The Step 2 phrase "came to believe" suggests a process and a progression of faith that evolves over time. A portion of A.A.'s oral tradition defines this as a three-part unfolding: First, we came, that is, we showed up and stumbled in the door. Second, we came to, that is, we sobered up, came to our senses, and began to experience emotional sobriety. Third, we came to believe. We began our real recovery process and our spiritual growth.
- Serenity, A Companion for Twelve Step Recovery, p. 29
It was/is a process, a gradual process for me. My higher power started out as the people in the rooms of 12-step programs. Something was working for them; I wanted what they had. It progressed from there to my HP today, a loving God as I understand him.
