Working the Steps

Step 3 : We make a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God.

I don't dwell upon God to a newcomer. Even Atheists can transform their lives with tangible 12 step action to restore rational thinking processes and treat grosser handicaps.

From the 12&12 Step 3 - How to do it,

"We made a beginning by coming to AA.
"At first this higher power is likely to be our closest AA friend, our sponsor, who points out that coming to meetings is a good beginning but a far cry from a contented useful life.
That is just where the remaining steps come in."

From the Big Book Step 4 p64

"Though our decision was vital and crucial step, it could have little permanent effect unless at once followed by a strenuous effort to face, and to be rid of, the things in ourselves which had been blocking us. Our liquor was but a symptom. So we had to get down to causes and conditions."

While improving mentally and physically, then, Step 11 suggests improving understanding of whatever external power(s) we choose.

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