Father Bill W.

In modern society many men – and not a few women – are seriously and dangerously out of touch with their emotions. Opportunities abound to isolate and to self-medicate.  When an addict or an alcoholic begins recovery many of us find ourselves emotionally vulnerable and immature. This series focuses on some reasons for this and offers methods and exercises for connecting with and caring for our emotional selves. 

Father Bill interviews therapist Laura Jones Swann, author of Men and Emotions: It’s a Thing. Laura has worked extensively in the recovery field  teaching at several Texas universities. She’ll serve as the guide to a topic that’s relevant to men and women alike. 

In this second episode Laura takes a deep dive into the emotional life of men: the unique challenges men face, the emotional inner- landscape of our lives, and Nine Principles for Connecting to and Caring for the Emotional Self. 

 Show Notes:

Men and Emotions: It’s a Thing by Laura Swann, MEd. LCDC 

Daniel Goldman: Emotional Intelligence

Emotions and Feelings Chart:

Practices-FeelingsSensations.pdf

You can contact Laura [email protected] 

In modern society many men – and not a few women – are seriously and dangerously out of touch with their emotions. Opportunities abound to isolate and to self-medicate. When an addict or an alcoholic begins recovery  many of us find ourselves emotionally vulnerable and emotionally immature. This series focuses on some reasons this comes about and offers methods and exercises for connecting with and caring for our emotional selves.

Father Bill interviews therapist Laura Jones Swann, author of Men and Emotions: It’s a Thing. Laura has worked extensively in the recovery field for many years teaching at several Texas universities. She’ll serve as the guide to a topic that’s relevant to men and women alike. In the first episode Laura introduces herself, talks about her own recovery, shares how she became interested in deeper emotional work, and suggests how her book can be of help to readers wanting to grow in emotional maturity. Hope you'll come along! 

Show Notes:

Men and Emotions: It’s a Thing by Laura Jones Swann, MEd. LCDC

You can contact Laura at [email protected]

Fr. Bill interviews Jungian analyst and author of The War of the Gods in Addiction David Schoen. The conversation centers on the underlying, and often overlooked, psychic elements uniquely present in addiction and the 12-Step pathway that seems specifically designed to overcome them.

Show Notes:

The War of the Gods in Addiction

Copy of the Letters Between Wilson and Jung

A book I’ve often returned to over and over is Thomas R. Kelly’s  A Testament of Devotion. Kelly was a Quaker and a mystic. His book centers on what the Big Book calls “the Great Reality within.” Since it’s a Greater Reality we can never fully understand it – but we can certainly experience it – and mystics like Kelly come as close as humans can come to describing what such an experience - and still more – what a such relationship is like. In this final episode Fr. Bill goes further into Kelly’s chapter: The Simplification of Life. Kelly’s advice to a group of Quakers has a great deal to offer a group of drunks and addicts in following Dr. Bob’s advice to KEEP IT SIMPLE!

Show Notes:

A Testament of Devotion by Thomas R. Kelly

A book I’ve often returned to over and over is Thomas R. Kelly’s  A Testament of Devotion. Kelly was a Quaker and a mystic. His book centers on what the Big Book calls “the Great Reality within.” Since it’s a Greater Reality we can never fully understand it – but we can certainly experience it – and mystics like Kelly come as close as humans can come to describing what such an experience - and still more – what a such relationship is like. In this episode Fr. Bill goes further into Kelly’s chapter: The Eternal Now and Social Concern. Kelly balances a person’s work in the world with an experience of God in the Now. The two flow out of one another just as carrying the message flows naturally from an experience of God.  

Show Notes:       A Testament of Devotion by Thomas R. Kelly

A book I’ve often returned to over and over is Thomas R. Kelly’s  A Testament of Devotion. Kelly was a Quaker and a mystic. His book centers on what the Big Book calls “the Great Reality within.” Since it’s a Greater Reality we can never fully understand it – but we can certainly experience it – and mystics like Kelly come as close as humans can come to describing what such an experience - and still more – what a such relationship is like. In this episode Fr. Bill goes further into Kelly’s chapter: The Blessed Community. He describes what it means to be in genuine union with fellow spiritual travelers verses being just another cog in a spiritual wheel going nowhere.

Show Notes:

A Testament of Devotion by Thomas R. Kelly

A book I’ve often returned to over and over is Thomas R. Kelly’s  A Testament of Devotion. Kelly was a Quaker and a mystic. His book centers on what the Big Book calls “the Great Reality within.” Since it’s a Greater Reality we can never fully understand it – but we can certainly experience it – and mystics like Kelly come as close as humans can come to describing what such an experience - and still more – what a such relationship is like. In this episode Fr. Bill goes further into Kelly’s chapter: Holy Obedience sharing what it’s like to be there and four steps for getting there.

Show Notes:

A Testament of Devotion by Thomas R. Kelly

A book I’ve often returned to over and over is Thomas R. Kelly’s  A Testament of Devotion. Kelly was a Quaker and a mystic. His book centers on what the Big Book calls “the Great Reality within.” Since it’s a Greater Reality we can never understand it – but we can experience it – and mystics like Kelly come as close as humans can come to describing what such an experience - and still more – what such a relationship is like. In this episode, Fr. Bill focuses on Kelly’s second chapter: Holy Obedience. It’s OK to listen even if you’re not wholly there!

Show Notes:

A Testament ofDevotion by Thomas R. Kelly

Poem: The Hound of Heaven by Francis Thompson http://www.houndofheaven.com/poem

Wiki page on the life of Francis Thompson (a recovered opium addict)

A book I’ve often returned to in my morning Quiet Times is Thomas R. Kelly’s  A Testament of Devotion. Kelly was a Quaker and a mystic. His book centers on what the Big Book calls “the Great Reality within.” Since it’s a Greater Reality we can never understand it – but we can experience it – and mystics like Kelly come as close as humans can come to describing what such an experience - and still more – what such a relationship is like. In this episode Fr. Bill focuses on Kelly’s first chapter: The Inner Light. It’s a Light sure to illuminate the path of any spiritual seeker.

A Testament of Devotion by Thomas R. Kelly

Passage from The Light Within by Thomas R. Kelly:

… Deep within us all there is an amazing inner sanctuary of the soul, a holy place, a Divine Center, a speaking Voice, to which we may continuously return. Eternity is at our hearts, pressing upon our time-torn lives, warming us with intimations of an astounding destiny, calling us home unto Itself. Yielding to these persuasions, gladly committing ourselves in body and soul, utterly and completely, to the Light Within, is the beginning of true life. It is a dynamic center, a creative Life that presses to birth within us.

It is a Light Within which illumines the face of God and casts new shadows and new glories upon the face of men. It is a seed stirring to life if we do not choke it. It is the Shekinah of the soul, the Presence in the midst. Here is the Slumbering Christ, stirring to be awakened, to become the soul we clothe in earthly form and action. And He is within us all.

Many early AAs were prolific readers. Dr. Bob left a library overflowing with spiritual literature and for Oxford Group members spiritual reading formed an important part of their daily morning quiet times. When I’m asked, “What books do you recommend?” to read before doing Two Way Prayer, I’m hesitant to answer as we’re each very different. But, for me, there's one book I’ve returned to several times and it never fails to speak to the deepest longings of my soul. The Big Book says the Great Reality is within. Thomas R. Kelly’s book A Testament of Devotion sheds a Light that helps illuminate that inward journey. Come along for the ride!

A Testament of Devotion by Thomas R. Kelly

In this Golden Oldie, Father Bill interviews Professor William Miller, author of Quantum Change: When Epiphanies and Sudden Insights Transform Ordinary Lives. Listen as the professor reflects on his in-depth study of psychic change. It’s a lively discussion of spirituality and science. Quantum Change: When Epiphanies and Sudden Insights Transform Ordinary Lives by William Miller

https://williamrmiller.net/quantum-change/

Description: Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob and the AA Pioneers found sobriety primarily by working the principles and practices of the Oxford Group and adapting them to meet the needs of alcoholics. This series traces that early history. It draws from the 1980 AA publication Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers. 

Fr. Bill’s guest is recovery archivist Matt D. from the 12-Step Fellowship All Addicts Anonymous. In this final episode they focus on Dr. Bob’s legacy to AA.

Show Notes: 

Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers

All Addicts Anonymous: https://alladdictsanonymous.org/ 

Return from Tomorrow by George Ritchie

Denial of Death by Ernest Becker

Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob and the AA Pioneers became sober primarily by working the principles and practices of the Oxford Group and adapting them to meet the needs of alcoholics. This series traces that early history. It draws from the 1980 AA publication Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers. Fr. Bill’s guest is recovery archivist Matt D. from the 12-Step Fellowship All Addicts Anonymous. In this sixth episode they explore Chapters 15 through 18 as AA meetings evolve in Akron and Cleveland where Dr. Bob’s influence is remembered.

Show Notes:

Dr. Bob and The Good Old Timers

All Addicts Anonymous: https://alladdictsanonymous.org/ 1939 Cleveland Plain Dealer AA Articles 1939 Rev. Dilworth Lupton’s Sermon     Article on Matthew Talbot      Saint Francis by Nikos Kazantzakis

Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob and the AA pioneers gained their sobriety primarily by working the principles found in the Oxford Group and adapting them to the special needs of alcoholics. This series traces that early history. It draws from the 1980 AA publication Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers. Fr. Bill’s guest is recovery archivist Matt D. from the 12-Step Fellowship All Addicts Anonymous. In this fifth episode they explore Chapters 12,13, and 14 as the alcoholics in the Midwest strike out on their own.

Show Notes: 

Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers

All Addicts Anonymous: https://alladdictsanonymous.org/

Your Faith Magazine: 1939 article by Dr. Bob (courtesy Silkworth.net) https://silkworth.net/alcoholics-anonymous/i-saw-religion-remake-a-drunkard/#google_vignette

 AA Saturday Evening Post: article on AA, 1941 https://www.saturdayeveningpost.com/2015/12/aa/

Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob and the AA pioneers gained their sobriety primarily by working the principles found in the Oxford Group and adapting them to the special needs of alcoholics. This series traces that early history. It draws from the 1980 AA publication Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers. Fr. Bill’s guest is recovery archivist Matt D. from the 12-Step Fellowship All Addicts Anonymous. In this fourth episode they explore Chapters 9,10 and11 as the original program starts to take shape.

Show Notes: Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers

All Addicts Anonymous

Dr. Bob’s Last Talk

Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob and the AA pioneers gained their sobriety primarily by working the principles found in the Oxford Group and adapting them to the special needs of alcoholics. This series traces that early history. It draws from the 1980 AA publication Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers. Fr. Bill’s guest is recovery archivist Matt D. from the 12-Step Fellowship All Addicts Anonymous. In this third episode they explore Chapters 7 and 8 as the co-founders go to work on AA number Three and chart their course of recovery.

