The third step in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a crucial moment of truth that symbolizes a profound shift in perspective and approach to living life. Step Three is about releasing control and entrusting one's life and sobriety to a higher power – be it spiritual, familial, or divine. This decision marks the beginning of a new chapter in recovery, where the alcoholic surrenders the struggle to maintain independence and instead finds support and guidance in a power greater than oneself.
Understanding AA Step 3
In step three, the AA member makes a conscious choice to give up the notion of personal autonomy and to trust in a power greater than their own willpower. This higher power could be understood as a divine force, a spiritual guide, or simply the collective consciousness of the recovering community. The step encourages humility and open-mindedness as the member begins the journey of relying on a higher power for guidance and strength.
How AA Step 3 fits into the Big Book
According to the AA Big Book, step three is about making a decision to surrender one's life to a "power greater than ourselves," which may include gratitude to a higher power for helping to accomplish the task of achieving sobriety. The Big Book likens this process to the process of turning an ancient scroll, which only with the help of a higher power can be unrolled completely.
Benefits of AA Step 3
Step three offers numerous benefits for the alcoholic in recovery. By giving up control, the individual is able to experience a sense of relief from the burdensome expectations of carrying the burden of their own problems alone. The step also encourages humility, leading to a deeper sense of personal accountability. Furthermore, by trusting in a higher power, the alcoholic gains access to a supportive network, including fellow recovery companions, members of Al-Anon and Alateen programs, and ultimately, the larger AA community.
Foundation of the Twelve Steps
While AA describes its program as non-religious, it is strongly rooted in the belief in a higher power. This higher power is viewed as an impersonal force, such as the natural environment or the collective consciousness of those who have experienced addiction. However, the AA experience has been criticized for not being inclusive to people of various religious backgrounds, leading some to seek other recovery programs that align better with their beliefs.
What ThisMeans For You
When working through each of the 12 steps, it's important to remember that it is a process that takes time and that step three is just one part of this journey. By surrendering to a higher power, you can gain a clearer picture of what you'll need to do to stay sober while feeling supported through this process. As you navigate this step, remember that it is okay to take breaks, be human, and practice willpower gradually.
##AA Step 3 is a powerful step in the journey toward recovery from alcoholism. It represents a complete shift in mindset, where the alcoholic releases the need for independence and instead finds guidance and strength in a higher power. By taking this step, the alcoholic sets the stage for a lifetime of sobriety and empowerment through a combination of self-reflection, community support, and a deepening of faith in a higher power.