I don't understand...

[RocketsintheSky]

I know that sometimes it takes people a year to even get through step one, or two, or etc. So I know there must be more to completing these steps, but like the first step, I admit this, I admit I am powerless over ritalin and my life became unmanageable, what more is there to completing this step? I guess I technically have not come out to my family quite yet, but once I do and I fully admit I am an addict, would that be completing step one? Or is it more deep then that? Thanks

[Missybuns]

yes it is "deeper" but let's not complicate it.....however let's not pass over it with a minimum of concern.

the step in NA reads "we admitted we were powerless over addiction, that our lives had become unmanageable."

The use of drugs is a symptom of addiction, not the cause...it's the effect.
The nature of the disease is mental (obsession) and becomes physical (ingesting drugs) and spiritual (self-centeredness).

In recovery the first step is to learn exactly what we were powerless over. Learning this actually empowers us and brings us to the acceptance we need to move on with our lives without using. This information helps us in the present with what we do and don't have control over. It is only in the present we make our choice to use or not. (just for today)

I did the very same thing....when I first took a look at the steps I read it the same way!

"I admit I am powerless over drugs and my life is unmanageable."

If you really look at it.....it's quite different than how it is actually written.

When I took the actual meaning to heart and realized the different interpretation I'd come up with on my own...I had a "deeper" surrender and knew I needed help from the others.

We get sponsors so they can guide us through these things...much like what I have done here with you.

Make sense?

I use a dictionary. A LOT!
After doing just exactly what we've talked about here....it was proof I needed one! Not only am I very careful about how I am reading the literature....I make sure I am not assuming I know certain definitions of specific words!

Peace,
Missy

[kj3880]

It does seem simple, but as you work through the next couple of steps, your understanding of your powerlessness over drugs and your surrender to the program of NA become deeper. The steps are in their order for a reason, and I was amazed at the happiness and difference in my life just from doing the first 3.

Love,
KJ

[EDWARD19751217]

Im starting my first step. I have been clean for almost two months and I have to admit that staying clean for your first time its feels like the hardest thing to do. I constantly have this feeling that the cravings is not going to stop. I mind is being occupied mostly by how is this going to be possible. Im still struggling to sleep. And when I lie awake in the evening I curse the fact that I had to be addicted that made me feel this way. I know that the feeling is going to stop and I know if I follow my steps everything will turn out for the better. Im not suppose to say so but its hell to stop. Im not trying to scare anyone who is in the same position as I am, but this is how I feel. I go to regular meetings and its helping. We just have to be strong and believe that we will get through it. Peace!

[kj3880]

The cravings for me didn't magically cease. It took time. To be honest, as far as cravings, they went away before I ever started step work. The steps are more about staying clean, not getting clean, at least for me. Here is what helped with cravings for me:

1. Lots of meetings and service. Lack of free time works!
2. Being around other recovering addicts all the time. They monitored my behavior and would physically keep me from buying or using drugs.
3. Having phone numbers of other people in recovery to call when I was alone helped tremendously. Reaching out is key for me.
4. Picking up my key tags gave me a sense of pride. I didn't want to lose my clean month over a quick, one-night high.
5. I got a bunch of speaker tapes and played them when I got a bad craving. One that is especially helpful was Brownie from New York, if you can get your hands on it. You can go on the XA web site (just google XA) to make some if you have a burner, or just want to listen to them on your computer.
6. I had to work my recovery the way I did drugs...every day, all the time. If I didn't, I would have relapsed. As far as I know, it is like that for everyone.
7. When I get the occasional craving now, I pray.

Love,
KJ

[EDWARD19751217]

Thanks Kj I will definately try.

Edward