DanielleC's Journey: From Darkness to Light with AA's Steps
As much as I put on this like, oh, I'm, you know this selfless person that wants to help you. You know, I, I am very much that person, but most of the time I'm thinking of what I can get out of out of the show.
Ever wondered how someone can turn their life around after hitting rock bottom? DanielleC’s story is a testament to the transformative power of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and its 12 steps. Growing up as an only child in a dark and lonely environment, DanielleC found solace in alcohol and substances, which eventually led her down a path of self-destruction. But when she reached her lowest point, she discovered AA and a fellowship that would change her life forever.
Initially, DanielleC struggled to fit into the program. She saw hope in the eyes of those who had achieved sobriety but couldn't find it within herself. With the guidance of her sponsor and the unwavering support of fellow alcoholics, she began to work through the steps. Step 3 was particularly significant for her. It taught her to create space between her thoughts and reactions, helping her overcome selfishness.
As she puts it, 'I'm constantly thinking about myself, constantly thinking about what I'm gonna get out of the show, how I should be treated if you would only do it my way, but I have the greatest intentions. I have a thought, I react, and step three for me is: how do I create space between those two lines?'
Another pivotal moment for DanielleC was Step 9, which involved making amends and positively impacting others' lives.
Through this step, she was able to help a friend who had suffered a great loss and begin repairing relationships she had damaged in the past. She reflects, 'And it's experiences like that where I have no idea what's actually happening. I get an alternative perspective, or I can sit in my shit all day long and believe the delusion.
This idea that helping someone else is the answer was really like I did not understand how being in heartbreak, helping someone else is going to help me.'
DanielleC’s journey is a powerful reminder of the redemptive power of AA and its 12 steps. Her story shows that through fellowship and dedication to the program, it's possible to find hope, redemption, and a new way of living.