Workshop: The Root of Our Troubles - Charlie and Katie P
Oct 12, 2023
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Charlie and Katie P, workshop leaders, discuss the importance of understanding powerlessness and severity of alcoholism, the concept of self-will and conflict, acceptance in the recovery process, letting go of old ideas, and the significance of sponsorship in AA.
Self-centeredness is the root of alcoholism, leading to constant collision with others and lack of satisfaction.
Surrendering to a higher power reduces self-centeredness and fear, allowing access to new power and peace of mind.
Maintaining a close relationship with a higher power and surrendering self-will are crucial for successful recovery and transformation in attitude.
Deep dives
Understanding the root of the problem
The podcast explores the concept of self-centeredness as the root of the problem in alcoholism. It emphasizes how self-will and selfishness lead to constant collision with others and the inability to find satisfaction and happiness. The speaker shares personal experiences and highlights how this self-centeredness can manifest in various ways, such as trying to control others or seeking approval and validation. This understanding is crucial in realizing the need for a higher power and surrendering one's self-will.
The shift in mindset
The podcast discusses the importance of recognizing the need to quit playing God and surrendering to a higher power. It explains that by taking this position, individuals become less self-centered and more focused on contributing to life. This shift in mindset allows individuals to access new power, experience peace of mind, and overcome fear. It highlights the significance of maintaining a conscious presence of God in daily life and accepting His will rather than trying to control everything.
The terms of the deal with God
The podcast outlines the terms of the relationship between an individual and their higher power. It emphasizes the need to stay close to God and perform His work well in order to receive what is needed. This entails letting go of self-will and allowing God to be the director of one's life. The podcast highlights that this decision and reliance on God's power are essential for a successful recovery and a transformation in attitude and perspective.
The transformative power of surrender
The podcast emphasizes that true freedom and relief from self-centeredness and addiction come with the surrender of self to a higher power. This surrender involves abandoning oneself utterly to God and trusting in His will. It discusses how this surrender leads to a new attitude towards alcohol and life, without any effort or thought focused on getting loaded. The podcast concludes by highlighting that this surrender and reliance on God's power is the key to finding peace, overcoming difficulties, and being a living testament of God's power and love.
Recognizing Self-Centeredness
Self-centeredness is a common trait among alcoholics, and the delusional nature of the disease often makes it difficult to see it in oneself. However, through hearing the stories of others and getting help from a sponsor, alcoholics can begin to recognize their own self-centeredness. Even with years of sobriety, self-centeredness can still be present and blind individuals to their own behaviors. The recognition of self-centeredness is an important step towards recovery.
Letting Go of Old Ideas
The speaker reflects on the importance of letting go of old ideas in the recovery process. While some old ideas, like a strong work ethic, can be beneficial, others can hinder personal growth and relationships. The fourth step inventory helps identify common manifestations of self-centeredness, such as resentment and fear. By examining the impact of these old ideas on self-esteem, pride, and ambitions, individuals can better understand the role self-centeredness plays in their lives and work towards change.
Charlie and Katie P are conducting a workshop on the topic of The Root of Our Troubles at the Sweet Home Alabama Roundup held in 2012. Charlie and Katie have led workshops all over the world for many years, this one runs just a bit over an hour.
If you have an AA roundup, retreat, convention or workshop coming up, we would be happy to give you a shout out here on the podcast and list the event on the Sober Cast website. Visit the link above and look for "Submit Your Event" in the blue box.
Sober Cast has 2300+ episodes available, visit SoberCast.com to access all the episodes where you can easily find topics or specific speakers using tags or search. https://sobercast.com
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