The act of reciting the specific words found within the pages of the foundational text of Alcoholics Anonymous constitutes a request for divine assistance in relinquishing self-will and embracing a power greater than oneself. This supplication, explicitly detailed in the Third Step, serves as a formalized method for individuals to consciously surrender their lives and decisions to a higher power’s guidance. An example of its use would be a person verbally expressing these words, ideally with sincerity and a genuine desire for transformation, after grappling with the decision to acknowledge their powerlessness over alcohol.
Its significance lies in facilitating a conscious shift in perspective, moving from self-reliance to reliance on a higher power, which is a core tenet of the program. Historically, this form of seeking divine intervention provided a structured approach for individuals struggling with addiction, offering a pathway toward recovery. The benefits often cited include a reduction in anxiety, increased feelings of hope, and a strengthened commitment to the principles of the recovery program.
