Atheists and the 12 steps
BY Staff Reports
Thursday, July 02, 2009
As a former alcohol and addictions counselor, I've witnessed atheists and agnostics entering 12-step programs with just such an attitude as Ronald McDaniel ("Higher dimensions," June 24).
But what most of these nonbelievers find is not a religious event but rather a spiritual experience. It is not necessarily true that Rep. John Sullivan will use his religion's icons as a higher power. Many grew up in religions that professed a punishing god. But by working the 12 steps, addicts and alcoholics define their own conception of God. Some even choose to use the word "God" to stand for "good orderly direction."
Recovering alcoholics or addicts who work the 12 steps experience changes in their thinking, their reactions to situations and their ability to deal with life on life's terms without getting drunk or high.
Cathy J. Hunter, Broken Arrow
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