Show Notes: 

Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers

All Addicts Anonymous

Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob and the AA pioneers gained their sobriety by working the principles found in the Oxford Group and adapting them to the special needs of alcoholics. This series traces this early history. It draws from the 1980 AA publication Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers. Fr. Bill’s guest is recovery archivist Matt D. from the 12-Step Fellowship All Addicts Anonymous. In this episode they explore the two year period when Bob was faithfully attending Oxford Group meetings but unable to stay sober. Then Bill arrived providentially and a spark was lit that ignited the program of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Show Notes:

Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers

All Addicts Anonymis

A recovery program for alcoholics existed before the Big Book was written, and before the 12 Steps ever came to be. Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob and the original members of AA gained their sobriety by working the principles and practices found in the Oxford Group and adapting them to the special needs of alcoholics. This series traces some of this early history. It draws from the 1980 AA publication Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers. Fr. Bill’s guest is recovery archivist Matt D. from the 12-Step Fellowship All Addicts Anonymous. In this first episode Matt shares some of his own story, explores what the original Akron program was like, how it differed from modern-day AA, and why that original program attracted him. Fr. Bill and Matt then go on to explore highlights from Dr. Bob’s early life and recovery.

Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers

All Addicts Anonymous: https://alladdictsanonymous.org/

Two Way Prayer is only a part of a longer morning Quiet Time. In this final episode of a two-part series Fr. Bill explores a pamphlet by Howard J. Rose that’s titled: The Quite Time. The short pamphlet was popular among members of the Oxford Group and early AA. It gives an overview of the Morning Quiet Time practice covering five areas: 

1.) The Facts of God’s Guidance. 

2.) The Conditions of God’s Guidance

3.) The Tests of God’s Guidance

4.) One Method of receiving God’s Guidance

5.) The Results of God’s Guidance

The pamphlet is available to download in the show notes

Show Notes:

• ⁠The Quiet Time⁠ by Howard J. Rose

• ⁠The World’s Religions⁠ by Houston Smith: (Many used copies are available online so don’t spend too much)

Two Way Prayer is only a part of a longer morning Quiet Time. In the following two episodes Fr. Bill explores a pamphlet by Howard J. Rose that’s titled simply: The Quite Time. The short pamphlet was popular among members of the Oxford Group and early AA.  It gives an overview of the Morning Quiet Time practice covering five areas: 

1.) The Facts of God’s Guidance. 

2.) The Conditions of God’s Guidance

3.) The Tests of God’s Guidance

4.) One Method of receiving God’s Guidance

5.) The Results of God’s Guidance

The pamphlet is available to download in the show notes

Show Notes:

• The Quiet Time by Howard J. Rose

• The World’s Religions by Houston Smith: (Many used copies are available online so don’t spend too much)

Many in recovery find Buddhist philosophy and meditation a tremendous aid to their spiritual journey. Fr. Bill’s guest is Kevin G. a gifted Buddhist author and teacher in long term recovery from addiction. Kevin is the author One Breath at a Time: Buddhism and the Twelve Steps. The Buddha’s enlightenment and Kevin’s simple teaching style have much to offer addicts in the ongoing search to overcome our suffering. See the links below to contact Kevin directly. Show Notes: Kevin’s website: www.kevingriffin.net / The Buddhist Recovery Network: www.buddhistrecovery.org / Houston Smith’ World Religions: (pdf.) https://www.pdfdrive.com/the-worlds-r... / Article on Jesuit Brother Bob Maat: https://contemplativealliance.org/201...

We live in an age when the meaning and purpose of life are often less clear than ever before. An age when we’re asking questions of doctors we should be asking priests - but few priests seem able to provide meaningful answers to today’s spiritual seekers. Enter Viktor Frankl.

Frankl was a Jewish psychiatrist whose pioneering work known as Logotherapy has helped millions of suffering men and women begin asking the right questions of life and finding answers that satisfy their souls.

In this series, we’ve explored Frankl’s book The Doctor and the Soul. Fr. Bill’s guest and tour guide has been Tom Lavin, a therapist, teacher, and friend who has studied Frankl’s work for years and helped many addicts and alcoholics find new or renewed meaning and purpose in their recovery.

This episode concludes the series. It briefly reviews some of the topics we’ve covered, ties them into the 12-Step journey and contains some suggestions from Tom on what to look for when choosing a therapist.

Show Notes:

Tom Lavin is a Psychotherapist, Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor.

He’s served for many years as Adjunct Faculty, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.

Links to Tom’s website and his LIVE BETTER television series

Video of Viktor Frankl

The Doctor and the Soul via Amazon

We live in an age when the meaning and purpose of life are often less clear than ever before. An age when we’re asking questions of doctors we should be asking priests - but few priests seem able to provide meaningful answers to today’s spiritual seekers. Enter Viktor Frankl.

Frankl was a Jewish psychiatrist whose pioneering work known as Logotherapy has helped millions of suffering men and women begin asking the right questions of life and finding answers that satisfy their souls. 

In this series, we explore Frankl’s book The Doctor and the Soul. Fr. Bill’s guest and tour guide is Tom Lavin, a therapist, teacher, and friend who has studied Frankl’s work for years and helped many addicts and alcoholics find new or renewed meaning and purpose in their recovery. This episode explores the existential meaning of love. What it is … What is it not … And how to find it in recovery.

Show Notes:

Links to Tom’s website and his LIVE BETTER television series can be Accessed here.  

https://contextualscience.org/tom_lavin_mft_lcadc_acata_live_better_psychoeducat

• Video of Viktor Frankl

• The Doctor and the Soul via Amazon: (Many used copies should be available)

•  Link to First Corinthians XIII

•  M. Scott Peck on Love

https://apathlesstravelled.com/love-what-it-is-what-it-is-not-and-what-its-role-is-part-2/

•  Bill Wilson’s article on Emotional Sobriety

•  The Sexual Crucible by David Schnarch (used copies) 

We live in an age when the meaning and purpose of life are often less clear than ever before. An age when we’re asking questions of doctors we should be asking priests - but few priests seem able to provide meaningful answers to today’s spiritual seekers. Enter Viktor Frankl.

Frankl was a Jewish psychiatrist whose pioneering work known as Logotherapy has helped millions of suffering men and women begin asking the right questions of life and finding answers that satisfy their souls. 

In this series, we explore Frankl’s book The Doctor and the Soul. Fr. Bill’s guest and tour guide is Tom Lavin, a therapist, teacher, and friend who has studied Frankl’s work for years and helped many addicts and alcoholics find new or renewed meaning and purpose in their recovery. This episode explores the existential meaning of work.

Show Notes:

Tom Lavin is a Psychotherapist, Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. 

 He’s served for many years as Adjunct Faculty, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. 

Links to Tom’s website and his LIVE BETTER television series can be Accessed here: https://contextualscience.org/tom_lavin_mft_lcadc_acata_live_better_psychoeducat

Video of Viktor Frankl

Article on Professor Howard Gardner’s Good Work

The Doctor and the Soul via Amazon

We live in an age when the meaning and purpose of life are often less clear than ever before. An age when we’re asking questions of doctors we should be asking priests - but few priests seem able to provide meaningful answers to today’s spiritual seekers. Enter Viktor Frankl.

Frankl was a Jewish psychiatrist whose pioneering work known as Logotherapy has helped millions of suffering men and women begin asking the right questions of life and finding answers that satisfy their souls. 

In this series, we explore Frankl’s book The Doctor and the Soul. Fr. Bill’s guest and tour guide is Tom Lavin, a therapist, teacher, and friend who has studied Frankl’s work for years and helped many addicts and alcoholics find new or renewed meaning and purpose in their recovery. This episode explores the existential issues surrounding Life and Death. 

Show Notes:

Tom Lavin is a Psychotherapist, Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He’s served for many years as Adjunct Faculty, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. Tom’s website and newsletter can be accessed at: www.easeap.com/ 

Tom’s LIVE BETTER television series provides tools to help people face and overcome their anxiety and other mental health and addiction issues. Be sure to download the worksheets that go along with the helpful videos. Access here.  

https://contextualscience.org/tom_lavin_mft_lcadc_acata_live_better_psychoeducat

Video of Viktor Frankl: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlC2OdnhIiQ

Bill Wilson article on Emotional Sobriety:   

60 Values to Live by – Choose 3 and get going.

1.  Acceptance: to be open to and accepting of myself, others, life etc 

2.  Adventure: to be adventurous; to actively seek, create, or explore novel or stimulating experiences 

3.  Assertiveness: to respectfully stand up for my rights and request what I want

4.  Authenticity: to be authentic, genuine, real; to be true to myself 

5. Beauty: to appreciate, create, nurture or cultivate beauty in myself, others, the environment etc 

6. Caring: to be caring towards myself, others, the environment etc 

7. Challenge: to keep challenging myself to grow, learn, improve 

8. Compassion: to act with kindness towards those who are suffering 

9.  Connection: to engage fully in whatever I am doing, and be fully present with others 

10.  Contribution: to contribute, help, assist, or make a positive difference to myself or others 

11.  Conformity: to be respectful and obedient of rules and obligations 

12.  Cooperation: to be cooperative and collaborative with others 

13.  Courage: to be courageous or brave; to persist in the face of fear, threat, or difficulty 

14.  Creativity: to be creative or innovative 

15.  Curiosity: to be curious, open-minded and interested; to explore and discover

16.  Encouragement: to encourage and reward behaviour that I value in myself or others 

Equality: to treat others as equal to myself, and vice-versa 

17.  Excitement: to seek, create and engage in activities that are exciting, stimulating or thrilling 

18.  Fairness: to be fair to myself or others 

19.  Fitness: to maintain or improve my fitness; to look after my physical and mental health and wellbeing 

20.  Flexibility: to adjust and adapt readily to changing circumstances 

21.  Freedom: to live freely; to choose how I live and behave, or help others do likewise 

22.  Friendliness: to be friendly, companionable, or agreeable towards others 

23.  Forgiveness: to be forgiving towards myself or others 

24.  Fun: to be fun-loving; to seek, create, and engage in fun-filled activities 

25.  Generosity: to be generous, sharing and giving, to myself or others 

26.  Gratitude: to be grateful for and appreciative of the positive aspects of myself, others and life 

27.  Honesty: to be honest, truthful, and sincere with myself and others 

28.  Humour: to see and appreciate the humorous side of life 

29.  Humility: to be humble or modest; to let my achievements speak for themselves 

30.  Industry: to be industrious, hard-working, dedicated 

31.  Independence: to be self-supportive, and choose my own way of doing things

32.  Intimacy: to open up, reveal, and share myself -- emotionally or physically – in my close personal relationships 

33.  Justice: to uphold justice and fairness 

34.  Kindness: to be kind, compassionate, considerate, nurturing or caring towards myself or others 

35.  Love: to act lovingly or affectionately towards myself or others 

36.  Mindfulness: to be conscious of, open to, and curious about my here-and-now experience 

37.  Order: to be orderly and organized 

38.  Open-mindedness: to think things through, see things from other’s points of view, and weigh evidence fairly. 

39.  Patience: to wait calmly for what I want 

40.  Persistence: to continue resolutely, despite problems or difficulties. 

41.  Pleasure: to create and give pleasure to myself or others 

42.  Power: to strongly influence or wield authority over others, e.g. taking charge, leading, organizing 

43.  Reciprocity: to build relationships in which there is a fair balance of giving and taking 

44.  45. Respect: to be respectful towards myself or others; to be polite, considerate and show positive regard 

45.  Responsibility: to be responsible and accountable for my actions 

46.  Romance: to be romantic; to display and express love or strong affection 

47.  Safety: to secure, protect, or ensure safety of myself or others 

48.  Self-awareness: to be aware of my own thoughts, feelings and actions 

49.  Self-care: to look after my health and wellbeing, and get my needs met 

51. Self-development: to keep growing, advancing or improving in knowledge, skills, character, or life experience. 

52. Self-control: to act in accordance with my own ideals 

53. Sensuality: to create, explore and enjoy experiences that stimulate the five senses 

54. Sexuality: to explore or express my sexuality 

55. Spirituality: to connect with things bigger than myself 

56. Skilfulness: to continually practice and improve my skills, and apply myself fully when using them 

57. Supportiveness: to be supportive, helpful, encouraging, and available to myself or others 

58. Trust: to be trustworthy; to be loyal, faithful, sincere, and reliable 

59. Insert your own unlisted value here: 

60. Insert your own unlisted value here: *** Once you’ve marked each value as V, Q, N (Very, Quite, or Not so important), go through all the Vs, and select out the top three that are most important to you in this domain of life, at this point in time. The next step is to start looking at ways to live these values, in this area of life; things you can say and do, guided by these values.

