Step 5 and the Jesuit Priest’s Definition of Heaven – Steve M.

About This Speaker Tape

District 20 - 2004

A white car in Washington a bar in Nebraska and a military discharge for being a 'misfit' form the wreckage of Steve M.'s early years. He describes the chaotic ecosystem of Bill's Bar in Fremont where men like Leonard L. performed feats of strength by lifting barstools while crawling on their hands and knees. After a series of desperate runs to California and a near-fatal tractor-trailer accident Steve found a lifeline through a woman named Libby and a 12-step call from Bob B. He reflects on the paradox of the 'alcoholic's asset'—the absolute wreckage of his past—and how the principles of the program provided a cocoon of protection. From the depths of a state hospital in Hastings to raising daughters in sobriety Steve views his life as a debt that can never be fully repaid pledging to serve the fellowship as long as he can 'suck air.'

Topics

Timestamps

• 0:00 Steve M. opens with a joke about the timing of meetings in North Carolina.
• 2:30 Laughter: Discussion of pro wrestling fans and a woman who preferred Star Trek over wrestling.
• 6:15 Steve describes the structure of his home group in Raleigh and their study of AA history.
• 11:20 A story about a boxer crossing himself and the practical advice of a priest: 'It'll help him if he can fight.'
• 16:45 The 'Bill's Bar' chronicles: descriptions of Leonard L. and the culture of drinking in Fremont, Nebraska.
• 23:10 Steve recounts his military experience, his 'misfit' discharge, and his time in Vietnam.
• 31:40 The turning point: Libby's intervention and the first 12-step call from Bob B. in November 1974.
• 36:15 Steve discusses the 'disease concept' and the nature of the illness of alcoholism.
• 42:20 A story about the 'wrong white car' and the absurdity of active addiction.
• 51:10 Reflection on his great-aunt's role in his sobriety and the importance of public service.
• 56:30 Discussion of the 'cocoon of Alcoholics Anonymous' and the impossibility of drinking when practicing principles.
• 1:02:15 Closing thoughts on gratitude and the commitment to serve as long as he can 'suck air.'