The 12 Steps of Recovery | Step Two: Finding a Higher Power

By: Nathan Vargas, Recovery Coach & Psych Tech

Step Two: We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore our sanity.

Recovery from addiction is a challenging journey, but it’s also a path filled with hope and transformation. Step Two of this journey introduces the powerful concepts of hope and a higher power, which can be pivotal in helping individuals recover. This step encourages openness to new ideas and the acceptance of support from something greater than ourselves.

Let’s explore the significance of hope in recovery and demystify the concept of a higher power, making it accessible and personal for everyone. Whether you’re just beginning your recovery journey or supporting someone who is, understanding these concepts can provide a foundation for lasting change and newfound peace.

Hope in Recovery

Step Two introduces the concept of hope, which can feel very distant and even scary for those struggling with addiction. This step encourages us to be open to new ideas and possibilities that may aid in our recovery.

When we learn to be open, we stop judging and placing expectations; this in return allows us to be teachable and grow. As discussed in Step One, we continue to learn to let go of control. The way we have been living our lives involved some poor choices which ultimately led to our lives being unmanageable.

It’s crucial that we come to terms with our reality that we need help and recognize that something greater than ourselves can assist us in becoming better individuals. For the first time in a long time, there is a solution being presented for our problem, and that solution can help us find the sanity we have been missing.

Remember, sometimes it’s not about what happens to us but what we choose to make from it. That’s where the concept of a higher power comes into play.

The Concept of a Higher Power

Sometimes people get stuck on this step because of the word “higher power” because they think it refers to the Christian God, and they get scared away. However, in a 12-step program, a higher power is of YOUR own understanding, whatever that may be. Some examples could be God, the group meeting, nature or anything else that you feel a connection to.

It’s important to understand the big difference between spirituality and religion. Spirituality is about finding a personal sense of connection and meaning, whereas religion typically involves specific beliefs and practices associated with a particular faith. Twelve step programs emphasize spirituality, not religion.

The point is your higher power must be something that you can rely on in your times of hardship. Something you can turn to 24/7, 365 days of the year. Something that you constantly practice surrendering to. The beautiful thing about this step is there is no right answer. Everyone has a different version of a higher power that works for them and their recovery.

If you struggle with finding a higher power:

  1. Start by reflecting on what brings you a sense of peace, strength and comfort. This could be a place in nature where you feel connected, a community group that offers support, or even a personal practice like meditation or mindfulness.
  2. Journaling about your experiences and feelings can also help you identify what resonates with you on a deeper level.
  3. Additionally, talking to others in recovery about their higher power can provide new perspectives and ideas.

Remember, your journey is a personal one, and it’s okay to take your time exploring different possibilities until you find what truly supports your recovery. When you do find your higher power, you will certainly experience a new sense of freedom and peace.

 

You are not alone! We can support you or your loved one at every step of recovery.

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