The Doctor and the Soul via Amazon

We live in an age when the meaning and purpose of life are often less clear than ever before. An age when we’re asking questions of doctors we should be asking priests - but few priests seem able to provide meaningful answers to today’s spiritual seekers. Enter Viktor Frankl.

Frankl was a Jewish psychiatrist whose pioneering work known as Logotherapy has helped millions of suffering men and women begin asking the right questions of life and finding answers that satisfy their souls. 

In this series, we explore Frankl’s book The Doctor and the Soul. Fr. Bill’s guest and tour guide is Tom Lavin, a therapist, teacher, and friend who has studied Frankl’s work for years and helped many addicts and alcoholics find new or renewed meaning and purpose in their recovery. This episode explores anxiety, a disease Frankl called “the disease of our time.” Tom explores the subject and suggests how Logotherapy can be of help.

Show Notes:

Tom Lavin is a Psychotherapist, Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He’s served for many years as Adjunct Faculty, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. Tom’s website and newsletter can be accessed at: www.easeap.com/ 

Tom’s LIVE BETTER television series provides tools to help people face and overcome their anxiety and other mental health and addiction issues. Be sure to download the worksheets that go along with the helpful videos.

https://contextualscience.org/tom_lavin_mft_lcadc_acata_live_better_psychoeducat

Ego and Archetype by Edward Edinger via Amazon (free pdf copies are available online)

The Doctor and the Soul by Viktor Frankl

Frankl Quote:

“ … psychotherapy has given too little attention to the spiritual reality of man.

“For the aim of the psychotherapist should be to bring out the ultimate possibilities of the patient, to realize his latent values, remembering the aphorism of Goethe,

‘… if we take people as they are, we make them worse. If we treat them as if they were what they ought to be, we help them to become what they are capable of becoming.

We live in an age when the meaning and purpose of life are often less clear than ever before. An age when we’re asking questions of doctors we should be asking priests - but few priests seem able to provide meaningful answers to today’s spiritual seekers. Enter Viktor Frankl.

Frankl was a Jewish psychiatrist whose pioneering work known as Logotherapy has helped millions of suffering men and women begin asking the right questions of life and finding answers that satisfy their souls. 

In this series, we explore Frankl’s book The Doctor and the Soul. Father Bill’s guest and tour guide is Tom Lavin, a therapist, teacher, and friend who has studied Frankl’s work for years and helped many addicts and alcoholics find new or renewed meaning and purpose in recovery. This episode continues to explore how Logotherapy can shed new light on the path to overcome addiction.

Show Notes:

Tom Lavin is a Psychotherapist, Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He’s served for many years as Adjunct Faculty, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. Tom’s website and newsletter can be accessed at: www.easeap.com/ 

The Doctor and the Soul

We live in an age when the meaning and purpose of life are often less clear than ever before. An age when we’re asking questions of doctors we should be asking priests - but fewer priests seem able to provide meaningful answers to today’s spiritual seekers. Enter Viktor Frankl.

Frankl was a Jewish psychiatrist whose pioneering work known as Logotherapy has helped millions of suffering men and women begin asking the right questions of life and finding answers that satisfy their souls.

In this series, we’ll explore Frankl’s book The Doctor and the Soul. Father Bill’s guest and tour guide is Tom Lavin, a therapist, teacher, and friend who has studied Frankl’s work for many years and helped many addicts and alcoholics find new or renewed meaning and purpose in their recovery. This episode introduces Viktor Frankl and his work. It explores how Logotherapy can shed new light on the path to overcome addiction.

Show Notes:

Tom Lavin is a Psychotherapist, Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He’s served for many years as Adjunct Faculty, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. Tom’s website and newsletter: www.easeap.com/

The Doctor and the Soul

  ⁠https://www.abebooks.com/9780385500364/When-Life-Calls-Out-Love-038550036X/plp⁠

Tom recommended this as a good biography of Frankl’s life: When Life Calls Out to Us: The Love and Lifework of Viktor and Elly Frankl – by Haddon Klinberg, Jr.

Tom will be my guest for an upcoming series focused on the work of psychiatrist Viktor Frankl. Serving both as a therapist and university instructor practicing in Reno, Nevada, Tom’s interest in Frankl’s Logotherapy extends back many years and he has a special gift for making Frankl’s work accessible to people in recovery.  This recording was an interview we did several years ago when I appeared on Tom’s long-running TV series. 

In the upcoming series we’ll be exploring Frankl’s book: The Doctor and the Soul. Enjoy this and be sure to come back for more!

The series explores the book SPIRITUAL EVOLUTION by Dr. George E. Vaillant. The author was a psychiatrist at Harvard and served as a non-alcoholic Trustee for Alcoholics Anonymous. Spirituality can be a hard concept to grasp, and his book helps make it understandable. He defines spirituality as the realization of positive emotions such as love, hope, faith, joy, forgiveness, and compassion – along with awe and mystical illumination. The author argues our brains are hard wired for these and through the 12 Step journey, we’re evolving – “sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly” towards realizing them in our lives This episode concludes the series focusing on how AA brings about spiritual transformation. It concentrates on the difference between religion and spirituality and how AA tries to protect itself from becoming a cult.

Show Notes:

⁠Spiritual Evolution: A Scientific Defense of Faith by George Vaillant⁠

 ⁠HARVARD STUDY HIGHLIGHTS⁠: ⁠https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grant_Study

The series explores the book SPIRITUAL EVOLUTION by Dr. George E. Vaillant. The author was a psychiatrist at Harvard and served as a non-alcoholic Trustee for Alcoholics Anonymous. Spirituality can be a hard concept to grasp, and his book helps make it understandable. He defines spirituality as the realization of positive emotions such as love, hope, faith, joy, forgiveness, and compassion – along with awe and mystical illumination. The author argues our brains are hard wired for these and through the 12 Step journey, we’re evolving – “sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly” towards realizing them in our lives This episode focuses on Awe and Mystical Illumination –the goal of the 12-Step Journey.

Show Notes:

Spiritual Evolution: A Scientific Defense of Faith by George Vaillant

We Agnostics: How William James, Father of American Psychology, Advanced A Spiritual Solution to Addiction: How a Venerated Harvard Doctor Inspired the 12 Step Movement Paperback – Mr Paul L Schulte

Father Bill W. podcast w guest Paul Schulte AA & William James

Quantum Change: When Epiphanies and Sudden Insights Transform Ordinary Lives 1st Editionby William R. Miller Father Bill W. podcast w guest William Miller

The series explores the book SPIRITUAL EVOLUTION by Dr. George E. Vaillant. The author was a psychiatrist at Harvard and served as a non-alcoholic Trustee for Alcoholics Anonymous. Spirituality can be a hard concept to grasp, and his book helps make it understandable. He defines spirituality as the realization of positive emotions such as love, hope, faith, joy, forgiveness, and compassion – along with awe and mystical illumination. The author argues our brains are hard wired for these and through the 12 Step journey, we’re evolving – “sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly” towards realizing them in our lives This episode focuses on COMPASSION and the role it plays in the spiritual life of a recovering addict.

Show Notes:

Spiritual Evolution: A Scientific Defense of Faith by George Vaillant

The series explores the book SPIRITUAL EVOLUTION by Dr. George E. Vaillant. The author was a psychiatrist at Harvard and served as a non-alcoholic Trustee for Alcoholics Anonymous. Spirituality can be a hard concept to grasp, and his book helps make it understandable. He defines spirituality as the realization of positive emotions such as love, hope, faith, joy, forgiveness, and compassion – along with awe and mystical illumination. The author argues our brains are hard wired for these and through the 12 Step journey, we’re evolving – “sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly” towards realizing them in our lives This episode focuses on FORGIVENESS and the role it plays in the spiritual life of a recovering addict.

Show Notes:

Spiritual Evolution: A Scientific Defense of Faith by George Vaillant

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The series explores the book SPIRITUAL EVOLUTION by Dr. George E. Vaillant. The author was a psychiatrist at Harvard and served as a non-alcoholic Trustee for Alcoholics Anonymous. Spirituality can be a hard concept to grasp, and his book helps make it understandable. He defines spirituality as the realization of positive emotions such as love, hope, faith, joy, forgiveness, and compassion – along with awe and mystical illumination. The author argues our brains are hard wired for these and through the 12 Step journey, we’re evolving – “sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly” towards realizing them in our lives This episode focuses on the quality of JOY in the spiritual life of a recovering addict.

If you want to locate and feel JOY in your soul, be sure to watch and listen to the 5-minute YouTube video “Ode to Joy” linked below. “If you can spot it, you got it!”

Show Notes:

Spiritual Evolution: A Scientific Defense of Faith by George Vaillant

Video: Ode to Joy on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbJcQYVtZMo

The series explores the book SPIRITUAL EVOLUTION by Dr. George E. Vaillant. The author was a psychiatrist at Harvard and served as a non-alcoholic Trustee for Alcoholics Anonymous. Spirituality can be a hard concept to grasp, and his book helps make it understandable. He defines spirituality as the realization of positive emotions such as love, hope, faith, joy, forgiveness, and compassion – along with awe and mystical illumination.

The author argues our brains are hard wired for these and through the 12 Step journey, we’re evolving – “sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly” towards realizing them in our lives This episode focuses on the importance of HOPE in the spiritual life of a recovering addict.

Show Notes:

SpiritualEvolution: A Scientific Defense of Faith by George Vaillant

Harvard Study Hightlights: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grant_Study

Anthem by Leonard Cohen: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=anthem+leonard+cohen

The series explores the book SPIRITUAL EVOLUTION by Dr. George E. Vaillant. The author was a psychiatrist at Harvard and served as a non-alcoholic Trustee for Alcoholics Anonymous. Spirituality can be a hard concept to grasp, and his book helps make it understandable. He defines spirituality as the realization of positive emotions such as love, hope, faith, joy, forgiveness, and compassion – along with awe and mystical illumination. The author argues our brains are hard wired for these and through the 12 Step journey, we’re evolving – “sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly” towards realizing them in our lives This episode focuses on the meaning and transforming power of LOVE.

