Acceptance is the Answer

Since 1935, Alcoholics Anonymous has worked to help countless people face their substance misuse issues. The publication used by this organization is its “Big Book,” which explains the basis of the program and how it helps a person gain sobriety. “Acceptance is the answer” is a major concept discussed in this text. When an individual can accept a person, place, or thing that brings disturbance, serenity is possible. Accepting a problem like alcoholism helps a person explore treatment in a productive and healthy manner. Instead of changing the world, acceptance allows a person to change himself or herself so that it is possible to live a more harmonious life.[1]

Historical Context and Origin

AA’s first “Big Book” was introduced in 1939. Although updates have been made, one of the most influential stories remains. “Doctor, Alcoholic, Addict” was written by Dr. Paul.[2] He was a humorous and intelligent man who shared wisdom with his tale of drug use. He exposed that a professional could be an alcoholic and addict and explored the delicate paradigm between alcohol and drug addiction. His story helps individuals understand that both of these problems can strike together or separately. Dr. Paul concludes that acceptance is the answer, which gives fellow addicts hope and kickstarts recovery. Although acceptance is difficult, accepting a problem with alcohol misuse allows a person to heal and generate a plan to deal with the issue.

Understanding Acceptance in Recovery

Acceptance may be a foreign idea to someone who has an addiction problem. AA defines it as not using denial as a coping mechanism. To make meaningful changes, a person must accept that a problem is present. Also, it is key to comprehend that it is not possible to control every part of life, everyone has limitations, and the reality of addiction exists. As an individual accepts powerlessness and fears, he or she may become open to the possibility of recovery.

Acceptance is an active state that involves recognizing the reality of the circumstances, validating individual emotions, and seeking support. It should not be confused with resignation. In this passive state, a person feels defeated and unable to create change. Many times, it means that an individual has given up and does not recognize that overcoming challenges is possible.

The Role of Acceptance in Recovery

Often, denial is a way that people make themselves feel good at the moment. Individuals may rationalize behavior, repress feelings, and forget the bad things that are happening. Acceptance helps to overcome this denial and begins the healing process. It allows a person to let go of extreme control and focus on restoring a life of balance. Acceptance is a choice and is the foundation of AA’s “12-Step Program.” At the beginning of the recovery journey, a person admits a problem exists and is willing to start a realistic path forward. In this manner, an individual matures and can discard negative thoughts that keep him or her lost in the addiction cycle. Acceptance empowers a person to develop a new set of ideas. For example, he or she begins to realize that recovery takes time, relapses are possible, and support is available. In other words, acceptance provides hope and a sense of peace. When this is achieved, a person feels as though a great weight has been lifted.

Personal Stories and Testimonies

During every Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, a specific topic is discussed, or a speaker shares personal stories about his or her sobriety journey. After listening to people with similar problems, new members experience an overwhelming feeling of acceptance and fellowship. Everyone offers unconditional love, support, and encouragement, which forges a special connection. Often, AA members have emotions that involve shame, fear, and guilt. A camaraderie is formed between people who share a powerlessness over alcohol, accept imperfections, and recognize that hope for change is possible.

“Every addiction arises from an unconscious refusal to face and move through pain.”[3] This quote embodies the reasons behind alcoholism. AA meetings provide refuge for the loneliness that most addicts experience each day. Feeling accepted and not judged helps an individual face problems and make positive changes. Having the opportunity to watch others gain success is a strong catalyst as well. When a person feels emotionally safe, his or her guard may be dropped. This allows the transitional power of acceptance to grow.

Practical Ways to Cultivate Acceptance

Outside of AA meetings, it is essential to develop strategies that build a person’s self-acceptance. Even though it may take time, it is possible to increase an individual’s well-being.[4]

Practice Mindfulness

When an individual is mindful, he or she learns to understand the benefits of making mistakes. Also, it enhances the individual’s authentic personality. When a person stops judging his or her behaviors, the drinking problem can take focus.

