In the Seventh Step, we take our tradition to a deeper level. What began in the First Step with recognizing our addiction now includes recognizing the imperfections that accompany our addiction.
Step Guide, Step Seven, “Spiritual principles“
The Steps are in order for a reason - each one prepares us for the next. We recognize that our way has not worked when we surrender to the First Step. Some members boil it down to a simple admission: I need something different. This admission opens the door for us to recognize our need to reset in Step Two and make a decision in Step Three.
With each of these first three Steps, we surrender a little more. In return, we gain hope and enjoy glimpses of freedom.
Tradition takes on new meaning when we reach the Sixth and Seventh Steps. Sure, we hated some of our imperfections, but others were still useful. We were rather weak in one or two that we thought defined us. Even other flaws kept us safe - we may even attribute our survival out there to some of them. To become absolutely ready to let go of the entire catalog, we ask ourselves, “Do they still serve us in our new way of life? What would life be like without them?” The answer is always "a little more free".
In humility, we surrender our imperfections to a Higher Power and ask that they be removed. More than one proponent has pointed out that "the Seventh Step doesn't keep saying 'and we lived happily without them', does it?". Instead, this Seventh Step tradition guides us down a path and requires us to do more work. Many of us find that we are more receptive to suggestions from our supporters, trusted friends, and our own insights. When we begin to feel ourselves reaching a fault-based reaction, we make an effort to choose a principled reaction instead. We surrender, again and again, deepening our commitment to living by spiritual principles and inviting them to confront our worst impulses.
Whenever one of my flaws looks attractive, that's when I can practice surrender. The gifts of tradition are available to me every day.
