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Managing Overwhelming Emotions
Emotions can surge like a tidal wave, and thoughts can persist like a tenacious echo. Each on its own is potent enough to engender a sense of loss of control that can be truly terrifying. The Perfect Storm of Thoughts and Emotions Sometimes, however, we experience the perfect storm: a powerful convergence of overwhelming emotions…
The Power of Anonymity
Recently, The New York Times published an article titled, “Challenging the Second ‘A’ in A.A” by David Colman, which raised questions about the relevance and value of anonymity in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Questioning the ‘Anonymous’ in AA The article pondered the potential harm, if any, caused by a person openly admitting their participation in AA…
Beyond Positive Thinking
Several years ago, a best-seller called “The Secret” made waves in the self-help arena. This book suggested that the key to success and happiness lies in positive thinking and expectation, a concept that has been presented in many forms and repackaged in various philosophies. Why Positive Thinking Falls Short For individuals involved in Alcoholics Anonymous…
The Irony of Prayer
Often people pray for others. When there is nothing else to say or do, as in a troubling or tragic situation, people often say, “I’ll pray for you.” This is a kind thing to say as many people believe that God or a Higher Power responds directly to prayers and petitions. Whether or not this is the…
The Serenity Prayer in Recovery
The Serenity Prayer is one of the most cherished prayers in the recovery community. Its simplicity and profundity provide a beacon of hope and a guidepost for those striving to overcome addiction. Universally accepted across various faiths, it carries a profound message about peace of mind, the willingness to act, and humility. A Pursuit of…
The Pitfalls of Judgment
In Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), the act of “judging” someone is euphemistically referred to as “taking their inventory.” The Illusion of Judgement While sitting in a meeting, looking at another member, and listening to what they say, it’s easy to make hasty and ill-informed judgments. However, it’s crucial to understand that people’s pasts often significantly influence…
Religion vs. Spirituality
The oft-repeated cliche in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings is, “Religion is for those afraid of hell, and spirituality is for those who have been there.” Debating these cliches may seem futile, but their prevalence suggests an underlying truth that resonates deeply with people. The Intersection of Spirituality and Religion It’s undeniable that clear distinctions exist…
Welcome to Pause When Agitated!
A resourceful platform dedicated to guiding you through the journey of recovery with Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Whether you’re a newcomer starting your sobriety journey or an old-timer strengthening your resolve, our aim is to make the path less daunting.