12 Steps to Recovery: The Second Step

Last month's newsletter article summarized the first step of the 12 steps to Recovery. Remember that these twelve steps are intended to be worked with a sponsor or counselor to keep the emphasis on working the steps one day at a time. This month we move on to step 2. "The Big Book" of Alcoholics Anonymous lists the second step from the original Twelve Steps as "We came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity."

Step 2 is described for us in "A Companion for Twelve Step Recovery", p. 29, as a process and progression of faith that evolves over time. Taking the phrase apart and looking at the words, "we came to believe" takes us to the A.A.'s oral tradition that describes a three-part unfolding: First, we came, that is, we showed up and stumbled in the door. Second, we came to, that is, we sobered up, came to our senses, and began to experience emotional sobriety. Third, we came to believe. We began our real recovery process and our spiritual growth through the simple act of believing.

Step 2 makes it clear that there really are only two alternatives: stay on the stuff or look to God. Whether agnostic, atheist, former or current believer, we all stand together on this second Step. We need ask ourselves only one question. - "Do I now believe, or am I even willing to believe, that there is a Power greater than myself?" As soon as we can say that we do believe, or are willing to believe, we are definitely on the way. We are stating that probably no human power can relieve our addiction, but that God can and will if we seek Him.

In summary, Step 2 is a step of hope, faith and realization. It is a big step toward God and toward healing. No matter what the difficulties, there is hope because there is a Power greater than ourselves who can supersede our abilities and efforts. This Power can restore our lives to a world where there is freedom from the insanity of addictive behaviors.

"On my own, I can do nothing, but I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:12-13.

This summary was written by the Faith Partners group of Wimberley United Methodist Church. It is part of a continuing series of articles on each of the twelve steps.