Step 11 in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is an important part of the recovery process for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. It states, “Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.” This step focuses on deepening one's spirituality and connection with a higher power.
The first part of Step 11 talks about seeking improvement in our conscious contact with God. This implies that individuals in recovery should actively work towards strengthening their relationship with their higher power. This can be done through prayer and meditation. Prayer is the act of communicating with a higher power, while meditation involves quieting the mind and focusing inwardly.
For many people in AA, their higher power is God. However, it is important to note that the program is open to individuals of all faiths or those who may not subscribe to any specific religious belief. The phrase “as we understood Him” acknowledges that everyone's concept of a higher power may differ. It is a personal and individualized belief system that guides each person's recovery journey.
In seeking to improve conscious contact with a higher power, individuals are encouraged to pray for knowledge of their higher power's will for them. This means asking for guidance and direction in their lives, particularly when facing challenges or making important decisions. It is an acknowledgment that we, as individuals, do not always have the answers and that seeking divine guidance can provide clarity and wisdom.
Additionally, individuals are encouraged to pray for the power to carry out their higher power's will. This highlights the importance of relying on a higher power's strength and support to overcome obstacles and live a fulfilling life in recovery. It is an acknowledgment of our own limitations and a willingness to surrender control to a higher power.
To practice Step 11, individuals engage in regular prayer and meditation. This can be done in various ways, depending on personal preferences and beliefs. Some may choose to pray and meditate privately at home, while others may find solace in attending religious services or participating in group meditation sessions. The important aspect is to make a conscious effort to connect with a higher power regularly.
Prayer and meditation can have numerous benefits for individuals in recovery. They provide a sense of peace, inner reflection, and a deeper connection with oneself and one's spirituality. It allows individuals to quiet the noise of their thoughts and find solace in the present moment. Many people find that through prayer and meditation, they are able to gain insights, find solutions to problems, and experience a sense of serenity.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have witnessed the transformative power of Step 11 in the lives of those in recovery. I have seen individuals who were once consumed by their addiction find solace and strength through their spiritual practices. It is not about religious dogma or specific rituals; rather, it is about finding a connection to something greater than oneself and drawing upon that power for guidance and support.
Step 11 in AA emphasizes the importance of deepening one's spirituality and seeking a conscious connection with a higher power. It encourages individuals to engage in prayer and meditation to gain knowledge of their higher power's will and to find the power to carry it out. This step can be a transformative part of the recovery journey, providing individuals with a sense of purpose, guidance, and inner peace.