Step 11 of the 12-step recovery program suggests that we can improve our conscious contact with a higher power through prayer and meditation. Spencer and Sara share personal insights and experiences that highlight the transformative power of this step as part of our spiritual growth in recovery.



Understanding Step 11



Our conversation is structured by reading and responding to the description of Step 11 from the book How Al-Anon Works. Step 11 says “[We] sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.” 



Sara's Journey to Finding Her Higher Power



Sara shared her personal journey towards understanding and connecting with a higher power. Despite being in recovery for over two decades, it wasn't until the last year that Sara truly felt a connection to a God of her understanding. This new relationship brought immense peace and clarity, transforming her approach to prayer and meditation, which she now views as synonymous with having daily conversations with her higher power.



Diverse Interpretations of Prayer and Meditation



Spencer and Sara both highlighted that prayer and meditation can take many forms and should be personalized to fit one's beliefs and comfort levels. Spencer noted that prayer need not be formal and reminded listeners that meditation doesn't have to be mystical or complex—it's about finding concentrated quietness and tuning out the noise of everyday life to listen for guidance.



Personal Experiences with Spiritual Practices



Spencer shared his experiences of unconventional forms of meditation, such as finding peace in nature and allowing moments of awe and gratitude, like watching a sunset, to serve as a spiritual practice. He emphasized that these moments help in relieving stress and tapping into a higher spiritual strength that facilitates serenity, acceptance, and gratitude in daily life.



Challenges and Realizations



Both Sara and Spencer described their past struggles with understanding and applying Step 11. Sara pointed out how her previous rigidity in beliefs made it difficult to connect with a higher power. However, the shift to a loving and trusting higher power allowed her to experience previously unimaginable goals, facilitating peace and acceptance in her personal relationships.



We wrapped up by acknowledging that spiritual growth is not about rigid rituals but about embracing what genuinely brings one closer to their higher power. Spencer noted that letting go of specific expectations about prayer and meditation has enriched his spiritual journey, while Sara embraced the realization that she doesn't need to make spiritual growth difficult. Trusting in her higher power has led to a more spontaneous and peaceful existence.



Conclusion



Step 11 serves as a guide for those in recovery to continually seek a deeper connection with their higher power. This conscious contact brings about transformation, serenity, and the ability to meet life's challenges with courage and strength. We are reminded that spirituality is personal and evolving, and embracing our unique paths can lead to real growth and healing.



Readings and Links



We read from How Al-Anon Works, pp 61-61, “Step 11”, in Chapter 8 The 12 Steps. We also read from From Survival To Recovery, pagea 227, and from Back to Episodes