Spiritual Principles – Sandy B.

About This Speaker Tape

The speaker, SANDY B., recounts his path to sobriety, noting his long-standing relationship with his sponsor. He guides newcomers by explaining that AA isn't about proving a Higher Power's existence, but about acknowledging the need for one. The core message centers on the spiritual shift: realizing alcohol was a 'solution' to an internal problem, and that the answer lies within—a peace that must flow out.

He details the struggle against ego, using the 'Chapter to the Agnostic' to show that true change means changing one's mind. The journey culminates in the realization that the only way forward is to surrender the self and become an instrument of grace.

Topics

Timestamps

• 0:00 Opening remarks: Speaker expresses gratitude for the message of recovery heard on Friday.
• 0:45 Sandy B. introduces himself, noting he's been sober since 1964 and advises newcomers to get a sponsor.
• 2:10 Discussion on spirituality: The speaker recounts his initial resistance to prayer or thinking about a Higher Power.
• 5:05 Focus on the 12th Step: The speaker discusses the prayer of St. Francis, correcting his initial self-centered interpretation of 'make me a channel of peace.'
• 10:00 The speaker shares his method for 'making' the Big Book look used, a humorous anecdote about preparation.
• 15:30 Discussion of the 'Chapter to the Agnostic,' noting its core message is to 'change your mind.'
• 22:00 The speaker recounts the story of Roland Hazard and Dr. Young, emphasizing that 'no human power could have relieved our alcoholism.'
• 35:00 The speaker uses the Boy Scout compass and airplane radio beam as metaphors for surrendering to an unseen guiding force.
• 48:00 Focus on the 10th Step: The speaker details the process of remaining 'undisturbed' and making amends.