Steps By The Big Book

[bluidkiti]

STEP 10

I was to test my thinking by the new God-consciousness within. (Bill’s Story, 13: 4)
Heard in a meeting: “If we are not growing in recovery we are moving backward toward active addiction.”


The addictive diseases are characterized by denial, self deception, isolation and loneliness. In Steps 4 – 9 we act to identify and change what in us blocks us from a power greater than ourselves. In Step 10, we practice Steps 4 - 9 in real time on a daily basis. This turns the slogan “one day at a time” into a philosophy of life.
Step 10 invites the practice of continuous awareness of our intentions, motives, and behaviors, and guards against persistent defects or new problems. We consider our conduct and thought patterns in order to initiate change. When we are attentive, we may inventory ourselves at any time of the day. Also we may retreat to places of quiet and work the Steps in a more formal way annually or semiannually.
We are not cured of alcoholism. What we really have is a daily reprieve contingent on the maintenance of our spiritual condition. (Into Action, 85: 1)


p. 73