Embracing Faith: Overcoming Obstacles in Recovery
Episode Overview
Understanding the importance of believing in a higher power. Overcoming obstacles like scepticism and prejudice. The significance of spiritual experiences in recovery. Practical steps outlined in the Big Book for effective recovery. The role of open-mindedness in embracing spiritual principles.
'Do I now believe, or am I willing to believe, that there is a power greater than myself?'
In this session of the 'Purpose of this Book - Intensive Big Book Study', the group dives deep into Chapter 4, 'We Agnostics', from page 47 to page 49. The discussion kicks off with the critical question: 'Do I now believe, or am I willing to believe, that there is a power greater than myself?' This question serves as a cornerstone for spiritual growth and recovery, marking the transition to the second step in the Big Book's programme.
The hosts, David G, Mark B, Minor A, and Nance F, share their experiences and reflections on overcoming scepticism and embracing faith. The episode explores the obstacles many face when accepting spiritual principles, such as obstinacy and unreasoning prejudice. The hosts candidly discuss their own struggles with these barriers and how they eventually found open-mindedness towards spiritual matters. The conversation is peppered with personal anecdotes, making the heavy topics more relatable and engaging.
David G highlights the importance of spiritual experiences, referring to specific pages in the Big Book where these are elaborated. He emphasises that believing or being willing to believe in a higher power is a significant step towards recovery. The hosts also touch on the concept of spiritual awakening and how it transforms one's approach to life and relationships. The episode is not just about theory; it's action-oriented.
The hosts stress that the Big Book provides clear, practical steps for recovery. They compare this to learning a martial art—it's about practising specific actions rather than merely understanding concepts. David G even brings a bit of humour into the discussion by referencing his 'spiritual guru Yoda' from Star Wars, underscoring that this journey is both profound and practical.
If you're grappling with faith or seeking to deepen your understanding of the Big Book's teachings, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in to hear real-life experiences that can help you on your path to recovery.