Show Notes:

Spiritual Evolution: A Scientific Defense of Faith by George Vaillant Used Copy Available

HARVARD STUDY HIGHLIGHTS: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grant_Study

References to LOVE in Key AA Literature (Courtesy 164andMore.com):https://www.164andmore.com/words/love.htm

Paul’s Letter to the Corinthians

For more on this topic, check out the Father Bill W. podcast series Inner Gold https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fatherbillw/episodes/Inner-Gold-God-Is-Out-of-the-Box-e1h26f3

The series explores the book SPIRITUAL EVOLUTION written by Dr. George E. Vaillant. The author was a research psychiatrist at Harvard and served as a non-alcoholic Trustee for Alcoholics Anonymous. Spirituality is often a hard concept to grasp and his book helps make it understandable. He defines spirituality as the realization of positive emotions such as love, hope, faith, joy, forgiveness, and compassion – along with awe and mystical illumination. The author argues our brains are hard wired for these and through the 12 Step journey. We’re evolving – “sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly” towards realizing them in ourselves. This episode focuses on the important difference between faith and belief. 

Show Notes:

Spiritual Evolution: A Scientific Defense of Faith by George Vaillant

HARVARD STUDY HIGHLIGHTS: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grant_Study

 References to “Faith” in Key AA Literature: https://www.164andmore.com/words/faith.htm

 Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=%27man%27s+search+for+meaning%27&i=stripbooks&hvadid=580696318078&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9028223&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=1501299473015564863

The series explores the book SPIRITUAL EVOLUTION written by Dr. George E. Vaillant. The author was a research psychiatrist at Harvard and served as a non-alcoholic Trustee for Alcoholics Anonymous. Spirituality is a hard concept to grasp, and his book helps make it more understandable. He defines spirituality as the realization of positive emotions such as love, hope, faith, joy, forgiveness, and compassion – along with awe and mystical illumination. The author argues we are evolving physically, culturally, and individually. This episode is focused on the geography of the brain and how it sets the stage for the spiritual journey.

Show Notes:

Spiritual Evolution: A Scientific Defense of Faith by George E, Valliant

Harvard Study Highlights https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grant_Study

Bill Wilson article Emotion Sobriety

“The Next Frontier: Emotional Sobriety” by Bill Wilson (aainthedesert.org)

This series explores the book SPIRITUAL EVOLUTION written by Dr. George E. Vaillant. The author was a research psychiatrist at Harvard and served as a non-alcoholic Trustee for Alcoholics Anonymous. Spirituality is a hard concept to grasp and his book helps make it more understandable. He defines spirituality as the realization of positive emotions such as love, hope, faith, joy, forgiveness, and compassion – along with awe and mystical illumination. The author argues our brains are hard wired for these and through the 12 Step journey, we’re evolving – “sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly” to realizing them in ourselves. This should be a powerful series you won’t want to miss.

Show Notes:

Spiritual Evolution: A Scientific Defense of Faith by George Vaillant

HARVARD STUDY HIGHLIGHTS: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grant_Study

Fr. Bill’s guest is Andy C., a Canadian attorney in recovery since 1977. Andy is the author of “Gems,” a collection of reflections and meditations on insights and practices that can lead to a more meaningful, satisfying, and purposeful recovery. In this final episode, Fr. Bill and Andy explore the practice and benefits of frequent and meaningful inventories using Steps 4 and 10. Show Notes:

Gems: Meditations on Alcoholism and Recovery by Andy C.

Visit Andy at his website: the Fourth Dimension https://the4thdimension.ca/

Fr. Bill’s guest is Andy C., a Canadian attorney in recovery since 1977. Andy is the author of “Gems” a collection of reflections and meditations on insights and practices that can lead to a more meaningful, satisfying, and purposeful recovery. In this third episode, Fr Bill and Andy explore the nature and depth of SELF WILL and how the Steps are used to overcome it. Gems: Meditations on Alcoholism and Recovery by Andy C.

Visit Andy at his website: the Fourth Dimension https://the4thdimension.ca/

Fr. Bill’s guest is Andy C., a Canadian attorney in recovery since 1977. Andy is the author of “Gems” a collection of reflections and meditations on insights and practices that can lead to a more meaningful, satisfying, and purposeful recovery. In this second episode, Fr Bill and Andy explore serenity and how it’s related to emotional sobriety. 

Show Notes:

Gems: Meditations on Alcoholism and Recovery by Andy C.

Visit Andy at his website: the Fourth Dimension https://the4thdimension.ca/

Emotional Sobriety article by Bill Wilson

Fr. Bill’s guest is Andy C. an attorney in recovery since 1977 and living in Victoria, Canada. Andy is the author of “Gems” a collection of meditations on the various components and practices that can lead to meaningful, satisfying, and purposeful recovery. In this first episode, Andy shares his recovery story before he and Fr/ Bill dive into Andy’s first chapter distinguishing Long-termers from Old-timers. You’ll discover there’s a world of difference and find a few pitfalls to avoid along the way. 

Show Notes:

Gems: Meditations on Alcoholism and Recovery by Andy C.

Visit Andy at his website: The Fourth Dimension https://the4thdimension.ca/

In this classic episode, Fr. Bill visits with Yisrael C. to discuss the age-old question, "Are you spiritual or religous?" The discussion provides perspective and a deeper understanding of what it all means in relationship to recovery.

Yisrael C. has over 40 years in AA journeying from a Catholic kid in Philadelphia to an Orthodox Jew and stand-up comedian in Israel. Balancing tragedy and comedy, he works at the Holocaust Museum in Jerusalem and takes great joy helping newcomers find both sobriety and fun in recovery. Here’s a ⁠link⁠ to his full AA story.

Father Bill continues a series centered on Dr. Harry Tiebout, the first psychiatrist to recognize why AA worked while so many other methods (including his own) had failed. Tiebout also treated Bill Wilson for his depression and later served as an AA Trustee.

The series uses Hazelden’s book: Harry Tiebout: The Collected Writings as a source and, where available, adds pdf articles in the Show Notes. In this episode Fr. Bill explores Tiebout’s article: Anonymity, the Ego Reducer. This was a talk he delivered in 1955 at the AA World Convention in St. Louis. A free pdf link to Tiebout’s article is available below. Show Notes:

⁠Tiebout’s Collected Writings⁠

⁠Anonymity: The Ego Reducer⁠

Father Bill continues a series centered on Dr. Harry Tiebout, the first psychiatrist to recognize why AA worked while so many other methods (including his own) had failed. Tiebout also treated Bill Wilson for his depression and later served as an AA Trustee. The series uses Hazelden’s book: Harry Tiebout: The Collected Writings as a source and, where available, adds pdf articles in the Show Notes. In this episode Fr. Bill explores Tiebout’s classic article: Surrender vs Compliance. Tiebout believes compliance gets in the way of surrender but Fr. Bill isn’t so sure. See what you think. A free pdf version of Tiebout’s article is available in the show notes.

Show Notes:

Tiebout’s Collected Writings

Surrender vs Compliance article

Father Bill continues a series centered on Dr. Harry Tiebout, the first psychiatrist to recognize why AA worked while so many other methods (including his own) had failed. Tiebout also treated Bill Wilson for his depression and later served as an AA Trustee. The series uses Hazelden’s book: Harry Tiebout: The Collected Writings as a source and, where available, adds pdf articles in the Show Notes. In this episode Fr. Bill explores Tiebout’s classic article: Ego Factors in Surrender. If you want to know what’s going on when we’re feeling restless, irritable or filled with discontent, you won’t want to miss this episode. A free pdf version is available.

Show Notes:

Tiebouts Collected Writings and Ego Factors in Surrender

Father Bill continues a series centered on Dr. Harry Tiebout, the first psychiatrist to recognize why AA worked while so many other methods (including his own) had failed. Tiebout also treated Bill Wilson for his depression and later served as an AA Trustee. The series uses Hazelden’s book: Harry Tiebout: The Collected Writings as a source and, where available, adds pdf articles in the Show Notes. In this episode Fr. Bill explores Tiebout’s classic article: Ego Factors in Surrender. If you want to know what’s going on when we’re feeling restless, irritable or filled with discontent, you won’t want to miss this episode. This is Part Two.

Show Notes:       Tiebout’s Collected Writings

Ego Factors in Surrender (article)

Father Bill continues a series centered on Dr. Harry Tiebout, the first psychiatrist to recognize why AA worked while so many other methods (including his own) had failed. Tiebout also treated Bill Wilson for his depression and later served as an AA Trustee. The series uses Hazelden’s book: Harry Tiebout: The Collected Writings as a source and, where available, adds pdf articles in the Show Notes. In this episode Fr. Bill explores Tiebout’s 1949 article: The Act of Surrender in the Therapeutic Process. A free pdf version is available.

Show Notes:

Tiebout’s Collected Writings

Tiebout’s article: The Act of Surrender in the Therapeutic Process in pdf 

What Is a Psychic Change Podcast Episode – William James

Stages of Change

Tiebout Quote: “The dilemma of the alcoholic is now obvious. The unconscious mind rejects, through its capacity for defiance and grandiosity what the conscious mind perceives. Hence, realistically, the individual is frightened by his or her drinking and at the same time is prevented from doing anything about it by the unconscious activity that can and does ignore or override the conscious mind.”

Father Bill starts a new series centered around Dr. Harry Tiebout. He was the first psychiatrist to recognize why AA was being successful in treating alcoholics while so many other methods (including his own) had failed. Tiebout (pronounced (TEE-BOW) also treated Bill Wilson for his depression. The series uses Hazelden’s book: Harry Tiebout: The Collected Writings as a source and, where available, adds pdf articles in the Show Notes.

Show Notes:

∙    Tiebout’s Collected Writings

∙    Ego Factors in Surrender in Alcoholism

Fr. Bill continues a series highlighting the history and practice of Two Way Prayer as contained in his book expected to be published in the spring of 2024. In this episode he explores meaning of a “psychic change,” a “conversion experience or awakening,” as well as “the fourth dimension of existence.” The episode uses the works of Bill Wilson, William James, and Jungian analyst and author Robert Johnson. If you’ve ever wanted to explore “ego deflation at depth” this episode is for you.

Show Notes: 

Quotes from Wilson, James, Edinger and Johnson

William James Podcast Series

Book by Paul S. We Agnostics: How William James, Father of American Psychology, Advanced A Spiritual Solution to Addiction: How a Venerated Harvard Doctor Inspired the 12 Step Movement

Transformation by Robert A. Johnson

Fr. Bill continues a series highlighting the history and practice of Two Way Prayer. In this episode he focuses on the Four Absolutes: Honesty, Purity, Unselfishness, and Love. These principles were foundational for Dr. Bob and to many of the AA Pioneers. They’re still emphasized in Akron and Cleveland, Ohio but in few other places. This episode focuses on how they relate to Two Way Prayer.

Show Notes:

Fr. Bill continues a series highlighting the history and practice of Two Way Prayer. In this episode he focuses on the Four Absolutes: Honesty, Purity, Unselfishness, and Love. These principles were foundational for Dr. Bob and to many of the AA Pioneers. They’re still emphasized in Akron and Cleveland, Ohio but in few other places. This episode focuses on how they relate to Two Way Prayer.

Show Notes:

Not God, a History of Alcoholics Anonymous by Ernest Kurt.

Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions

The Four Absolutes

 A.J. Russell: For Sinner’s Only

Ivory Soap Commercial: Just want to see if anyone is really reading these things!

Fr. Bill continues a series highlighting the history and practice of Two Way Prayer. In this episode he shares step by step suggestions for a daily practice.

