by Robin Shane

Created on: March 26, 2007   Last Updated: May 11, 2007

Spirituality is practiced in many different forms and is very individualized. Twelve step programs serve as a spiritual avenue for people with a variety of different issues and disorders. The practice of the steps contained in the programs is vital to the recovery of program members. A nearly absolute number of members who participate in the program and practice the principles therein on a daily basis have continued to grow progressively.

The common denominator between all twelve step programs is spiritual growth. The most devout atheist or agnostic can find a Higher Power than themselves through the steps. Their odds are even greater with the aid of another person who is on the same journey. The spiritual path is broad and all inclusive. This path accepts everyone without prejudice. It doesn't tell people how, when, or where to grow. Each person is on their own spiritual path and grows at their own pace with their own individual conception of their Power Greater than themselves.

A participant of the steps gains progressive spiritual growth by first admitting powerlessness and unmanageably. Next, in steps two and three, the Higher Power is discovered and a level of trust is exhibited by turning their life over to that Power's guidance and direction. Often it is said that God means Good Orderly Direction. A life of carelessness and ego is gradually transformed into a life of awareness, both personal and with others. Steps four and vice are steps of self discovery. Personal growth and character begin to be developed by trusting this Higher Power to remove character defects that stand in the way of spiritual progress in steps six and seven. In steps eight and nine, many people who were harmed are offered amends to set life straight before the journey commences. This mentality is practiced on a daily basis in step ten. Step eleven shows how to practice prayer and meditation with freedom from the guilt and shame of the old life. The giving of self and aiding in the spiritual growth of others is vital in step twelve. By this stage in growth, it is suggested that a spiritual awakening is experienced. Practice the principles of the steps in all matters of life is the ultimate goal. These principles are honesty, hope, faith, courage, integrity, willingness, humility, brotherly love, justice, perseverance, spirituality, and service.

The twelve steps, practiced by any group of people, are an amazing tool for finding out that someone or something is bigger than all of us. We find that individual path of spirituality necessary for peace as well as survival. Not all people can find God in the same way, but there is a way for all who desperately seek Him. I personally didn't have to look far to find God. He had been with me all along. The steps are designed to bring us to a point of humility so we can look past ourselves and see God. There lies peace, serenity, and growth.

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