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It
is a basic claim of the various twelve step programs for combating
addiction that the addict must first admit that he has a problem and
that he is powerless to save himself.
What
postpones treatment is either denial—I don’t have a problem—or the
conviction that one can solve this on his own. I can stop drinking any
time I want; I can stop gambling whenever I decide.
Usually,
it is only when someone hits bottom, when things just get out of
control, that he admits that he is wrestling with something he can’t
solve.
Once
admitting that he is powerless over the addiction, he turns his life
over to a higher power. This move is of great significance. I realize
that I have to de-center my ego, re-orient my life, surrender, become
passive in the presence of a power greater than I.
Is
this difficult? Yes. Which is precisely why so few people can manage
it. The Advent term for this re-orientation of the self is “waiting.”
“O
come, O come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel, that mourns in
lonely exile here until the Son of God appear.” Move into the rhythm and
meaning of that prayer.
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