If you have deep religious convictions, hearing that you need to believe in a power greater than yourself in order to recover may make a lot of sense. But if you are an atheist or agnostic, or if your faith has been shaken by tragedy or loss, you may be resistant to the idea of relying on a higher power. For many, faith in a higher power is the core of their recoveries. However, there are many ways to define a power greater than yourself.
The Freedom to Choose Your Higher Power
The good news is that you have complete freedom to define your own higher power. You don’t have to follow the path of traditional religions, and you don’t have to believe in anything specific just because others do. You can choose to believe in anything that makes sense to you and gives you strength, courage, and something to hold onto.
Nature as a Higher Power
Some people in recovery find a power greater than themselves in nature. The sun, stars, wind, and ocean waves can all serve as reminders of a commanding force in the universe. The transformation that occurs every season can be a powerful symbol of change and renewal. You can choose Mother Nature or the universe itself as your higher power.
Belief in the Group
For those resistant to the idea of God or even the power of nature, consider believing in the unity of the recovery group itself. Many people in recovery say that God stands for “Group of Drunks,” and it is this collective power that keeps them sober and heals their lives.
There is something transformative and healing when a group of people struggling with addiction gets together and shares their experiences, strengths, and hopes. As you get to know the people at meetings, you will witness amazing changes in others that are nothing short of miraculous. It’s often easier to recognize change and growth in others than in yourself. Seeing these transformations can help you believe that there really is a power greater than yourself, embodied in the group.
Other Forms of Faith
When you attend meetings with an open mind, you will hear many interpretations of what God or a higher power is. The definitions are as varied as the people recovering in 12-step programs. While you may not agree with everything you hear, you may also encounter perspectives you never considered before.
You may not be comfortable with the concept of God as defined by any church or religious establishment. Instead, you may believe that the power keeping you sober is some kind of spiritual force that can’t be defined or described but is undeniably present. Faith may be as simple as recognizing that there is a higher power and that it isn’t you.
Evolving Beliefs
Your definition of a higher power may evolve over time. Your convictions may seem strong and unwavering now, but your beliefs may change slightly as you grow in recovery. You have the freedom to redefine your higher power in whatever way works for you. Believe that there is some sort of power that helps keep you away from a drink or drug one day at a time. If all else fails, simply believe that others believe.
Defining your higher power in addiction recovery is a personal journey. Whether you find it in nature, in the unity of the group, or in an undefined spiritual force, what matters is that it provides you with the strength and courage to maintain your sobriety. Keep an open mind, allow your beliefs to evolve, and find the support you need in whatever higher power resonates with you. Remember, you have the freedom to define this power in a way that makes sense for you and supports your journey to recovery.