Step 12

Step 12 takes the addict from a receiving mentality to a giving mentality. It is a world of giving, which the addict hopes to be a part of. This is true whether one is speaking about giving in marriage, giving in child raising, and even giving to strangers. The addict knows that upon reaching Step 12 it is an opportunity to turn into the ultimate giver and enlighten others to a true and deep spiritual experience. This especially applies to other addicts who have the need the most.

By turning into a spiritual giver the addict moves towards a complete inner rectification. It is this act of giving, which completes the addict’s return to his or her true inner self.

“Life will take on new meaning. To watch people recover, to see them help others, to watch loneliness vanish, to see a fellowship grow up about you, to have a host of friends – this is an experience you must not miss. We know you will not want to miss it. Frequent contact with newcomers and with each other is the bright spot of our lives,” reads the A.A. Big Book.