Thought for the Week

Timothy D. Stein, MFT, CSAT

January 29, 2018

Unmanageability in addiction is the train wreck.  Powerlessness is accepting that you cannot stop the train alone.

Step 1 asks us to accept that we are powerless and that our lives have become unmanageable.  Recognizing the unmanageability of our lives is important.  It is acknowledging the carnage we have heaped on ourselves as well as others.  However, embracing unmanageability is really only helpful in creating motivation and directing amends.  On the contrary, accepting our powerlessness creates change.  Acknowledging that I have tried and have been unable to consistently make changes on my own and, therefore, must open myself to the wisdom and guidance of others allows for change.  Accepting that we are powerless and need help from others helps prevent future train wrecks.

When have I admitted unmanageability but not embraced powerlessness?  What have been the consequences?  What gifts await me as I embrace powerlessness and allow others to guide me in true change?