The Hidden Risks of Step Thirteen: A Candid Discussion
The essential ingredients of recovery are rigorous honesty, humility, open-mindedness, and willingness.
Ever heard of '13th stepping' in 12-step programs? It's not an official part of the AA curriculum, but it can be a real issue. In this episode of 'Take 12 Recovery Radio', Monty Dale Meyer, affectionately known as the Monty'man, teams up with Bruce H. and Roger M. to unpack the complexities surrounding Step Thirteen.
They dive into how this term describes when someone with more than a year of sobriety hits on someone with less than a year, creating a risky power imbalance. Melody Anderson, a therapist specializing in addiction, highlights that this dynamic can endanger both parties' sobriety and isn't confined to any specific gender or sexual orientation. The conversation doesn't stop there. Monty and his co-hosts stress the importance of rigorous honesty and maintaining healthy boundaries throughout recovery.
They discuss how the steps are designed to prepare individuals to be of maximum service to others and emphasize that sobriety is just one benefit of this journey. Spirituality also takes center stage, with discussions on how honesty, humility, open-mindedness, and willingness are crucial ingredients for long-term recovery. To wrap things up, they play Michale Purington's song 'New-Comers In Love', adding a musical touch to the episode.
If you're navigating the waters of recovery or know someone who is, this episode offers valuable insights into the lesser-known challenges that can arise.