Steps By The Big Book

[bluidkiti]

SESSION 3

STEP 1 Bill’s Story

Step 1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol – that our lives had become unmanageable.
Upon a foundation of complete willingness…. (12: 4)

Step 1 written inventory

I ON YOUR OWN: STUDY – What did the the Big Book authors say?

• READ Chapter 1 Bill’s Story, pp.1 – 16. Read in the Big Book how in 1934 one of AA's founders, Bill W., learned of the problem, the solution, and the program of action to recover from alcoholism.

1.) The Problem: From Dr. Silkworth, Bill learned of the medical problem of alcoholism as both a mental and a physical illness. (7:1; xxv-xxxii)
2.) The Solution: From Dr. Carl Jung, (through Roland H. and Ebby T.) Bill learned of the spiritual solution to the problem as a necessary vital spiritual experience. (27: 5; see also 9: 6; 567-8)
3.) The Program of Action: From the Oxford Group (through Ebby T.), Bill learned of the discipline of practicing a step by step program of action that opens one to the necessary vital spiritual experiences. (27: 4) [See also He Sold Himself Short, 263: 0]

• WRITE Write down how the matters set forth in Bill’s Story reflect your own life.

• • • Cross off the bulleted focus and reflection comments as you consider them.
    • Continue writing your Step1 inventory about your powerlessness over alcohol and how your life is unmanageable.

• TALK Speak with your sponsor and other group members about the study group and the Step 1 readings.

• PRACTICE DAILY MEDITATION / PRAYER

II WITH THE GROUP: PRACTICE – What does the Big Book say to me about my practice of Step 1?

• Review selections from Bill's Story together.
• Consider sharing your own writings and personal Step 1 stories with the group.
• Rather than 'yes' and 'no' responses, consider answering in detail and with examples.

p. 18
http://www.stepsbybigbook.net/