In this episode, the hosts discuss step 12 of recovery and the importance of practicing the principles of this step. They share personal experiences of their own spiritual awakenings and how it has impacted their recovery journey. They also touch on the concept of altruism and the personal growth and spiritual development that comes from helping others. The hosts explore the idea of selfless acts and whether they truly exist. The conversation explores the concept of selfless acts and the wrong motives behind them. It emphasizes the importance of doing good deeds for the right reasons, without expecting anything in return. The discussion also touches on personal growth and the role of the 12 steps in bringing about positive change. The idea of finding purpose in life is explored, with the understanding that purpose can be found in everyday actions and interactions. The conversation concludes with a discussion on setting boundaries and preventing relapse in recovery. A mainstay of our recovery stories is being completely honest with our support teams but, most importantly, honest with ourselves. How do we do that? The answer is simple: we journal about our experiences, ideas, and goals. If you are anything like us, that means you journal A LOT and take a bunch of notes, so don’t you deserve a great writing instrument? We think you do, and so does the sponsor of the Awake and Sober Podcast Tactile Turn.  If you have yet to use a Tactile Turn pen, let’s be honest: are you even writing?!? 00:00Introduction and Shout Outs 02:39Discussing Step 12 and Introducing Guest 03:40Guest’s Role as the Poster Child for Step 12 08:47Sharing Personal Experiences of Spiritual Awakening 13:06The Importance of Step 12 in Recovery 16:48The Practice of Step 12 and Preventing Relapse 19:14Personal Growth and Spiritual Development in Step 12 23:30Awakening vs Experience in Step 12 26:28The Role of Step 12 in Maintaining Sobriety 30:34Practicing the Principles of Step 12 32:27Exploring Altruism and Selfless Acts 34:02Selfless Acts and Wrong Motives 36:51Personal Growth through the 12 Steps 39:17Finding Purpose in Everyday Actions 44:29Setting Boundaries to Prevent Relapse 57:31Spreading the Message of Recovery through Example