 Show Notes:

A Testament of Devotion by Thomas R. Kelly / Kelly’s first essay: The Light Within makes excellent Quiet Time reading. Here’s a pdf version of this contemplative classic.

Here’s a one-page guide with suggestions for doing the daily practice:

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Thomas Merton’s Prayer:

“My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me.

I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think that I am following your will does not mean that I am actually doing so.

But I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you. And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing.

I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire.

And I know that if I do this you will lead me by the right road, though I may know nothing about it.

Therefore will I trust you always, though I may seem to be lost and in the shadow of death.

I will not fear, for you are ever with me, and you will never leave me to face my perils alone.”

Big Book quote from page 87:

“What used to be the hunch or the occasional inspiration gradually becomes a working part of the mind. Being still inexperienced and having just made conscious contact with God, it is not probable that we are going to be inspired at all times. We might pay for this presumption in all sorts of absurd actions and ideas. Nevertheless, we find that our thinking will, as time passes, be more and more on the plane of inspiration. We come to rely upon it.

Fr. Bill continues his focus on Two Way Prayer. In this episode he explores why the AA Pioneer’s connection to the Oxford Group was downplayed in the Big Book and how knowing the history brings the practice alive in the pages devoted to Step Eleven.

Show Notes:

Quotations are from Pass It On:  https://www.aa.org/pass-it

Fr. Bill begins a short series focused on a new book he’s writing on Two Way Prayer. This episode gives a brief history of how the prayer practice developed within the Oxford Group and its important place in the early days of Alcoholics Anonymous. Fr. Bill draws on several quotations from AA literature telling how the practice was done by some of the early members.

Show Notes: 

“Where did we learn about moral inventory, amends for harm done, turning our wills and our lives over to God? Where did we learn about meditation and prayer and all the rest of it? The spiritual substance of our remaining ten Steps came straight from Dr. Bob’s and my own early association with the Oxford Groups….”     

                                            Bill Wilson, The Language of the Heart, p. 298.

“The central theme of Wright’s book (The Will of God and a Man’s Life Work) was that an individual could, through “two way prayer” - listening for guidance as well as talking - find God's will for his life and for the ordinary events of the day. Wright himself set aside half an hour for such listening prayer first thing every morning. At such times - and indeed at anytime in the day - he declared that what he called “luminous thoughts” came from God, provided only that the human receiver was clean enough to pick them up. These thoughts Wright wrote down in a notebook and always tried to carry out. 

                                                    Garth Lean, On the Tail of a Comet,  p.74. 

More Selections from ⁠Dr. Bob and the Good Old Timers & Pass It On⁠ in this episode.

Father Bill continues his interview with recovery teacher and spiritual guide Tyler D. from Dallas, Texas.  The series centers on Bill Wilson’s 12 & 12 quote: “There is a direct linkage among self-examination, meditation, and prayer. … But when they are logically related and interwoven, the result is an unshakeable foundation for life.” This episode is focused on helping us understand and begin the practice of meditation. 

Show Notes:

∙       Contact and information for Tyler D. http://tylerdawn.com/

∙       Prayer of St. Francis

∙       Lectio Divina

∙       Centering Prayer

∙       Insight Timer App

∙       Sharon Salzburg: https://www.sharonsalzberg.com/

∙       Richard Rohr: https://cac.org/about/what-is-contemplation/

∙       Jon Kabat-Zinn: https://jonkabat-zinn.com/

Father Bill continues his interview with spiritual recovery teacher and guide Tyler D. from Dallas, Texas.  The series builds on the Bill Wilson’s 12 & 12 quote: “There is a direct linkage among self-examination, meditation, and prayer. … But when they are logically related and interwoven, the result is an unshakeable foundation for life.” This episode explores various forms of prayer that can help in our recovery as well as make recovery more of the living adventure it can be. 

Show Notes:

Contact and information on Tyler D. http://tylerdawn.com/

Father Bill continues his interview with spiritual recovery teacher and guide Tyler D. from Dallas, Texas.  The series builds on the Bill Wilson’s 12 & 12 quote: “There is a direct linkage among self-examination, meditation, and prayer. … But when they are logically related and interwoven, the result is an unshakeable foundation for life.” This episode explores tools for watching ourselves and making Step Ten come to life in new and more meaningful ways.

Show Notes:

Contact and information on Tyler D. http://tylerdawn.com/

Invitation to the Great Experiment by Tom Powers. Purchase a hard copy at www.AllAddictsAnonymous.com/

Nikki Meyers 12 Step Yoga https://y12sr.com/

Father Bill begins a series of interviews with spiritual recovery teacher and guide Tyler D. from Dallas, Texas.  Long active in 12 Step recovery, Tyler is a registered yoga instructor and mindfulness teacher as well as a recent graduate in Spiritual Direction from SMU’s Perkins School of Theology. In this opening episode Tyler shares her story and sets the theme for the series built around the rewards a solid foundation can bring. Tyler genuinely “walks the walk” in 12 Step recovery and invites you to join her on this journey.

Show Notes:

Contact and information for Tyler D. http://tylerdawn.com/

In this final episode of the series, Dr. James Ryan, PhD author of a new book titled Recovery Writing,

leads listeners through a series of writing exercises that include an extended version of “The Conduct Inventory,” a second exercise titled “The Resilient Heart,” and finally a set of questions known as “The Audre Lorde Questionnaire to Oneself.”  We hope this series inspires you to pick up your pen and join Dr. Ryan in journeying deeper into the fullness and richness of recovery.

Show Notes:

∙       Recovery Writing: Discovery and Healing in the Twelve Steps by James Ryan.

∙       www.StepStudy.org 

∙       Audrey Lorde’s Four Questions: https://divyavictor.com/the-audre-lorde-questionnaire-to-oneself/

Fr. Bill and Dr. James Ryan, PhD author of a new book titled Recovery Writing finish up their discussion of how writing can be an aid in finding and building a deeper relationship with the Divine.

Show Notes:

∙       Recovery Writing: Discovery and Healing in the Twelve Steps by James Ryan.

∙       Step Study website: www.StepStudy.org

 Fr. Bill and Dr. James Ryan, PhD author of a new book titled Recovery Writing finish up their discussion of how writing can be an aid in finding and building a deeper relationship with the Divine.

Show Notes:

∙       Recovery Writing: Discovery and Healing in the Twelve Steps by James Ryan

∙       Step Study website: www.StepStudy.org

Fr. Bill continues his interviews with James Ryan, PhD author of a new book titled Recovery Writing. The series explores effective writing techniques used in 12 Step and other recovery modalities. James is in long term recovery with a strong interest in spirituality and in the Pioneer program of Alcoholics Anonymous. His website  www.StepStudy.org provides links to books and articles helpful for those ready to go deeper into AA history and recovery spiritually. James worked for several years in the addiction treatment field and now teaches writing at the University of Alaska. In this fourth episode, James shares from his research how writing can aid in connecting an addict with the realm of the divine. 

Show Notes:

Recovery Writing: Discovery and Healing in the Twelve Steps by James Ryan

Step Study website: www.StepStudy.org

The Voices Within and How We Talk to Ourselves by Charles Fernyhough (Lots of used copies available)

More than Real: A History of the Imagination in South India  by David Shulman  (Worth reseaching sources – this book is pricey) 

 Fr. Bill continues his interviews with James Ryan, PhD author of a new book titled Recovery Writing. The series explores writing techniques that have proved effective in 12 Step and other recovery modalities. James is in long term recovery with a strong interest in spirituality and in the Pioneer program of Alcoholics Anonymous. His website titled www.StepStudy.org provides links to books and articles helpful for many wanting to go deeper into AA history and recovery spiritually. James worked for several years in the addiction treatment field and now teaches writing at the university level. In this third episode, James begins to explore the four major “take-aways” from his research beginning with “How Writing Helps Us Get Honest.” 

Show Notes:

∙      Recovery Writing: Discovery and Healing in the Twelve Steps by James Ryan.

∙      Step Study website: www.StepStudy.org

Fr. Bill interviews James Ryan, PhD author of a new book titled Recovery Writing. The series explores writing techniques that have proved effective in 12 Step and other recovery modalities. James is in long term recovery with a strong interest in spirituality and in drawing insights from the Pioneer program of Alcoholics Anonymous. His website titled www.StepStudy.org provides links to books and articles helpful for many wanting to delve deeper into AA history and recovery spiritually. Clinically, James worked for several years in the addiction treatment field and now teaches writing at the university level. In this second episode, James continues sharing his recovery story and how it shaped his interest in writing.  Focus is on how writing benefits honesty. 

Show Notes:

∙      Recovery Writing: Discovery and Healing in the Twelve Steps by James Ryan.

∙      Step Study: www.StepStudy.org

Fr. Bill begins a new series on the benefits of writing in recovery. His guest is James Ryan, PhD author of a new book titled Recovery Writing. The series will explore several writing techniques that have proved effective in 12 Step and other recovery modalities. James is in long term recovery himself with a strong interest in spirituality and in the Pioneer program of Alcoholics Anonymous. Over the years, he’s grown a website titled www.StepStudy.org providing links to books and articles helpful for many wanting to delve deeper into AA history and recovery spiritually. James worked for several years in the addiction treatment field and now teaches writing at the university level. In this first episode, James shares his recovery story and early interest in writing.  

Show Notes: Recovery Writing: Discovery and Healing in the Twelve Steps⁠, by James Ryan.

Here's the Book's website: ⁠https://www.recoverywriting.org/ (it includes a contact form where people can share their stories about recovery writing practices that are valuable to them)

and The Blog: ⁠https://recoverywriting.substack.com/⁠ (where you can find new articles about recovery writing practices that were not covered in the book)

Jean Brown, a life-long member of the Oxford Group (now known as Initiatives of Change) sheds more light on the program and principles that gave birth to Alcoholics Anonymous. In this episode, Jean describes the original Quiet Time and Two Way Prayer practices of the Oxford Group that underlie the 11th Step. Jean is the author of “A Serious Guide to Remaking the World.” A free copy of this informative pamphlet is available in the Show Notes.

Show Notes:

·     A Serious Guide to Remaking the World, 2007 - by Jean Brown

·     The Listening to God Pamphlet by Chaplain John Batterson

·     How to Practice Two Way Prayer

·     Initiativesof Change https://iofc.org/en

·     If this episode has been helpful to you, please share and consider making a donation.

Jean Brown from Adelaide, Australia traces her life-long connection to the Oxford Group back for three generations. The Group later became known as Moral Rearmament and still operates as Initiatives of Change. In this two-part interview, Jean shares her personal story of change while shedding light on the original principles and practices that gave birth to the program of Alcoholics Anonymous. Jean is the author of “A Serious Guide to Remaking the World.” A free copy of this informative pamphlet is available below.

Show Notes:

·     A Serious Guide to Remaking the World, 2007 -  by Jean Brown

Psychologist Dr. Bruce P. from Los Angeles, California leads Fr. Bill and listeners through a series of brief meditations focused on the teachings of Eckhart Tolle. Several one-minute exercises bring the teachings alive in ways you won’t want to miss. A guide to the exercises is included in the Show Notes.

Show Notes:

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle - Purchase or find an online pdf version available free.

