Discovering a Power Greater than Yourself in Sobriety

“Well, that’s exactly what this book is about. Its main objective is to enable you to find a power greater than yourself which will solve your problem. That means we have written a book which we believe to be spiritual as well as moral. And it means, of course that we are going to talk about God. Here difficulty arises with agnostics.  Many times we talk to a new man and watch his hope rise as we discuss his alcoholic problems and explain our fellowship. But his face falls when we speak of spiritual matters, especially when we mention God, for we have re-opened a subject which our man thought he had nearly evaded or entirely ignored. We know how he feels. We have shared his honest doubt and prejudice. Some of us have been violently anti-religious.”-pg. 45 We Agnostics from the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous

It is common for many alcoholics to have issues with the whole God thing especially because of what most of us had to endure prior to receiving alcohol addiction help, as well as the type of religious upbringing most of us had. When we get to the part of the big book that states “either God is everything or he is nothing what is our choice to be?” it can be difficult for us to make that decision. It might seem like enough to have to deal with getting sober, going to a 30 day rehab program, AA, or a drug addiction detox but the fact is that if those things aren’t backed up with spiritual growth followed by a spiritual experience then it is all for nothing. It is not required that we believe in God or a guy in the sky idea but rather that we come up with a concept of a power greater than ourselves that works for us. What this “power” looks like acts like, is called, resides, and any other qualities are entirely up to us as the individual.

Above It All In The San Bernardino Mountains

Set in the beautiful San Bernardino Mountains, Above It All Treatment Center is the premier drug and alcohol detox, rehab and treatment center in the Los Angeles vicinity. Above It All Treatment Center offers a modern, medical 12 step or non 12 step model based on treating each client as an individual.

Unlike other drug alcohol treatment programs, Above It All Treatment Center utilizes the latest scientific research to determine the most effective course of treatment.
The alcohol and drug detox process and treatment at Above It All Treatment Center is an active program that requires a one on one approach with the participation of each client in his or her own recovery.
Alcoholism rehab and treatment is the process with which alcohol abusers (alcoholics) are able to recover and restore their lives to an improved condition of that with which it was before they were drinking.

It is essential for an alcoholic to admit that there is a problem in order to receive help. Alcohol interventions have also been successful in getting less willing people to accept a treatment plan. Individuals going through an alcohol treatment program will want to look for a few key elements when trying to choose a plan that is right for them. For some people the location and proximity to their home is foremost. Many folks prefer to seek a calm and serene location where scenery is very important.

At Above It All Treatment Center premier alcohol and drug rehab centers in Los Angeles California, people find the perfect environment to start and stay sober. The mixing of the beach environment with the gorgeous coastal setting makes visitors feel a sense of rest and renewal. At Above It All Treatment Center, alcohol and drug rehab is like a vacation that is focused on the journey of self-discovery. Above It All Treatment Center drug and alcohol detox and rehab treatment center, is like a dream come true for most clients.

Rehab in Los Angeles metropolitan area is known to have some of the best drug and alcohol treatment centers in the world. Above It All Treatment Center is the premier drug and alcohol rehabilitation and detox facility that offers a more progressive, holistic approach. Many public people and celebrities choose Above It All Treatment Center because the rate of recovery is much higher than average and the setting is spectacular.  Give us a call today at 1-888-805-0127 and let’s get started on your recovery plan.

The Alcoholic Addict, Resentments, and Inventory

“We reviewed our own conduct over the years past. Where had we been selfish, dishonest, or inconsiderate? Whom had we hurt? Did we unjustifiably arouse jealousy, suspicion or bitterness? Where were we at fault, what should we have done instead? We got this all down on paper and looked at it. In this way we tried to shape a sane and sound ideal for our future sex life. We subjected each relation to this test-was it selfish or not? We asked God to mold our ideals and help us to live up to them. We remembered always that our sex powers were God-given and therefore good, neither to be used lightly or selfishly nor to be despised and loathed. Whatever our ideals turns out to be , we must be willing to grow toward it. We must be willing to make amends where we have done harm, provided that we do not bring about still more harm in doing so.” pg. 69 How It Works, from the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous

It is imperative as alcoholics that we review our conduct on a regular basis so that we can amend our behavior. It is easy for us especially prior to receiving alcohol addiction help to come from a place of selfishness, and self-seeking. This often times results in lack of consideration for others. When we act without consciousness it can be hurtful to others. Many of us have spent most of our drinking days running through people’s lives like tornados. When we go through a drug addiction detox, AA, a 30 day rehab program, and get sober we are given the tools needed not to do this anymore, we learn what it means to live on an altruistic plane, and we shape our ideals. When shaping our ideals it is not just limited to sex it can be applicable to several areas of our lives. We take a look at how we want to be in all our relationships and also look closely at the kind of relationships we want in our lives romantic or not. After we do this we turn it over to a power greater than ourselves and make an effort to get as close to those ideals as possible. When we fall short we make it right. As long as we try our best and keep our side of the street clean we will be able to experience the gifts and grace that this program and lifestyle has to offer.

