“This thought brings us to Step Ten, which suggests we continue to take personal inventory and continue to set right any new mistakes as we go along. We vigorously commenced this way of living as we cleaned up the past. We have entered the world of the Spirit. Our next function is to grow in understanding and effectiveness. This is not an overnight matter. It should continue for our lifetime. Continue to watch for selfishness, dishonesty, resentment, and fear. When these crop up, we ask God at once to remove them. We discuss them with someone immediately and make amends quickly if we have harmed anyone. Then we resolutely turn our thoughts to someone we can help. Love and tolerance of others is our code.”
-from the chapter “Working with others” from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous…
Taking the Next Step
As alcoholics in the middle of receiving 12 step treatment it can be hard for us to get used to the idea of taking inventory. It is part of the cleaning house process. We must be diligent about keeping our side of the street clean so that we can be of maximum service to others. When we are able to trust in god, clean house, and work with others the rest just kind of falls into place. In a detox, AA, or at Above It All Treatment Center we learn how to become functioning members of society again. Through doing this work we can begin to heal and become happily and usefully whole. We will know a new freedom and a new happiness, and be able to achieve long-term sobriety.