The StepsThe capacity / ability of people to deny the reality of the situation that they are in is truly amazing. Step One deals with just that - admitting that we not only have a problem with alcohol, but that we were powerless over alcohol.
To realize and acknoweldge this situation we must strip away the covering of denial that surrounds our lifestyle. This way of living has been ingrained into ourselves over what in many cases has been years and years of habits. We did not simply wake one morning and become alcoholics, this is a learned way of life. We may have spent a good part of our lives leading up to this set of events.
To admit our powerlessness over alcohol is a primary step in our recovery. We are ending the period of denial by squarely facing the problem and admitting its existence.
I believe that most alcoholics at one time or another simply accept that this is a way of life that is normal. We truly believe that it is normal to always be drinking or seeking that drink. If others sense us as having a problem, we merely percieve this as an unfavorable character trait in that person. (They must be do-gooders, or busy bodies with nothing better to do than bug me.)
If we are truly honest with ourselves, we will also admit that this is a situation that we cannot correct by ourselves. This removes another layer of denial, one that we can conquer any problems by ourselves. "I can tough it out and take care of myself" is a stand that many people take in difficult decisions. It is an easy way out, and no confrontation with reality is needed.
Frank and questioning thoughts require a contemplation and self evaluation that may not have occured before. This can lead to a realization of our goals and aspirations. We can not strive for what we truly want unless we are able to know what that is, and what the challanges and blockades are that are in the way.
The Steps
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Personal Stories
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