The Alcoholic, Fear, and Sobriety

“Sometimes we think fear ought to be classed with stealing. It seems to cause more trouble. We reviewed our fears thoroughly. We put them on paper, even though we had no resentment in connection with them. We asked ourselves why we had them. Wasn’t it because self-reliance failed us? Self-reliance was good as far as it went, but it didn’t go far enough. Some of us once had great self-confidence, but it didn’t fully solve the fear problem, or any other. When it made us cocky, it was worse. Perhaps there is a better way-we think so.For we are now on different basis of trusting and relying upon God. We trust infinite God rather than our finite self. We are in the world to play the role he assigns. Just to the extent that we do as we think he would have us, and humbly rely on him, does he enable us to match calamity with serenity.” – Pg.68 How It Works, from the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous

Fear often robs us of all things good in our life. It causes so much damage and can be paralyzing at times. When we first receive alcohol addiction help, go to a drug addiction detox, AA, or 30 day rehab program one of the first things that is asked of us is to turn our will over to a power greater than ourselves. Through the recovery process we are given the tools needed to do so. The fact is that at some point we come to realize that fear to the extent that most of us endure it is not healthy and is no longer a character defect that works for us. It is isolating and only separates us from the world but also from our higher power. If we are in so much fear that we feel like we have to control the situation regardless of the fact that we are powerless then there is very little to no room for God. If we can live in faith then we can be rid of fear, be happy, be free from the bondage of self, and truly know what it’s like to live in the sunlight of the spirit while we match calamity with serenity.

Detox That Works In Surroundings That Comfort

At Above It All Treatment and Recovery Center, we have a dedicated detox facility situated on Lake Arrowhead in the San Bernardino Mountains that’s managed by a highly trained staff to make your experience as comfortable and as smooth as possible. Upon arrival, we will fully assess your physical and chemical state. Before we begin your treatment, we will evaluate any injuries you have and perform comprehensive tests to gain an in-depth look at the biochemical, nutritional, and neuro-biological aspects of your addiction.

Detox can be dangerous if not done properly. Many people who attempt detox, either by themselves or under the supervision of someone who is insufficiently trained, fail and relapse because of the painful and unpleasant symptoms they experience when undergoing detox. That’s why it’s critical to work with experienced professionals who will supervise the process from start to finish, and make you feel as comfortable as possible.

With a staff of licensed nurses providing 24-hour care, 7 days a week, you can rest easy knowing that your comfort, safety and ongoing needs are our number one priority. No one slips through the cracks or goes unnoticed here. We have the highest staff-to-client ratio of any drug treatment facility in the country, and we pride ourselves on taking excellent care of our clients. Privacy, confidentiality, and the highest level of care are what you can expect at Above It All Treatment and Recovery Center.

When you call Above It All Treatment and Recovery Center, we will discuss your specific needs for any drug or alcohol detox services. Then, upon admission, we will determine what your detox protocol will be.  If you are interested in learning more, please call for a FREE addiction assessment now:  888-634-4546

The Alcoholic and Resentments

“When we finished we considered it carefully. The first thing apparent was that this world and its people were often quite wrong. To conclude that others were wrong was as far as most of us ever got. The usual outcome was that people continued to wrong us and we stayed sore. Sometimes it was remorse and then we were sore at ourselves. But the more we fought and tried to have our own way, the worse matters got. As in war, the victor always seemed to win. Our moments of triumph were short-lived. It is plain that a life which indulges deep resentment leads only to futility and unhappiness. To the precise extent that we permit these, do we squander the hours that might have been worthwhile. But with the alcoholic, whose hope is the maintenance and growth of a spiritual experience, this business of resentment is infinitely grave. We found that it is fatal. For when harboring such feeling we shut ourselves off from the sunlight of the spirit.” pg.-66 How It Works, from the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous

Prior to receiving alcohol addiction help we are often times perfect examples of self will run riot. It usually ends in resentment. It is important that we surrender when going into a drug addiction detox, AA, 30 day rehab program so that we can begin work on these matters. Many of us have had times where we thought we were constantly being wronged and if only others changed we would be okay. When we are in this head space it can be difficult for us to change this thinking especially because when we are living in fear and resentment we often times forget to bring god into it. If we let go of our desire to change the past and forgive people we have a better chance to recover and be rid of resentments. It is after we have done the work on this that we can begin to heal and have a life of freedom and happiness.

