We had a guest speaker in my Human Services class from a local rehab center. He spoke of providing 'tools' for the addict/alcoholic. One of these tools is the various 12 step programs. After speaking we asked questions.
I asked if they introduced alternatives to the 12 steps. He said 'Yes, we offer alternatives but the reason we use the 12 steps is because it is proven, affordable (free), and available.'
He then mentioned how many have issues with the 'god' concept.
Yeah, yeah, I know, its a 'spiritual' not 'religious' program. I know that a doorknob can be your Higher Power. But WHAT are the alternatives? (i didn't verbalize this to him)
Dammit! Those steps are NOT for everyone. Sometimes they DO NOT work even when you work them. (i did not verbalize this either)
Why do people get SO defensive about the program when it hasn't even been attacked? It was as if he was fearful that something else MIGHT work. If ANYTHING helps an addict/alcoholic live a fulfilling life of happiness and does it without harming others, shouldn't it be explored and cultivated?
Why didn't he answer my question? I wasn't attacking but simply was thinking of those that fall through the cracks of the program. What about them? The program is not the answer for everyone so therefore we need more answers.
I thought the guy was cool but I got the impression that by asking my question that perhaps he became uncomfortable. He has been in recovery for 20+ years so I can understand the 12 and 12 being close to his heart. But why so dodgy? WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES THAT YOU OFFER?
I just wish he would have answered my question.
I asked if they introduced alternatives to the 12 steps. He said 'Yes, we offer alternatives but the reason we use the 12 steps is because it is proven, affordable (free), and available.'
He then mentioned how many have issues with the 'god' concept.
Yeah, yeah, I know, its a 'spiritual' not 'religious' program. I know that a doorknob can be your Higher Power. But WHAT are the alternatives? (i didn't verbalize this to him)
Dammit! Those steps are NOT for everyone. Sometimes they DO NOT work even when you work them. (i did not verbalize this either)
Why do people get SO defensive about the program when it hasn't even been attacked? It was as if he was fearful that something else MIGHT work. If ANYTHING helps an addict/alcoholic live a fulfilling life of happiness and does it without harming others, shouldn't it be explored and cultivated?
Why didn't he answer my question? I wasn't attacking but simply was thinking of those that fall through the cracks of the program. What about them? The program is not the answer for everyone so therefore we need more answers.
I thought the guy was cool but I got the impression that by asking my question that perhaps he became uncomfortable. He has been in recovery for 20+ years so I can understand the 12 and 12 being close to his heart. But why so dodgy? WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES THAT YOU OFFER?
I just wish he would have answered my question.
