[RobbyRobot]

Originally Posted by Pagekeeper

....I’m not a scientist, but I have always been fascinated by the Theory of Evolution, and I’ve read somewhat extensively on the subject, so I do understand a few things....

I find the 12 steps to be very compatible with evolution. I believe the steps are a form of "intelligent design” in the sense that they are man-made. I also believe natural selection and evolution are powers greater than myself. The steps, to me, are a form of natural selection which results in the evolution of character, or a personality change. They are also a cumulative process--it's many small changes that gradually take place over a very long period of time. Of course, the amount of change depends on how much effort I put into it. In step 4, I’m essentially looking for those personality traits which cause me problems. Through steps 5, 6 and 7, I use a process to remove them—first, I become aware of them consciously, then I begin to notice when I’m acting those traits out, next I begin to change my behavior so that the trait becomes unnecessary, and finally I’m free from the behavior or very rarely having as much trouble with it. Essentially I’m getting rid of those personality traits which benefited me while I was drunk but that no longer benefit me if I want to live sober. If I don't try to get rid of these traits, or at least make vast improvements upon them, I may drink again because I often use the consequences of these behaviors as excuses to pick up a drink, and the fewer excuses I have to drink, the less of a chance that I will.

So in order for me, as an alcoholic, to "survive" the harsh environment of my illness (alcoholism) I’ve tried to select and discard (or vastly improve upon) those traits which make me vulnerable to the elements of my illness: having the obsession, the emotional triggers, and those insane moments of rationalizing my drinking.

Thanks for reading.

Page,

It's amazing just how personally intuitive the 12 Steps can be for each of us when we are willing; informing one person to another, without leaving any one of us abandoned or wanting; supporting those who have a deep desire to embrace the Steps. At the end of the day, what works works.

Its a big big world for all of us. How very cool that you have found *your* foundational rock to stand on!



RR