Talking With an Alcoholic About Getting Help

“Your candidate may give reasons why he need not follow all of the program. He may rebel at the thought of a drastic housecleaning which requires discussion with other people. Do not contradict such views. Tell him you once felt as he does, but you doubt whether you would have made much progress had you not taken action. On your first visit tell him about the fellowship of alcoholic’s anonymous .If he shows interest; lend him your copy of this book. Unless your friend wants to talk further about himself, do not wear out your welcome. Give him a chance to think it over. If you do stay, let him steer the conversation in any direction he like.” pg. 94- 95 Working with Others from the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous

It is important that we do not try to corner someone into recovery. It’s a program based on attraction rather than promotion and there is a reason for that. If we were to try and convince people that they need to get alcohol addiction help then they would not have gotten sober on their own accord but rather because they were preached to and told they need help. That is not what sobriety is about. When someone decides to go to a drug addiction detox, sober living, 30 day rehab program, or AA it is important that they come to the conclusion that they are powerless on their own so that they can own their recovery, struggles, and triumphs that come along with it. We can share our experience, strength, and hope by telling them what happened, what it used to be like, and what it’s like now. We can make ourselves available to anyone who’s suffering from this disease but that where our responsibilities stop as far as informing someone about this disease goes.

Alcoholism, Addiction, and the Double Life

“What usually happens? The show doesn’t come off very well. He begins to think life doesn’t treat him right. He decides to exert himself more. He becomes, on the next occasion, still more demanding or gracious; as the case may be still the play does not suit him. Admitting he may be somewhat at fault, he is sure that other people are more to blame he becomes angry, indignant, self-pitying. What is his basic trouble? Is he not really a self-seeker even when trying to be kind? Is he not a victim of the delusion that he can wrest satisfaction and happiness out of this world if he only manages well?

Is it not evident to all the rest of the players that these are the things he wants? And do not his actions make each of them wish to retaliate, snatching all they can get out of the show? Is he not even in his best moments, a producer of confusion rather than harmony? Our self-centered-ego-centric, as people like to call it nowadays. – pg. 61 How It Works, from the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous

Often times even after receiving alcohol addiction help and getting sober the alcoholic likes to enjoy a double life like an actor in a play and gets upset when things go awry. Little do we know that our lack of success in this area has little to do with how we manage things but instead is a result of trying to take our will back, and enjoy “stirring things up” without wanting to deal with the consequences. We are often oblivious to this reality and are under the delusion that if only everyone else played along everything would be okay. When we enter into a drug addiction detox, AA, or 30 day rehab program we learn how to become a team player, and live an altruistic lifestyle. At this point we can finally see that it’s not all about us but rather about the fact that we are all bonded through this disease that has stripped everything from us and in turn share a common solution. Recovery is much bigger than us and our desires. It is a freedom from the bondage of self and our only role in this play is to be of service and help others recover from alcoholism.

Discovering Our Higher Power in Sobriety

“In the preceding chapters you have learned something of alcoholism. We hope we have made clear the distinction between the alcoholic and the non-alcoholic. If, when you honestly want to, you find you cannot quit entirely, or if when drinking, you have little control over the amount you take, you are probably alcoholic, if that be the case, you may be suffering from an illness which only a spiritual experience will conquer. To one who feels he is an atheist or agnostic such an experience seems impossible, but to continue as he is means disaster, especially if he is an alcoholic of the hopeless variety. To be doomed to an alcoholic death or to live on a spiritual basis are not always easy alternatives to face. – pg. 44 We Agnostics, from the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous 

After first receiving alcohol addiction help one of the first few things that come up for us is the god issue. We might have issues with identifying, and believing in God especially if the god we grew up with was a source of punishment and damnation. The fact is that all we have to do is have the willingness to come up with a concept of a higher power that we believe can handle any aspect of our lives. When we are doing the work whether it be in a drug addiction detox, AA, or 30 day rehab program we can hopefully begin to see how our higher power had been doing for us what we could not do for ourselves this whole time. After we establish a conscious contact with a power greater then ourselves it is then and only then that we can go on to have a spiritual experience begin to truly heal.

Getting Sober and Sharing on the Group Level

“Our stories disclose in a general way what we used to be like, what happened, and what we are like now. If you have decided you want what we have and are willing to go to any length to get it-then you are ready to take certain steps. At some of these we balked. We thought we could find an easier softer way but we could not. With all the earnestness at our command we beg of you to be fearless and thorough from the very start. Some of us have tried to hold onto our old ideas and the result was nil until we let go absolutely. Remember we deal with alcohol- cunning, baffling and powerful! Without help it is too much for us. But there is one who has all power that one is god. May you find him now! Half measures availed us nothing. We stood at the turning point. We asked his protection and care with complete abandon.” – pg. 58-59 How It Works from the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous

Providing alcohol addiction help is a huge part of the recovery process. When we share on a group level or one on one it is important to talk about what happened, what it was like, and what it’s like now so that others can relate and see that it is possible for them to stay sober as well. This excerpt from how it works explains in a nutshell exactly what we go through when we first get sober. We all look for an easier way or a way out, we see that it doesn’t work, and we either surrender or start drinking again. Whether we are in a drug addiction detox, AA, or a 30 day rehab program it is important that we turn our will and our lives over to the care of someone/something else. We need to fully surrender in order to gain the willingness needed to live this new way of life we have found in sobriety. It is through this process of surrender that we are able to be free from our addiction and are able to pass on experience, strength and hope to the newcomer.