JEWISH AA 12-STEP RECOVERY
(adapted from the original AA 12-Step Recovery Program, with additional research from My Jewish Learning)
Context: I’ve been actively recovering from alcohol since 2020; my stance on recovery is harm reduction (I’m not abstinence-only; I’m a chronic cannabis user). Part of the drive to adapt my own 12-Step came trying to find a recovery space safe enough for me as a Jew. Before March 2020, I had been going to a secular AA spot, but the anti-theist attitude from my peers made it uncomfortable for me to continue attending.
[From my book: "A Prayer For A Non-Religious Autistic" (Mason Jar Press 2022)]
NOTE: Please feel free to share widely; please just credit me!
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Step 1: I recognize that alcohol has negatively affected my livelihood
Step 2: I seek assistance from Hashem, the One with Many Names, to be my partner in recovery
Step 3: I have made the decision to get help
Step 4: I have kept a list of the times I have missed the mark under the influence of alcohol
Step 5: I admit to myself, and to Hashem, that I must make amends with those I have hurt, including myself
Step 6: While I do not wish to forget or eliminate my flaws or shortcomings, I aim to improve my character to help make the world a better place
Step 7: I ask Hashem to help me not over-fixate on my flaws or shortcomings
Step 8: I have made a list of the people I have hurt, and I am willing to make amends
Step 9: Unless the result ends in further harm and/or pikuach nefesh is in play, I make amends as needed
Step 10: As with on Yom Kippur, I continue to keep a periodic list of the times I have missed the mark, and apologize when necessary
Step 11: I pray the Mi Shebeirach with Hashem, the One with Many Names, my partner in recovery, for stability in my mental health and continuing sobriety
Step 12: I am open to the possibility of teaching others in recovery, as long as I do not close myself off from further self-education
FOR MORE:
"Jews and Alcoholics Anonymous" [My Jewish Learning]
12-Step Meetings in Jewish Locations [JCFS Chicago]
Returning Home: Jewish Trauma & Psychedelic Healing [Madison Margolin, Ayin Press]