Contact Dr. Bruce at: [email protected]

Power of Now Lab Notes from Dr. Bruce

Overview:

(1)  The Purpose of these Practices

(2)  The Obstacles to Practice

(3)  The Benefits of the Practices

(4)  The Duration and Use of These Practices in Daily Life

One-Minute Thoughtless Awareness Practices

(1)  Observing the Breath without thought

(2)  Observing an Inner Body Sensation without thought

(3)  Listening without thought

(4)  Seeing without thought

Self Observation Practices

“Am I at ease?”

“Am I treating this moment as a means to an end?”

“Have I been thinking of the future or the past?”

“Am I wanting to be somewhere other than Where I am now?”

The Welcoming Prayer for Presence: Request a copy from Dr. Bruce

Psychologist Dr. Bruce P. from Los Angeles, California helps relate the works of Eckhart Tolle with the world of 12-Step recovery. Negative emotions are problems for many people but perhaps especially for addicts. AA co-founder Bill Wilson struggled with depression for many years after getting sober. His letter sharing his experience on the subject is in the Show Notes. Dr. Bruce explores the troubling world of emotions offering us a solution to our pain through accessing the Power of Now.

Show Notes:

Bill Wilson’s 1953 letter on Emotional Sobriety

Eckhart Tolle Key Quotes on Emotions:

• Pain is inevitable as long as you are identified with your mind. I am talking here primarily of emotional pain…Resentment, hatred, self-pity guilt, anger, depression, jealousy, and so on, even the slightest irritation, are all forms of pain.

• There are two levels to your pain: the pain you create now and the pain from the past that still lives on in your mind and body.

• As long as you are unable to access the power of the Now, every emotional pain that you experience leaves behind a residue of past pain that lives on in you. It merges with the pain from the past, which was already there, and becomes lodged in your mind and body. This includes the pain you suffered as a child, caused by the unconsciousness of the world into which you were born. This accumulated pain is a negative energy field that occupies your mind and body.

• The emotional pain-body has two modes of being: dormant and active. It may be dormant 90 percent of the time. In a deeply unhappy person it can be active 10 percent of the time. Some people only experience it in certain situations such as intimate relationships, or situations linked with past loss or abandonment, physical or emotional hurt, and so on.

• Anything can trigger it, particularly if it resonates with a pain pattern from your past…even a thought or an innocent remark made by someone close to you can activate it.

• Some pain bodies are obnoxious but relatively harmless, like a child who won’t stop whining. Others are vicious and destructive monsters. Some are physically violent, many more are emotionally violent. Some will attack people around you or close to you, while others may attack you, their host.

• Thoughts and feelings you have about your life then become deeply negative and self-destructive.

• The pain-body doesn’t want you to observe it directly and see it for what it is. The moment you observe the pain-body, feel its energy within you, and take your attention into it, the identification is broken. A higher dimension of consciousness has come in, I call it Presence. You are now the witness or the watcher of the pain-body. You have found your innermost strength.

• Watch out for any sign of unhappiness in whatever form---it may be the awakening pain body. This can take the form of irritation, impatience, a somber mood, a desire to hurt, anger, rage, a need to have some drama in your relationship and so on. Catch it the moment it awakens from its dormant state.

• Focus attention on the feeling inside you. Know that it is the pain-body. Accept that is there. Don’t think about it--don't let the feeling turn into thinking. Don’t judge or analyze. Stay present and continue to be the observer of what is happening inside you. Allow the pain to be transmuted into peace.

Psychologist Dr. Bruce P. from Los Angeles, California helps blend the works of Eckhart Tolle with the world of 12-Step recovery. Addicts aren’t alone in struggling with relationships. Often, we search for and marry a prince or a princess thinking they’ll save us only to see them before long turn into a frog – and sometimes even worse. Dr. Bruce explores the world of relationships offering us a way out through the Power of Now.

Show Notes

Eckhart Tolle Relationship Quotes:

• Unless and until you access the frequency of presence, all relationships, and particularly intimate relationships, are deeply flawed and dysfunctional.

•  They may seem perfect for a while, such as when you are “in love” but invariably that apparent perfection gets disrupted as arguments, conflicts, dissatisfaction and emotional or even physical violence occur with increasing frequency Love can turn into savage attack, feelings of hostility, of complete withdrawal of affection at the flick of a switch. And this is considered normal.

•  Relationships do not cause pain and unhappiness. They bring out the pain and unhappiness that is already in you. We use relationships or somebody to cover up our pain.

•  For love to flourish, the light of your presence needs to be strong enough so that you no longer get taken over by the thinker or emotional pain body and mistake them for who you are.

•  Can you change an addictive relationship into a true one? Yes, by intensifying your presence by taking your attention more deeply into the Now. 
• The greatest catalyst for change in a relationship is complete acceptance of your partner as he or she is, without needing to judge or change them in any way.

•  For presence to become deeply rooted, it must be tested in the fire of relationships.

•  Listening is the greatest thing you can do for your partner. Listening gives the other space to be.

•  Love as a continuous state is as yet very rare---as rare as conscious human beings. Brief and elusive glimpses of love, however, are possible, whenever there is a gap in the stream of mind.

•  Never before have relationships been as problematic and conflict-ridden as they are now. If you continue to pursue the goal of salvation through a relationship, you will be disillusioned again and again. But if you accept that the relationship is here to make you conscious instead of happy, then the relationship will offer you salvation, and you will be aligning yourself with the higher consciousness that wants to be born in this world.

Self Disclosure reference: https://www.encyclopedia.com/social-sciences-and-law/sociology-and-social-reform/sociology-general-terms-and-concepts/self-disclosure

Your Body Doesn’t Lie by John Diamond (pdf version)

Psychologist Dr. Bruce P. from Los Angeles, California helps blend the works of Eckhart Tolle with the world of 12-Step recovery. Many addicts struggle to find a concept of a Higher Power that can work successfully for them. Step Two becomes easier when an elusive search for “a Power greater than ourselves” shifts to “accessing the Power of Now.” In this episode Dr. Bruce describes how the terms God and Now may be synonymous and how a simple shift in consciousness into the “fourth dimension of existence” may be more easily accessible than you THINK. In fact, not THINKING might speed things up considerably!

Show Notes:

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle / You may also be able to find free pdf versions online.

Contact Dr. Bruce at: [email protected]

Be sure to visit us our YouTube Channel: Two Way Prayer @twowayprayer1335 – episodes generally post within a couple days following the podcast. You can meet Father Bill’s dog Maggie around minute 56 or so.

Here are the Tolle quotes used on this episode:

1. “The eternal present is the space within which your whole life unfolds. The Now is the only point that can take you beyond the limited confines of your mind. It is your only point of access into the timeless presence of God.”

2. “(When) the realm of Being, accessed through the portal of the Now, opens up, suddenly, a great stillness arises within you, an unfathomable peace. And within that peace, there is great joy.  And within that joy, there is love. And at the innermost core, there is the Sacred, that which cannot be named.”

3. “As soon as you honor the present moment, all unhappiness and struggle dissolve, and life begins to flow with joy and ease. When you act out of present moment awareness, whatever you do becomes imbued with a sense of quality, care, and love---even the most simple action.”

4. “When the compulsive striving away from the Now ceases, the joy of Being flows into everything you do. The moment your attention turns to the Now, you feel a presence, a stillness, a peace.” But the reverse is also true – is it not? – that when my compulsive thinking takes charge again and leads me away from the Now then I lose my connection with the Present Moment and I begin to feel restless, irritable, and discontent. 

5. “An amazing realization is that in the present moment there is only what is, but there are no problems. And if your attention remains in the Now, you no longer inhabit a world of problems.”

6. “Being is accessible to you NOW as your own deepest self, your true nature. But don’t seek to grasp it with your mind. Don’t try to understand it. You can only know it when the mind is still. When you are present, when your attention is fully and intensely in the NOW, Being / (God) can be felt, but it can never be understood mentally.”

Psychologist Dr. Bruce P. from Los Angeles, California helps blend the works of Eckhart Tolle with the world of 12-Step recovery. The Big Book tells us our “problem is in the Mind.” This episode takes a deep dive into the source of our compulsive thinking, first as it relates directly to physical addiction, but then as it traps us in a fearful state of separateness from God, from others, and from our True Selves. The Good News is escape is possible. Listen and start to find out HOW!

3 Quotes Related to THINKING from Eckhart Tolle that relates to "Unmanageable" thoughts and addiction:

1. I would say about 80-90% of most people's thinking is not only repetitive and useless, but beacuase of its dysfunctional and negative nature, much of it is harmful. Observe your mind and you will find this to be true.
2. This kind of cumpulsive thinking as actually an addiction. What characterizes an addiction? Quite simply this: you no longer feel nyou have the ability to stop.
3. Every addiction arises from an unconscious refusal to face and move through your own pain. Every addiction atarts with pain and ends with pain. Whatever you're addicted to (includes all involuntary compulsive mental-emotional habits and reactive patterns) you are using to cover up your pain.

Unmanageable (compulsive) thoughts related to everything else:

1. The more you are identified with your thinking, your likes and dislikes, judgments and interpretations, which is to say the less present your are as the wathching consciusness, the stronger the emotional charge (pain) will be whether you are aware of it or not.
2. The greatest obstacle to experiencing peace and the radiant joy of being is identification with your mind, which causes thought to become compulsive. Not to be able to stop thinking is a dreadful affliction... this incessant mental noise prevents you from finding the realm of inner stillness, peace, and joy.
3. The compulsive thinker, which means almost everyone, lives in a state of separateness, in an insanely complex world of continuous problems and conflict. Read more...

The Power of Now, by Eckhart Tolle.

If you would like to contact Dr. Bruce he can be reached by email.

If this information has been helpful to you consider making a donation to Two Way Prayer. Be sure to like, subscribe and share with others who could benefit from this message!

#Recovery, #KeepComingBack, #TwoWayPrayer

Psychologist Dr. Bruce P. from Los Angeles, California helps blend the works of Eckhart Tolle with the world of 12 Step recovery. Like the Big Book, The Power of Now has helped millions access the transforming Power for change that is already present in each of us only waiting to be unleashed. Come join us on the journey!

Show Notes:

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle / The llink will take you to Amazon but note there are pdf versions available online free.

Questions for Dr. Bruce P.? [email protected]

After practicing Two Way Prayer for nearly a year, Donna began a still deeper journey to depths of her Inner World. Her loving Higher Power encouraged her to invite DonDon, her inner child, to come sit with them at their morning table of prayer. So began a long series of inner dialogues that helped knit together the shattered life of a little girl who lost her father at the age of eight if not long before. These moving dialogues lift Donna’s prayer life into the healing sunlight of the Spirit. You’ll want to listen in as her Kid has a message of love and encouragement directed to each of our own.

Show Notes:

To write to Donna please send a note through [email protected]

Robert Johnson’s book Inner Work serves as a guide for those ready to bring Jung’s practice of Active Imagination into their prayer lives. You might also see Jungian analyst Barbara Hannah’s classic as well.

Donna came to recovery when her son entered treatment for gambling and drug addiction. She had done all she could do for him and knew she needed to “let go.” But how? The Voice Donna heard in Two Way Prayer helped guide her on the path that led to her own recovery. She recognized the loving Voice as HaShem – Hebrew for “The Name.” Few Two Way Prayer listeners hear the Voice as clearly and as beautifully as Donna records it daily in her journal. You won’t want to miss hearing these shares of gentle guidance and unconditional love.

