Hi Live!
Curious, were you diagnosed by a therapist with your bipolar? I think it makes sense to see selfishness as a symptom. In terms of alcoholism there are many who believe selfishness and alcoholism are irrevocably tied together...I have a hard time with that, since one of the reasons I drank was because I spent so much of myself doing for others instead of doing anything for myself.
I'm all for a HP, and rely heavily on mine, but I don't think a belief in a HP (by any definition) is necessary for recovery.
Zen, I'm jealous you are going to an art class! I posted some of my paintings in my profile here if you ever want to see...I'd love to see your stuff too:-)
I agree bottoms are relative...but as I said, I'm pretty sure I didn't hit mine, and I don't think that means that I am doomed to failure.