Kevin Petersen on Embracing the A.A. Way: Finding Strength in Conformity
The conformity comes from the gift of desperation, and having tried, I played all my cards, and so it was like: look, we have another way of life.
Can following a set of principles actually lead to personal freedom? Kevin Petersen, a marriage and family therapist with years of sobriety under his belt, joins Michael on the Daily Reflection Podcast to tackle this very question. They dive into the often misunderstood concept of conformity within Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) and how it has played a pivotal role in Kevin's journey to lasting sobriety.
Kevin shares candidly about his initial resistance to A.A.'s principles and how the 'gift of desperation' eventually led him to embrace them. He explains that this desperation often acts as a wake-up call, making people realize they've exhausted all other options and need help beyond human aid. For Kevin, conforming to A.A.'s steps and traditions was not about losing his identity but about finding a path to genuine freedom and self-discovery.
Listeners will hear how Kevin's life transformed once he began to align with A.A.'s principles. He discusses the mental obsession of addiction and how trauma and life events can be contributing factors. However, he emphasizes that spiritual growth and community support are crucial elements in overcoming these challenges. Kevin also touches on how his adherence to A.A.'s guidelines has enabled him to be a more effective therapist and a better support system for others in recovery.
This episode offers a fresh perspective on conformity, showing that it can be a powerful tool for personal growth and recovery. Whether you're new to A.A., have been in the program for years, or are simply curious about the process, Kevin's insights provide valuable takeaways that can inspire anyone on their journey to sobriety.