To write to Donna, please send a note through Two Way Prayer

The Ego is usually reluctant (if not outright defiant) in humbly aligning itself with the Great Reality Within. Commenting on the necessary realignment and why we put it off for so long, Franciscan monk Richard Rohr is fond of saying, “There are only two things powerful enough to change a person: pain and prayer.” Then he adds wryly, “most of us choose pain!” Father Bill takes a pause in interviewing men and women embarked on their Inner Journeys to share why the journey is necessary and how Two Way Prayer and Inner work intersect to make us whole. 

Show Notes:

Brown’s quote: Midlife is when the universe gently places her hands upon your shoulders, pulls you close, and whispers in your ear: “I’m not screwing around. All of this pretending and performing—these coping mechanisms that you’ve developed to protect yourself from feeling inadequate and getting hurt—has to go. Your armor is preventing you from growing into your gifts.

I understand that you needed these protections when you were small. I understand that you believed your armor could help you secure all of the things you needed to feel worthy and lovable, but you’re still searching and you’re more lost than ever.

Time is growing short. There are unexplored adventures ahead of you. You can’t live the rest of your life worried about what other people think. You were born worthy of love and belonging. Courage and daring are coursing through your veins. You were made to live and love with your whole heart. It’s time to show up and be seen.

Ken Wilbur’s Four Pillars of Integral Consciousness: Wake Up, Clean Up, Grow Up, and Show Up 

Faithfully practicing Two Way Prayer for some time, Susanne built a powerful connection with God. In time, she was ready to venture still deeper into her Inner World starting an amazing dialogue with her lost inner child through a process C.G. Jung called “active imagination.” In this episode Susanne shares how she established contact with her “Kid” and reads some healing writings between her adult self and her inner child. She soon discovered the hole in the soul was being filled from within.

Show Notes:

Here are some guidelines for finding a prayer partner.

Robert A. Johnson’s book Inner Work is helpful in understanding how to gain access and begin dialoguing with our inner parts.

Father Bill begins interviewing people who’ve begun their Inner Journey with Two Way Prayer. Susanne was active in 12-Step recovery in the U.K. taking her work most seriously; but when she discovered Two Way Prayer it brought her recovery to a wholly new level. In this episode, Susanne describes the deepened relationship she found with her “Dad” as she calls her Higher Power and shares three samples of Guidance received during her morning Quiet Time. You’ll find Susanne’s writings filled with love and a real sense of “inner discovery” as both she and Father Bill share helpful tips for bringing this lost 11th Step practice to life.

Show Notes:

God Calling by Two Listeners (Edited by A.J. Russell)

Twenty Four Hour a Day Book by Richmond Walker (based on the writings of the two women in England who were members of the Oxford Group)

Prayer Partners - A pdf of suggested guidelines found on the Two Way Prayer website

Link to Big Book Awakening for Zoom Meetings in San Diego

If this episode has been helpful to you, please consider making a donation and share with others you feel may benefit from this message. 

Father Mike Falls helps us explore the Inner World of consciousness. Mike was a professional football player for the Dallas Cowboys when he heard and followed a call from his soul telling him it was time to make a change – a really big change. Mike listened and took the plunge; he discovered a whole new world awaited him. At the heart of that world, Mike discovered his soul in the form of his internally lost “Kid.” A gifted teacher and storyteller, Fr. Mike’s experience can guide us as we go in search of our own lost souls and perhaps uncover and befriend our lost inner kids. As the Big Book says, “MORE WILL BE REVEALED!”

Brene Brown quote: https://brenebrown.com/articles/2018/05/24/the-midlife-unraveling/

Christopher Morley Poem: To a Child https://allpoetry.com/poem/8519043-To-A-Child-by-Christopher-Morley/

Download and share with anyone who could benefit from this message and consider making a donation to twowayprayer.org/donate-1

Matt D., Executive Director All Addicts Anonymous (AAA) discusses the original AA Pioneer Program focusing on its evolution from the Oxford Group’s Four Absolutes of Honesty, Purity, Unselfishness, and Love into the 12 Steps as we know them today. This episode centers on the Ten Points distilled from Chapter Five of the Big Book. It takes us to the real depths of the transformation process.

Show Notes:

Link to the AAA Ten Points article.

Link to the Invitation to a Great Experiment article.

Gresham’s Law 

Vist All Addicts Anonymous for meeting information and if you'd like to contact Matt D. send an email.

Matt D., Executive Director All Addicts Anonymous (AAA) discusses the original AA pioneer program focusing on its evolution from the Oxford Group’s Four Absolutes of Honesty, Purity, Unselfishness, and Love into the 12 Steps as we know them today. The discussion centers on a 1973 article by Tom Powers, Jr. titled: The Twelve Step Ladder to God Consciousness. It’s available in the Show Notes.

Show Notes:

The Twelve Step Ladder to God Consciousness by Tom Powers, Jr.

Gresham’s Law and Alcoholics Anonymous by Tom Powers. Jr.

Bill Wilson recording of Spiritual Experience vs. Spiritual Awakening

Link to the All Addicts Anonymous for meeting information. To contact Matt D. email [email protected]

If this information has been helpful to you or someone you love, consider making a donation to Two Way Prayer. Thank you! 

Matt D., Executive Director All Addicts Anonymous (AAA) discusses the original AA pioneer program focusing on the Four Absolutes of Honesty, Purity, Unselfishness, and Love. In this episode Matt and Father Bill explore the deeper meaning of Love. Each chooses a reading that may help addicts in recovery uncover new meaning in this the most challenging and perhaps most rewarding of the Four Absolutes. Readings are available in the Show Notes notes below.

Show Notes:

No Greater Love – Matt’s reading from Sadhu Sundar Singh

The Love Chapter (First Corinthians 13) – Fr. Bill’s reading from Paul

Sadu Sundar Singh Wikipedia

Rev. Sam Shoemaker Wikipedia

The Answer to Addiction by John Burns – early publication of Invitation to a Great Experiment by Tom Powers - pdf version

The Four Loves by C.S. Lewis pdf version

The Greatest Thing in the world by Henry Drummond – pdf version

What Men Live By and Other Tales by Leo Tolstoy – pdf version

George MacDonald Scottish author – Wikipedia

Check out the All Addicts Anonymous website with meeting information and contact Matt D. via email

Matt D., Executive Director All Addicts Anonymous (AAA) discusses the original AA pioneer program focusing on the Four Absolutes of Honesty, Purity, Unselfishness, and Love. In this episode Matt and Father Bill explore the deeper meaning of UNSELFISHNESS. It appears we have two selves, two centers of consciousness – one at the level of BODY and another at the level of SOUL. Freeing ourselves from bondage to the one brings us to the freedom of the other. The episode builds on an article from the AAA archives titled Egotism: The Disease Within the Disease. It’s a powerful read available in the Show Notes.

Show Notes:

Article: Egotism - The Disease within the Diseases

All Addicts Anonymous website with meeting information. Contact Matt D. via email.

Matt D., Executive Director All Addicts Anonymous (AAA) discusses the original AA program focusing on the Four Absolutes of Honesty, Purity, Unselfishness, and Love. In this episode Matt and Father Bill explore the deeper meanings of PURITY. Of the Four Absolutes, it’s probably the least understood and the most feared and often discounted. It’s also the one that may prove the dangers of “half-measures.” The episode builds on an article from the AAA archives titled Frank Buchman’s Cure. It’s a short read available in the Show Notes.

Show Notes:

· Link to Frank Buchman’s Cure article

· Link to a Wikipedia article on Frank Buchman

· Twice Born Men by Harold Begbie pdf version

· More Twice Born Men by Harold Begbie pdf version

· Link to Professor Bernard McGinn's article on Sexuality and Mysticism

Reference to Wilson putting the Four Absolutes in Steps Six and Seven:

The Four Absolutes first appear in the work of Robert E. Speer, a Presbyterian missionary and scholar who studied the life and teachings of Jesus. Speer concluded that Jesus’ own life reflected a set of absolute moral standards that could effectively serve to guide us in determining the course and content of our thoughts, decisions, and actions. Speer grouped these moral guidelines under the headings of Honesty, Purity, Unselfishness and Love and they later formed the foundation of the Oxford Group program. When Bill Wilson was asked where the Absolutes could be found in his 12-Step formula, he replied, “I put them in Steps Six and Seven.”

(Ernest Kurtz, Not-God: A History of Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 242-43.)

The Cloud of Unknowing by Anonymous / Translated by Carmen Acevedo Butcher

https://www.amazon.com/Cloud-Unknowing-Book-Privy-Counsel/dp/1590306228/ref=sr_1_1?crid=AWW4CUA4O183&keywords=the+cloud+of+unknowing+translated+by+CArmen+Acevedo+Butcher&qid=1674503347&s=books&sprefix=the+cloud+of+unknowing+translated+by+carmen+acevedo+butcher%2Cstripbooks%2C114&sr=1-1

 Link to All Addicts Anonymous: alladdictsanonymous.org/

Matt D. can be reached via email at: [email protected]

Matt D., Executive Director All Addicts Anonymous (AAA) discusses the key building blocks of the original AA program. In this episode Matt and Father Bill begin an in-depth exploration of the Four Absolutes starting with HONESTY. The episode builds on Tom Power’s classic book Invitation to a Great Experiment along with Tom’s AA talk on “Sanity – the Heart of the Program.” It’s available in the Show Notes both in written and audio format. This is a Pioneer classic - not to be missed.

Show Notes:

Invitation to a Great Experiment by Tom Powers – see pages 10-22.

§ Sanity – the Heart of the Program by Tom P. (excerpts in written format)

§ Sanity – the Heart of the Program by Tom P. (full audio of Tom’s share known as the Blackstone Talk)

Father Bill's podcast series on The Great Experiment

Check out the All Addicts Anonymous website with meeting information here: https://alladdictsanonymous.org/

You're welcome to download and share the TWP Workshop Video on twowayprayer.org  If this podcast has been helpful for you, consider sharing it with another you think would benefit or share support in the form of making a small donation
Thanks!

Matt D. from All Addicts Anonymous (AAA) leads listeners in this series exploring the early history of the AA program. In this episode Dr. Bob’s influence is discussed along with an introduction to the Four Absolutes that Bob and many of the Pioneers saw as the heart of the program and continued using in conjunction with the 12 Steps. (Fr. Bill had some audio issues in the first half of the recording, and we’ve attempted to edit these out where possible.  Matt’s sound is crystal clear and his message is important so please don’t miss this one.)

Show Notes:

A classic archive video of Dr. Bob’s Last Major Address to Alcoholics Anonymous in 1948.

A Manual for Alcoholics Anonymous – early AA publication from AA in Akron.

Check out the All Addicts Anonymous website for meeting information. If you would like to contact Matt D., send him an email! [email protected]

Jungian analyst and clinical psychologist Dr. Ian McCabe concludes his journey through the 12 Steps from a Jungian perspective. This final episode focuses on the “Last Three Steps;” but rather than seeing these as “maintenance Steps” both Jungians and AA Pioneers might describe them as a formula for living life where the EGO aligns itself in service to the Self and follows its DIRECTIONS. It proves to be the “easier, softer Way.”

