[DelusionsDaily]

Ok here's the deal. I believe in a Power grater than myself...no doubt. But that he can restore me to sanity is an entirely different question. But I'm trying to stay open to the idea because my God knows I need lots of help. Is the openness to the idea enough?

[Travelinglady]

I certainly believe being open is important. I believe in the Christian God and I know He has directed me in my treatment. I also personally believe in the case of most illnesses He works through doctors and other professionals. He certainly does miracles, too. But obviously what you believe as a "higher power" is your choice.

[roads]

Openness to the idea is enough. As long as as I held onto the idea that there was something greater/wiser than idiot me (who drank myself into not being able to help myself), then I was open to the idea that the group, the sponsor (or in my case the god who put the Milky Way in motion) could & would straighten out my life if I paid attention and did my part. I didn't have to be the smart one. And I'm not Christian, or a member of any church ... yet I'm sober.

[DelusionsDaily]

It's the last half I'm unsure about...the restoring me to sanity part. But I guess He better be able to or I'm in trouble. So I believe in a God just not sure about the other part but I'm VERY open to the idea.

Originally Posted by MELISSSAD81

Ok here's the deal. I believe in a Power grater than myself...no doubt. But that he can restore me to sanity is an entirely different question. But I'm trying to stay open to the idea because my God knows I need lots of help. Is the openness to the idea enough?

Of course, my dear. No were in the second step does it say about sanity returning.....just.....a belief....that possibly it can happen....

It takes the practicing of ALL these basic principles...in ALL our affairs....

...then.......we will suddenly realize God is doing for us...what we could not do for ourselves........and this may happen over and over again and again and again....

....it's already started, melissa, with you, but the eye cannot see itself....

.......then....now.......to the book.......

................http://whytehouse.com/big_book_searc...+have+returned

...the last sentence in the first paragraph is a promise......I never was much on promises.......cuz I always thought promises were made to be broken, but that's how I was raised.......today, my word or promise is all I really have....

The "by this time sanity will have returned" is in chapter 6 "into action". Step 10. It's at the bottom of the page.

pg. 85 quote.......(step 10) "Every day is a day when we must carry the vision of God’s will into all of our activities. “How can I best serve Thee-Thy will (not mine) be done.”

My personal opinion?.....Step 11, done just like the book says to do it, is like taking a valium or xanax.

But first I had to learn how to trust God........hmmmmmmm.........I just pray...and hope I'm heard..........and I have been.......for many years.....

I still apply these steps in my life everyday....just not as an "AA fanatic"....

I like the Big Book....It taught me a basic "proper" new way to live.....and helps bring peace.......within..............

..................sparrow


......

[madisgram]

mel your higher power is doing his work with you already creating a miracle. step 2 was difficult for me too. and yes willingness-openness- is all you need to be right now. soon you will recognize the miracle that has taken place, not by your doing but the higher power doing it. it was suggested to me to not struggle but realize the end result-sobriety- was not initially my doing. the miracle is already there in your life. you will learn that just by continuing to stay sober you're already doing the footwork to create a new foundation in your life. imo he just started you in the right direction. now you can be assured you are not alone spiritually anymore.

[DelusionsDaily]

So how does one "come to believe" exactly?

[noneedtoknow]

Come. (show up)
Come to (awaken-new thoughts/new practices)
Come to Believe (Over time and practicing the steps/principles you will come to believe. It is a process.....And I believe the book talks about honesty and open-mindedness-with these we are well on our way.

God could and would if he were sought (Sought, not necessarily found)

It is the hope and belief that you could be restored-again a process

I like the end of step two in the 12x12-Every AA meeting is an assurance that God will restore us to sanity if we rightly relate ourselves to him. (Sorry, dont have 12x12 with me, but I believe that's close)
Keep Putting one foot in front of the other!!!!
Part of doing step 2 is exactly what you are doing-asking others their experience, strength and hope. Reading BB and 12x12 step 2-you might want to read "Came to believe" a AA book about other peoples's experience with comming to believe.

and God doesn't have to be a he.... just saying

How?.....you say?........honesty-open mindedness and willingness........

"There is a principle which is a bar against all informa -
tion, which is proof against all arguments and which cannot fail to keep a man in everlasting ignorance --
that principle is contempt prior to investigation."
- HERBERT SPENCER

......http://whytehouse.com/big_book_searc...spiritual2.asp

[DelusionsDaily]

Thank you all for your help. I really appreciate it.

[shortandcute]

I think the openness is at least a good start. Just go with that for now. I believe God knows how you feel anyway, and He knows that we are human and that we struggle with certain concepts. But the main thing is that you are open and willing--He can help you with the rest. And be patient with yourself--God is!