Practice Internal Forgiveness

Acceptance is the idea that nobody is perfect. When a person can forgive himself or herself, negative emotions may disappear. This relieves tremendous worry and judgment. When the individual practices forgiveness, empathy, tolerance, and acceptance, he or she grows.

Practice Gratitude

Everyone has things that make them feel thankful. A home, food on the table, and family are all items that should bring feelings of gratitude. Positive thoughts balance negative feelings that cause a person to reach for alcohol. They increase self-love as well.

Become Surrounded by Good Influences

When a person is surrounded by support and positive influences, internal judgment decreases. The idea of being perfect fades as well. Spending time with a compassionate and positive group enhances self-acceptance.

One of the most important aspects of Alcoholics Anonymous is sponsorship. A sponsor is a person who has completed the program steps and offers support and guidance to new members. This relationship increases accountability and decreases feelings of loneliness. A member works closely with his or her sponsor to begin a journey of successful recovery. In the end, a sense of acceptance is created. A person begins to comprehend that overcoming alcoholism is not impossible.

Acceptance and the Serenity Prayer

The serenity prayer is centered around the ideas of wisdom, courage, acceptance, and peace. Usually, this prayer is said at the beginning of every AA meeting. It reminds members that certain things that cannot be controlled, and acceptance makes it easier to deal with life’s roadblocks.

Challenges in Practicing Acceptance

Many people who suffer from alcohol addiction resist change. Not facing problems is a way to avoid feelings of shame and guilt. However, acceptance is essential for successful recovery. There are common challenges that come with practicing acceptance. Identifying these difficulties and ways to overcome them will help a person deal with addiction.[5]

• Denial: Refusing to accept reality is a way to avoid emotions, especially pain and embarrassment. When an individual feels comfortable, he or she may admit a drinking problem exists. Acknowledging the issue is the first step of acceptance.
• Rationalization: When a person rationalizes his or her drinking problem, he or she tries to provide good reasons for the behavior. This protects the person from outside criticism. When an individual can identify the excuses he or she uses, it is possible to eliminate walls that keep the problem hidden. Keeping a journal helps a person see patterns of rationalization so that they can be curbed. In the end, self-awareness is heightened.
• Projection: As a person projects, he or she attributes unaccepted feelings and emotions to other people. In other words, the individual blames others for addictive behavior. The best way to overcome projection is to adopt self-curiosity without judgment. Pinpointing insecurities will help an individual concentrate on areas of doubt. This allows a person to accept shortcomings and react in positive ways.

Beyond Acceptance: Action and Change

Although acceptance is the first step of recovery, it must be balanced with change and growth. Recovery is an active process, which is why Alcoholics Anonymous is an effective tool that helps a person gain sobriety. All members must act proactively in meetings. This includes having positive attitudes and humble souls. Owning good and bad personal characteristics is the beginning of the journey. Each day brings struggles, but AA provides motivation to avoid temptation, helps maintain accountability, and keeps a person moving in a better direction.

Importance of Continued Growth and Development with Alcoholics Anonymous

To emphasize, the most vital part of addiction recovery is acceptance. This is the foundation of Alcoholics Anonymous. The “12-Step Program” has assisted numerous individuals who have been afraid to admit that an alcohol misuse problem exists. The first and biggest steps are accepting imperfection and uncovering ways to change for the better. It is not a stagnant program. It encourages a person to grow emotionally. When a person is ready to get sober, Alcoholics Anonymous is an excellent organization that nurtures success.

Resources:

[1]https://alcoholicsanonymous.com/progress-not-perfection-aa/
[2]https://www.barricks.com/AASayings/drpaul.html
[3]https://richarddevinesocialwork.com/2021/04/11/what-i-learnt-attending-alcoholics-anonymous/
[4]https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/general/how-to-practice-self-acceptance/
[5]https://www.fortbehavioral.com/addiction-recovery-blog/defense-mechanisms-and-their-role-in-addiction/

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