Thanks yagr for the rest of the story. This is what I love about PsychCentral. I don't think sharing at this level of detail is often possible within a meeting. I am glad that we're able to discuss sensitive 12-step program related issues here.

Back to the Original Poster's question. We can see that at least in these cases some sort of spiritual tools and or growth has been part of recovery - not necessarily God, but most successful recovering alcoholics as part of AA have at least some sort of improved spiritual understanding.

For me, I was a staunch Atheist and defender of Atheism into my 20s. Related some to my bipolar and some to my recovery from alcoholism, I now acknowledge at a personal level some spiritual phenomenon that I leave analysis alone for - I just rely on undefined faith.

In a practical sense, I asked myself "What am I willing to change to stop drinking and work on recovery?" I wanted to get very specific - I was pretty desperate. I mean if other recovering alcoholics insisted I shave my head or change my belief system, I would consider these, as these would be small items to change about myself to find the rewards of recovery.

I hope this discussion helps you in your journey.

moogs