Episode 17—The 12 Steps and Beyond

Episode 17—The 12 Steps and Beyond

In Episode 17 of From the Shadow to the Light, we explore what it means to live the Twelve Steps—not just as a path to sobriety, but as a spiritual framework for living. Life after rehab brought new challenges and unexpected gifts, as I learned to apply the principles of recovery to every corner of my life. This episode uncovers the ongoing journey of integration, surrender, and transformation.

Show Notes

Episode Title: The 12 Steps and Beyond

Episode Number: 17

Welcome to Episode 17 of From the Shadow to the Light, where we dive into Chapter 17 of my memoir, Struck by Lightning: My Journey from the Shadow to the Light.

In this episode, I share the vulnerable and powerful moments that followed my release from rehab—moments of uncertainty, surrender, and awakening. From finding my AA home group to applying spiritual principles to my business, and from embracing structure to releasing resentment, I discovered that recovery extends far beyond abstinence. It’s a way of living with integrity, service, and deep spiritual connection.

Reflective Questions

Theme 1—Re-Entering Life Post-Rehab

1. How can you bring the lessons and spiritual energy you've gained from your recovery journey into your daily life, even when the world feels overwhelming?
2. Think about a time when you experienced a significant change or transformation. How did you maintain the lessons you learned and the clarity you gained once you returned to your everyday routine?
3. What internal or external challenges do you anticipate—or have faced—when stepping back into life after a major healing moment?

Theme 2—Embracing the Musts of Recovery

1. When did you last feel a deep sense of stillness or presence during a difficult time? What did that moment reveal?
2. What are the “musts” in your life that you've been resisting, and how might embracing them change your path?
3. How do you discern the difference between something you should do and something you must do in your healing journey?

Theme 3—Finding Your Place in AA and Learning to Trust

1. Have you found a community where you feel truly seen and supported? How has this sense of belonging helped you in your recovery?
2. In your own life, where have you found a sense of belonging, a place where you feel understood and accepted just as you are? How has this sense of community impacted your journey of growth or healing?
3. What does trust mean to you now, and how has your understanding of it evolved through community?

Theme 4—Applying the Twelve Steps to Every Aspect of Life

1. How have you applied the principles of the Twelve Steps beyond your sobriety, perhaps in your work, relationships, or personal growth? How has this expanded your sense of purpose?
2. Think about a time when you faced a challenge or setback. How did you use the lessons you learned from that experience to create a positive change in another area of your life?
3. How might you begin to integrate spiritual principles into an area of your life that still feels disconnected or rigid?

Theme 5—The Power of Forgiveness and Letting Go

1. Is there someone you need to forgive, including yourself? What would it mean for you to let go of that resentment and find freedom?
2. Think about a situation or person who has caused you pain. How might practicing forgiveness help you release that burden and move forward with greater peace, even if it feels difficult?
3. What emotions surface when you consider true forgiveness—and how might holding onto those emotions be keeping you stuck?

Conclusion

As we close Episode 17, we're reminded that the journey of recovery, healing, and transformation is not a straight path but a continuous cycle of growth, reflection, and renewal. The Twelve Steps provide a foundation—a way to rebuild our lives from the ground up—but it's what we choose to do beyond those steps that truly defines our journey. It's about taking what we've learned and using it as a guide to navigate every challenge, opportunity, and relationship that life brings.

Today, we explored the power of stepping back into life after rehab, the importance of surrendering to the "musts" of recovery, the value of finding a community where we feel seen and understood, the ability to apply the Twelve Steps to all aspects of life, and the profound impact of forgiveness. These themes remind us that real change isn't just about putting down the drink, the drug, or whatever shadow has held us back; it's about stepping into the light, fully embracing who we are