Step 6 and 7: The Daily Work of Practicing Opposites. – Myers R.

About This Speaker Tape

Myers R. offers candid, practical guidance on active 12-step work and sponsorship. He stresses that AA only treats alcoholism, urging newcomers to prioritize the program over external problems.

Myers explains how to identify a 'real drunk' using Page 44, emphasizing the urgency of vigorous engagement with the program, even in treatment. He shares personal disciplines like daily prayer in his garden and continuous 6th and 7th Step inventory. The talk delves into complex amends, balancing service with family life, and the critical role of the Traditions in group health.

Myers advocates for leaving toxic meetings, starting new ones, and detaching from others' programs, even a spouse's. He humorously recounts his prayer for a Porsche met by a van, illustrating Higher Power's will and the selfish nature of misdirected prayer.

Topics

Timestamps

• 0:40 Prioritizing alcoholism over external problems like relationships or finances.
• 2:00 Responsibility to carry the message proactively, not just wait in meetings.
• 3:00 Leaving toxic meetings and fostering new, healthy group environments.
• 3:50 Sponsees' willingness is key; not taking their lack of sobriety personally.
• 4:30 Daily spiritual practice: morning garden prayer and nightly 10th Step inventory.
• 5:00 Continuous 6th and 7th Step work: identifying defects and practicing their opposites.
• 7:00 Distinguishing one's own selfish will from Higher Power's will (Porsche vs. Van).
• 8:30 Expediting 12-Step work with newcomers, especially those in treatment.
• 9:30 Qualifying an alcoholic with direct questions, focusing on power and choice.
• 10:30 Advice for alcoholic couples: avoid sponsoring spouse, detach, consult Al-Anon.
• 11:50 The crucial role of Traditions for AA's unity and group health.
• 13:30 Making difficult amends, including universal amends for the deceased, without causing further harm.
• 17:00 Sponsorship Demands action; no progress beyond the 3rd Step means no sponsorship.
• 19:15 Differentiating an alcoholic from a heavy drinker through specific questions about control and enjoyment.
• 22:00 Strategically balancing 12-step service with family commitments (e.g., limiting speaking engagements).