Working the Steps

Step 6 : We are entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.

Early in my Big Book Step Study days, I heard that,

"Entire" willingness to be rid of defects of character is a product of thorough work on steps 4 &5. Note that step 6 in the Big Book is but a few lines.

I'll never forget the feeling near the end of my first step 5 , that obsessions with lust and anger could be removed. Entire willingness to proceed had occured!

A year or so later, a deeper layer of discontent surfaced. I had intended a thorough, perfect series of steps the first try, but what happened? Once again, the 12&12 offered a shot of reality. In it's Step 3, are the words,

"Nothing short of continuous action upon these (remaining steps) as a way of life can bring the much-desired result."

"Progress not perfection" appears a timely reminder at moments of confusion and doubt about the veracity of AA's 12 step program. Heard at this morning's meeting,

"Don't drink and do the next thing right."

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