Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
THE BASIC spiritual principle introduced in Step Two suggests that there is a Power greater than we are that provides hope for sanity, whether we are living with active alcoholism or not. Step Two reaffirms that we may be powerless, but we are not helpless, and we are not alone. For many of us, the introduction of a Power greater than ourselves is difficult to understand. Some initially believe we are speaking of a religious entity. We are not. We are speaking of a loving, caring, nurturing Power that provides us with guidance in dealing with the effects of the disease of alcoholism.
As we consider Step Two, it is often helpful to remember that “Came to believe” is written in the past tense. Like all the Steps, Step Two tells the experience of those who have gone before us and shows that over time we can find the answers to our own dilemmas. Few of us walked into our first meeting firmly convinced that there was a Power greater than ourselves that could bring good into our lives. If there was, why were we so unhappy and confused? Belief grows as we open our minds enough to consider that a spiritual resource could help us with our problems. We listen to the experience of others and want what they have: peace, serenity, happiness, faith, and joy. Many members, though filled with plenty of doubts, are willing to seek other possibilities. Willingness to listen and consider an alternative—even a Higher Power—that others have tried opens a door to Step Two.
With Step Two and the support of a loving fellowship, we begin to learn how to recognize and accept our own part in the family disease of alcoholism. In Al-Anon the love and acceptance we find helps us learn to love and accept ourselves with all our imperfections.
Acceptance of Step Two is paramount to working the rest of the Al-Anon Steps. Tripping over Step Two and skipping to other Steps indicates a lack of acceptance of Step One. Many members have difficulty in beginning to work this Step for their personal recovery. Attendance at meetings is only a start; we need the guidance of a Sponsor in addition to our group. The wisdom of members who have worked these Steps before us is essential to understanding fully the spiritual answers and guidance we are about to experience. Trusting our group and trusting a Sponsor are truly stepping stones to accepting a Power greater than
