The "Sick Man's Prayer" is a phrase that has become iconic within the context of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), a 12-step program designed to help individuals overcome alcoholism. The phrase is often used as a reminder of the patience, tolerance, and compassion that should be shown to oneself and others, especially those who are struggling with addiction.
The origins of the phrase "Sick Man's Prayer" can be traced back to the 12 steps of AA, which were established by the inventor of the program, Alcoholics Anonymous, in the 1930s. The steps encourage members to seek God's help and admit their power over alcohol, recognizing that they are ill and unable to control their behavior without divine intervention.
According to AA literature, the "Sick Man's Prayer" is a direct reference to the eleventh step of the AA program, which states how a recovered person should treat themselves, which is with love and forgiveness, rather than self-hatred or criticism. This step emphasizes the importance of treating oneself with kindness and understanding, acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes and has imperfections.
The phrase "Sick Man's Prayer" is also often used in recovery circles to remind members of the Program to approach others with empathy and understanding, recognizing that many alcoholics are struggling with their illness and may not be acting out of malice but rather from a place of pain or misunderstanding. This perspective helps to create a more compassionate and supportive environment within recovery communities., the "Sick Man's Prayer" is a powerful metaphor within the context of AA that emphasizes the importance of compassion, patience, and understanding in the recovery process. By treating ourselves and others with kindness and forgiveness, we can begin to understand the struggle with addiction and find the support and healing we need to achieve long-term sobriety.