Devin C Working With Others at Common Solution Group 01-04-23

·56 min·5 clips

Devin describes becoming suicidal at 24 because life was miserable drunk and miserable sober, leading him to Alcoholics Anonymous.

The episode features Devin, a speaker from the Common Solution Group, sharing his personal recovery story and leading a discussion on Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous. He begins by introducing himself as a recovered alcoholic with a sobriety date of August 28, 2011, and describes his early drinking experiences, including alcohol poisoning and a suicidal low point at age 24. Devin explains how he first encountered AA through service at a 28-day facility and later sought out meetings on his own in Brooklyn. He details a three-month period of powerlessness where he attended meetings daily but continued drinking, culminating in a meeting where he admitted he would drink unless surrounded by others, marking the start of his sobriety. Devin then transitions to discussing the Big Book chapter 'Working with Others,' reading key passages and offering commentary. He emphasizes that sponsorship is not optional but a vital part of recovery, citing Bill's story about spiritual growth through helping others. Devin provides historical context for the chapter, noting it was written when AA was less widespread, and offers modern applications, such as seeking newcomers through doctors or clergy in small communities. He outlines the Big Book's guidelines for 12-step calls, including how to initiate conversations, share personal stories, and avoid moralizing. Devin shares anecdotes from his sponsorship experiences, including successes like a sponsee becoming a U.S. citizen and challenges like a relapse after seven and a half years. He stresses the importance of tailoring approaches to individuals and using everyday language to discuss spiritual principles. The episode concludes with Devin summarizing the chapter's advice on not forcing help on others and letting desire for change come from within, reinforcing that AA's primary purpose is one alcoholic helping another.

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