Paul M. at the Derelict’s Retreat – 2017

About This Speaker Tape

Derelict's Retreat - 2017

Paul M. opens with a chaotic morning where a drunk stranger stumbled into his hotel room using the moment to pivot into a discussion on the freedom found in recovery. He traces his roots in Northern Ireland during the Troubles contrasting the political freedom he marched for with the actual spiritual freedom from the bondage of self. Paul dismantles the illusion of the 'chosen one,' reflecting on the tragedy of those who drink themselves to death in the bars where he once worked. He emphasizes the 'triangle' of unity service and recovery as the only way to stay 'on the beam.' Steve L. follows exploring the paradox of the 'professional' speaker who can become disconnected from his own story. Steve cuts through the ego of the 'dancing bear,' admitting to a profound loneliness that persisted even years into sobriety and the fear of embarrassment that once kept him from joining others for lunch.

Topics

Timestamps

• 0:45 Laughter: Paul tells the story of a drunk stranger entering his hotel room.
• 4:15 Paul discusses the difference between political freedom in Northern Ireland and spiritual freedom.
• 8:30 Paul reflects on the 'unchosen'—those who drink themselves to death.
• 12:10 Paul explains the 'triangle' of unity, service, and recovery.
• 16:45 Paul uses the Terminator 2 metaphor to describe the alcoholic ego.
• 21:30 Paul shares a story about a difficult divorce and Bob's simple advice.
• 26:15 Steve L. begins his talk, discussing the trap of 'regurgitating' past experiences.
• 31:00 Steve discusses the 11th Step and the danger of becoming 'casual' with prayer and meditation.
• 35:45 Steve describes the 'gut punch' of being told he was lonely by a therapist.
• 39:20 Steve shares his fear of joining others for lunch at Shoney's.
• 44:10 Steve discusses the 'bondage of self' and the 3rd Step prayer.
• 48:30 Applause: Steve concludes his talk with a poem about finding a union with a Higher Power through others.