Do you struggle with the God language in the 12 steps? Josh did. His inability to fully engage with the steps was probably a factor in his relapses.
Josh talks with us about a couple of recovery programs based on Buddhist principles, centered on meditative practices. These programs are Recovery Dharma and Refuge Recovery.
Our discussion was wide-ranging, centered on these topics:
- What is a meeting like?
- How did you come to these programs?
- How are they similar to 12-step recovery programs?
- Both have group settings where members share.
- Both have an underlying spiritual practice.
- Recovery Dharma/Refuge Recovery have “inquiries” — similar to inventory
- Mentors (like sponsor)
- Literature
- Speakers in AA / Teachers in Dharma
- Endorsement / encouragement from recovery programs (e.g. court papers)
- How do they differ?
- Spiritual foundation is different.
- Recovery Dharma incorporates some modern psychology elements. Especially in dealing with trauma.
- Do you have to be Buddhist to participate?
- How do they speak to you / support you in your own recovery?
- Would this recovery program be helpful to someone whose primary problem is co-dependency?
Readings and Links
Josh read from the AA book Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, page 98.
Upcoming topics
A listener asked for a topic about how atheists, agnostics, and people with other spiritual programs can work the 12 steps. Can you share your experience? Please call us at 734-707-8795 or email feedback@therecovery.show with your questions or experience, strength and hope. Or just leave a comment right here.