Joe Hawk's Deep Dive into AA's Fourth Step: Confronting Resentments and Embracing Change
That maybe lack of power is your problem and you need some power to live by, just to live. And I think in those first two steps we eliminated as many options as we still have and we all have our own number of options.
Joe Hawk takes us back to 1987 at the Salvation Army in Santa Monica, where he’s knee-deep in his recovery journey. This episode captures week seven of his twelve-week series, focusing on the formidable fourth step of Alcoholics Anonymous. Joe doesn't sugarcoat it; the fourth step is all about taking a hard look at yourself through a fearless moral inventory. It's not for the faint-hearted, but Joe’s reflections make it clear why it's so crucial.
He starts by connecting the dots between the first three steps and the fourth, emphasizing that recognizing our own limitations and the need for a higher power sets the stage for this deep self-examination. Joe shares his own struggles and triumphs with the fourth step, giving listeners a roadmap to navigate their own moral inventories. He breaks down the process into manageable parts, discussing the three columns of the inventory and how to turn negative statements into positive growth opportunities.
Facing fears, understanding belief systems, and recognizing our part in resentments are all part of the journey. Joe wraps up with a powerful reminder of the role of prayer in finding freedom and moving forward. This episode is a must-listen for anyone grappling with the fourth step or looking for inspiration to push through their own recovery challenges.