In our ongoing journey through the 12 Steps of Al Anon, we arrive at Step 7, which encourages us to humbly ask our Higher Power to remove our shortcomings. While succinct in its wording, this step is profound in its demands and implications. It challenges us to embrace humility, not as humiliation, but as self-acceptance and the acknowledgment of our limitations. Spencer and Mary explore our understanding and experience with this Step.







Understanding Humility







Humility is often misunderstood as humiliation, which is far from its true meaning within the context of spiritual growth. Step 7 nudges us towards self-acceptance, understanding that while we recognize our limitations, our transformation is not solely in our hands. Accepting that a Higher Power can do for us what we cannot do for ourselves fosters the humility necessary for change.







In Step 7, we explore the deeper aspects of relying on a Higher Power. True humility is about relinquishing self-will and placing our trust and futures in the hands of a Higher Power. This step is not about handing over a wishlist of changes, but about letting go of control and trusting that the right changes will emerge in due course.







Taking Action







While asking for help is crucial, Step 7 also involves action on our part. It's not merely about making a request but actively working to change our behaviors. As we ask for our shortcomings to be removed, we must be willing to practice new responses and habits, recognizing that our Higher Power provides us with opportunities to change.







We share stories of overcoming fear and perfectionism, discovering that our need for control or our desire for perfection can both hinder and help us. It's about finding balance, realizing that some traits are both assets and shortcomings.







Continuous Practice







As with all the steps, Step 7 is not a one-time action but a continual process. Each meeting, connection with others, and daily challenge presents an opportunity to humbly seek guidance and change. The journey with our Higher Power is ongoing, and the transformation it leads to is gradual but deeply rewarding.







Step 7 is an invitation to develop true humility and to embrace the continuous practice of seeking our Higher Power's guidance. By letting go of self-will and practicing faith and patience, we slowly shed our excess baggage, stepping further along our path of recovery and self-discovery. Through Step 7, we learn the vital lesson that by asking for help, and being open to change, we unlock the doors to personal growth.







Readings and Links







We read from How Al-Anon Works, Chapter 8 “The Twelve Steps”, section “Step 7”. Additional readings were taken from Paths to Recovery, pp 73-74 (Step 7).







Upcoming topics







We will be continuing our journey through the 12 Steps with Steps 8 – 12. 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.



















Transcript

















[00:00:00 ] Spencer: In step seven, we humbly ask our higher power to remove our shortcomings. What does this mean in practice?







[00:00:08 ] Welcome to episode 425 of The Recovery Show. This episode is brought to you by Sandra, Leslie, Brandy, and John. They used the donation button on our website.