurt, he was able to confront his own character flaws and work towards becoming a better person. This process brought him emotional and spiritual growth, along with a newfound sense of peace and serenity.
If you're looking for inspiration and practical advice on how to make amends in your own recovery journey, this episode is a must-listen. Joe Hawk's reflections offer a powerful reminder that with commitment, prayer, and trust, transformative healing is possible.