Climbing Towards God Consciousness
Episode Overview
Understanding the spiritual foundation of recovery. Exploring the Twelve-Step Ladder to God Consciousness. Importance of spiritual grounding in addiction recovery. Role of All Addicts Anonymous in supporting recovery. Balancing ego and humility in the recovery journey. 
Climb out of his illness he needed to find a ladder and climb it as if his life depended on it because it did.
In this enlightening episode of 'Climbing All the Way,' Father Bill W. engages in a thoughtful conversation with Matt D., an archivist for All Addicts Anonymous. The discussion centers around the profound insights found in the 1973 paper 'The Twelve-Step Ladder to God Consciousness,' authored by Tom Powers, Jr. Growing up under the shadow of Bill Wilson, Powers experienced his own struggles with alcoholism and devised a spiritually grounded approach to recovery.
This approach, reflected in the Twelve-Step Ladder, emphasizes the journey towards God Consciousness as fundamental for those battling addiction. Father Bill W. shares his personal experience of recovery since December 1972, offering hope and guidance to those who find themselves at the beginning of their recovery journey. He emphasizes the need for perseverance, likening the recovery process to climbing a ladder where each rung represents a step closer to spiritual awakening and conscious contact with a higher power. Matt D.
discusses the history and evolution of All Addicts Anonymous, highlighting the importance of retaining the spiritual essence of the original 12-step program. He explains how many alcoholics have benefited from the inclusive nature of the steps, which are presented as suggestions rather than commandments. This approach allows individuals to engage with the program at their own pace, fostering spiritual growth and personal transformation.
The conversation touches on the role of ego in recovery, recognizing its inevitable presence but emphasizing the need for humility and willingness to learn. Matt and Father Bill W. agree that recovery is not a solitary endeavor but a dynamic, fulfilling process supported by fellowship and mutual understanding. Listeners are encouraged to explore the resources available in the show notes, including links to All Addicts Anonymous and other literature that may aid in their recovery journey.
As the episode concludes, Father Bill W. expresses gratitude for the opportunity to share these insights and encourages listeners to persist in their pursuit of spiritual and personal healing.