Every day since joining my fellows on the journey of sobriety through AA, I have strived to embody and live by the Twelve Principles to the best of my ability. These principles have become my compass, offering direction and clarity as I navigate both the challenges and triumphs that life presents. In the past, my life was defined by a sense of powerlessness over alcohol and the destructive behaviours it fuelled, but through this journey, I have learnt to admit and accept this powerlessness, which has been a pivotal step in breaking the cycle that once consumed me.
Embracing hope has opened the door to belief in a higher power—one that I trust will continue to restore me to sanity and guide me on this path of recovery. Surrendering to this belief was not easy at first, but it has brought me a profound sense of peace and trust in something greater than myself. Through humility, I’ve come to recognise my own limitations, acknowledging that my shortcomings were obstacles holding me back. The process of letting go and asking for the removal of these defects has been transformative, opening me up to the potential for real change.
Courage has played a crucial role in this journey as well. It takes bravery to face my past, to look directly at the mistakes I’ve made and the harm I’ve caused both to myself and others. Integrity compels me to go a step further—to own those mistakes, make amends wherever possible, and live with a sense of honesty and accountability. It is not enough just to recognise the wrongs; there must be action, driven by a sincere desire to heal and grow. Willingness has allowed me to be open to the sometimes difficult changes that recovery demands, and humility reminds me that this is a process, one that requires constant effort and openness.
Brotherly love has been one of the greatest gifts of this programme. It has connected me with a fellowship of individuals who understand my struggles in a way that only those who have walked the same path can. The unwavering support, understanding, and acceptance from this community have become a lifeline. These bonds, formed through shared experiences, have given me a profound sense of belonging, and for the first time in a long while, I do not feel alone in my struggles. Instead, I am surrounded by people who truly get it, and who are committed to walking this path together.
Continuing to work the Twelve-Step programme has been vital to my recovery. Each step offers new insights and challenges, and each time I go through the process, I uncover more about myself, my patterns, and the areas where I still need to grow. These principles aren’t just abstract ideas; they are living practices that keep me grounded and centred, especially when life throws difficulties my way. Prayer and meditation have become essential tools, deepening my connection to a higher power and providing a space where I can reflect, ask for guidance, and build the self-discipline needed to stay on course.
By consistently practising these principles, I have experienced a profound transformation in my life. Every day offers me an opportunity to align my actions, thoughts, and intentions with the values I’ve learnt. As I continue to live this way, I’ve found an inner peace that once seemed out of reach, along with a renewed sense of purpose and fulfilment. The freedom I’ve gained from the chains of addiction is indescribable—what once felt like an endless cycle of despair has now been replaced by the possibility of joy, meaning, and connection.
Today, I am able to live a life filled with authenticity and intention. I am no longer bound by the darkness of my past but am instead empowered to create a future that reflects the person I want to be. The journey is ongoing, and it’s not without its challenges, but the foundation I’ve built through AA and the Twelve Steps provides me with the tools I need to navigate whatever comes next. In this newfound freedom, I’ve discovered that the life I once thought was unattainable is not only possible but within my grasp every day.
New Principles
Since joining AA’s journey, day by day,
I’ve strived to live the Twelve Principles’ way.
My compass, guiding through life’s ups and downs,
These principles offer clarity that crowns.
Once powerless, now I’ve found a way,
To break the cycle, come what may.
Embracing hope, I’ve found a higher power,
Restoring me, each passing hour.
Humility has shown me where I’ve erred,
And courage helped me face my greatest fear.
Integrity compels me to make amends,
And willingness to change, till the very end.
Brotherly love has been a gift so sweet,
A fellowship where understanding meets.
Support and acceptance, a lifeline true,
I’m no longer alone, I’m here for you.
The Twelve-Step program, a constant guide,
Uncovers depths within me, inside.
Prayer and meditation, tools to keep,
My spirit grounded, strong and deep.
A transformation, profound and true,
As I align my actions, thoughts anew.
Inner peace, once distant, now so near,
A life of purpose, free from fear.
The freedom gained, a precious prize,
A life of meaning, where joy resides.
Authenticity, intention, my new way,
A future bright, each brand new day.
