The 10th step promise in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) states, “And we have ceased fighting anything or anyone, even alcohol. For by this time sanity will have returned. We will seldom be interested in liquor. If tempted, we recoil from it as from a hot flame.” This promise encapsulates the transformation that individuals in recovery from alcohol addiction can experience through working the 12 steps of AA.
When I reflect on this promise, I am reminded of my own journey through alcoholism. In the early stages of my addiction, I felt a constant battle within myself. I fought against the cravings, the desire to drink, and the negative consequences that alcohol brought into my life. It seemed like an ongoing struggle, and I often felt powerless in the face of my addiction.
However, as I worked through the steps of AA, something began to change. Step by step, I began to find a sense of sanity returning to my life. The fog of addiction slowly lifted, and I gained a clearer perspective on myself and my actions. I started to understand the root causes of my addiction and the patterns that kept me trapped in a cycle of alcohol abuse.
Through this process, I also learned to let go of the need to fight against alcohol or anyone else. I realized that my battle with alcohol was not one that could be won through sheer force or willpower. Instead, I needed to surrender to the fact that alcohol had power over me and that I needed to find a different way to live.
As sanity returned, my interest in liquor diminished. I no longer felt the constant urge to drink or the need to rely on alcohol to cope with life's challenges. The obsession that once consumed my thoughts began to fade away, making room for a newfound clarity and serenity.
Of course, there were moments when temptation crept in. The allure of alcohol would occasionally rear its head, especially during times of stress or emotional turmoil. However, I learned to recoil from that temptation as if it were a hot flame. I recognized the destructive power that alcohol held over me and the potential consequences that would follow if I were to give in.
In order to support my recovery and maintain this promise, I implemented various strategies. I developed a strong support network within AA, surrounding myself with individuals who understood my struggle and could provide guidance and encouragement. I also practiced self-care and sought healthier coping mechanisms, such as exercise, meditation, and engaging in hobbies that brought me joy.
The 10th step promise signifies a profound shift in mindset and a deep transformation within the individual in recovery. It represents the freedom from the constant battle with alcohol and the restoration of sanity and control over one's life. It is a promise that, with continued commitment to the principles of AA and a willingness to grow and change, a life free from the grip of alcohol is not only possible but attainable.