Show Notes:

Carl Jung and Alcoholics Anonymous by Ian McCabe

Ego and Archetype by Edward Edinger

Jungian analyst John Sanford

Answer to Job by Carl Jung – pdf version

Transformation of the God-Image: An Elucidation of Jung's Answer to Job by Edward Edinger

Jungian analyst and clinical psychologist Dr. Ian McCabe continues leading listeners on a journey through the 12 Steps "from a Jungian perspective." Fully half of the 12 Steps are about “cleaning up” our relationships with ourselves, with others, and with the “Greater Personality” or as the Big Book calls it: the “Great Reality” within. Father Bill refers to these six Steps as the “CORRECTION PHASE” of the program and the discussion centers on facing and assimilating the Shadow part of ourselves.

Show Notes:

Carl Jung and Alcoholics Anonymous by Ian McCabe

If this series has been helpful to you, please be sure to share it with others that may benefit from the message and consider making a donation in support of twowayprayer.org

Jungian analyst, clinical psychologist and student of AA history Dr. Ian McCabe and Father Bill W. take a deep dive into the insights a Jungian approach to Steps 2 and 3 might convey.

Show Notes:

Carl Jung and Alcoholics Anonymous by Ian McCabe

For information on Bill Wilson’s experimentation with LDS see: Distilled Spirits -- Getting High, Then Sober, With a Famous Writer, a Forgotten Philosopher, and a Hopeless Drunk by Don Lattin. Here’s a brief outline:

Distilled Spirits blends a religion reporter's memoir with the compelling stories of three men--Aldous Huxley, Gerald Heard, and Bill Wilson--who transformed the landscape of Western religion and spirituality in the twentieth century. Huxley, celebrated author of Brave New World, ignited a generation that chased utopian dreams and sought enlightenment through psychedelic drugs. Heard, an Anglo-Irish mystic, journeyed to California with Huxley in the 1930s to lay the foundations for the New Age and human potential movements. Wilson, the co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, joined forces with Huxley and Heard in the 1940s and 1950s, when Wilson began a series of little-known experiments to see if LSD could be used to help diehard drunks.

Their life stories are gracefully brought together by veteran journalist Don Lattin. Lattin recounts his own rocky personal journey from 1960s and 1970s counter-culture, through the fast-living, cocaine-fueled 1980s and 1990s, to his long struggle to get sober. By weaving an intimate account of his own recovery with the lives of the book's three central characters, Lattin shows us the redemptive power of storytelling, the strength of fellowship, and the power of living more
compassionately, one day at a time.

In this episode Fr. Bill and his guest Dr. Ian McCabe explore Step One of Alcoholics Anonymous. Discussion centers on the physical, mental, and spiritual dynamics at play in addiction.

Show Notes:

Carl Jung and Alcoholics Anonymous by Ian McCabe

Dr. Ian McCabe, contact info: [email protected]

Ego and Archetype by Edward Edinger

Eric Erickson’s Eight Stages of Development

C.J. Jung’s Answer to Job, free pdf. version

In this episode Fr. Bill’s guest Dr. Ian McCabe explores Bill Wilson’s spiritual experience in Towns Hospital as well as Bill’s prior spiritual encounters that Bill often referred to as an experience of “the Presence.” The discussion sheds clarity on the goal of recovery which is not the elimination of EGO but bringing the EGO into RIGHT RELATIONSHIP with the GREATER SELF.

Show Notes:

Carl Jung and Alcoholics Anonymous by Ian McCabe

Bill W: My First 40 Years

“When (Roman Emperor) Marcus Aurelius gazed upon a bottle of the exquisite Falernian wine, therefore, he would remind himself that it was merely fermented grape juice, and that the fine meat dishes set before him were just the corpses of fish, birds, and pigs…”  (Meditations, 6.13).

Father Bill and Jungian analyst Dr. Ian McCabe continue a series of interviews exploring the aims and overlaps of the 12-Step recovery journey with Jung’s goal of individuation. Dr. McCabe hails from Dublin, Ireland holding several advanced degrees in psychology and addiction. He is the author of the book Carl Jung and Alcoholics Anonymous that will be used to guide the discussions. In this episode Dr. McCabe explains the basic building blocks of consciousness followed by an in-depth discussion of the elements needing to undergo transformation in the soul in order to find recovery. Dr. McCabe and Fr. Bill explore Bill Wilson’s childhood traumas.

Carl Jung and Alcoholics Anonymous by Ian McCabe

The Phenomenon of Man by French Jesuit Teilhard de Chardin

To Have or to Be by Erich Fromm

Recent NY Times article on EMDR

A Jungian Guide to the 12-Step Journey: Father Bill and Jungian analyst Dr. Ian McCabe begin a series of interviews exploring the aims and overlaps of the 12-Step recovery journey with Jung’s goal of individuation. Dr. McCabe hails from Dublin, Ireland holding several advanced degrees in psychology, law, and addiction. He is the author of the book Carl Jung and Alcoholics Anonymous that will be used to guide the discussions. In this episode Dr. McCabe shares his story and tells what he hopes his book might help us achieve. Additionally, the episode sets the background for linking Jung with AA.

Show Notes:

Carl Jung and Alcoholics Anonymous by Ian McCabe

Bill Wilson’s Biography: My First Forty Years (Sadly the book transcribed from interviews covers only the early part of Bill’s story.)

Margarita Von Lüttichau: Intermediary between Jung and Bill Wilson

Robert A Johnson books mentioned:

Transformation: a study of three levels of consciousness

He: Johnson’s description of the Hero’s Journey

Inner Gold: Johnson’s description of human projection

Erich Neumann – one of Jung’s most gifted students.

Father Bill completes exploring whatever void religion might fill within 12-Step programs. His guest is Matt D., Executive Director of All Addicts Anonymous. Matt has been a previous guest on the podcast and has extensive knowledge about and first-hand experience with many of the Pioneers in the AA program. This episode is focused on identifying several spiritual practices common to many religions but, of necessity, missing from 12-Step programs.

Show Notes:

Here’s a link to the All Addicts Anonymous website. Be sure to order the book Invitation to a Great Experiment by Tom Powers.

Here’s a classic AA talk by Tom Powers

A link to the previous podcastn series of interviews with Matt D

Link to a previous podcast on Gresham’s Law

Basic information on Lectio Divina

Basic information on Gerald Heard

Bill Wilson telling why he preferred “spiritual experience” over “spiritual awakening."

Article by Fater Bill on the Four Absolutes

Father Bill explores the place of religion within 12-Step recovery. In this episode he interviews Major David Sams, Administrator of the Salvation Army’s Adult Rehabilitation Center in Washington, D.C. Building on his years in recovery, David is a strong proponent of AA. The episode focuses on the Salvation Army’s long history of helping alcoholics and addicts from the mid-1800’s to the present day. You’ll learn about its founder General William Booth and how the Army integrates the 12-Steps into its 6-month residential centers. With a host of treatment centers charging thousands of dollars for short-term treatment, it’s good to know there’s a place that charges nothing and is the largest provider of services in the U.S. Think you’ll enjoy this!

Show Notes:

·William Booth, Founder of the Salvation Army / Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Booth

Excellent YouTube video on the history of the Salvation Army: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1M8_7X_d4Zk

Brief article on the new Methodist Connexion

Twice Born Men by Harold Bigby / Popular in the Oxford Group

In Darkest England and The Way Out / Booth’s classic assessment of the problem and solution

William James quotes S.H. Hadley in “Varieties of Religious Experiences”

Father Bill continues a deep dive exploring the place of religion within 12-Step recovery. Worldwide, and within 12-Step Fellowships, membership in religious bodies continues a steady decline, while the hunger for spiritual connection seems to grow steadily. This episode continues to ask what religions may have to contribute to our spiritual growth and why it’s often so difficult to join the worlds of recovery and religion. Fr. Bill asks if most addicts may just be misplaced mystics!

The McGinn book referenced is The Essential Writings of  Christian Mysticism by Bernard McGinn:

• Here’s also a good YouTube lecture by McGinn
• An excellent discussion by three mystics from different faith traditions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8G3Oau9Q4uQ

Books by John Dominic Crossan

Books by Marcus Borg

Books by Elaine Pagels

Phyllis Tickle: Short video on her book The Great Emergence: How Christianity Is Changing and Why

Carl Jung: Short video by Edward Edinger with his views on the importance of a spiritual life.

Father Bill shares an important writing by Rev. Sam Shoemaker. He is the Oxford Group leader Bill Wilson credits with teaching him no fewer than ten of the twelve Steps. Titled, “What the Church Has to Learn from Alcoholics Anonymous,” Fr. Bill reads the complete article. It’s also available in written form through the Step Study.

Show Notes: 

Link to Sam Shoemaker’s “What the Church Has to Learn from Alcoholics Anonymous”

Father Bill concludes his series of interviews with Stephen R. Haynes, professor of religious studies at Rhodes College and adjunct professor of recovery at Fuller Theological Seminary. Stephen’s new book Why Can’t the Church Be More Like an AA Meeting? explores the similarities and differences between communities of faith and communities of recovery. Stephen has traveled both worlds and shares insights and experiences gained along the way. This episode explores how churches and 12 Step fellowships approach sexual addictions or as Dr. Haynes terms it, “the pornification of society.”

Show Notes:

Why Can’t Church Be More Like an AA Meeting? by Stephen R. Haynes.

Your Brain on Porn website: www.YourBrainOnPorn.com

The statistics quoted from a study by Jennifer Johnson at Virginia Commonwealth University: (see page 183 of Stephen’s book)

• Johnson’s team found that 51%of college men in their study masturbated to pornography several times a week, 19%used it several times per month, and 13.5%were daily users.”

Father Bill continues a series of interviews with Stephen R. Haynes, professor of religious studies at Rhodes College and adjunct professor of recovery at Fuller Theological Seminary. Stephen’s new book Why Can’t the Church Be More Like an AA Meeting? explores the similarities and differences between communities of faith and communities of recovery. Stephen has traveled both worlds and shares insights and experiences gained along the way. This episode explores the Oxford Group, its founder Frank Buchman, and the religious background from which they came as well as exploring the balancing of religion and recovery.

Show Notes:

Why Can’t Church Be More Like an AA Meeting? by Stephen R. Haynes.

Biography of Frank Buchman See: Garth Lean; On the Tail of a Comet

Sample of Thomas Power’s speaking at an AA conference

Rupert Sheldrake

Father Bill begins a series of interviews with Stephen R. Haynes, professor of religious studies at Rhodes College and adjunct professor of recovery at Fuller Theological Seminary. Stephen’s new book explores the similarities and differences between communities of faith and communities of recovery. Stephen has traveled both worlds and shares his insights and experiences gained and researched along the way. In this episode, Stephen shares his recovery and faith stories, laying the groundwork for the series.

Show Notes:

Why Can’t Church Be More Like an AA Meeting? by Stephen R. Haynes.

Father Bill completes the series with the help of Mike V. from Akron, Ohio. Mike and Fr. Bill share some of their experiences with shadow work and how they integrate it into their practice of Two Way Prayer.

Show Notes:

Owning Your Own Shadow: Understanding the Dark Side of the Psyche by Robert A. Johnson

Robert Johnson YouTube Lecture on Shadow

Robert Johnson YouTube Lecture on Active Imagination

Robert Johnson book: Inner Work

Fr. Bill continues the study of the human Shadow ala Robert A. Johnson.  This episode completes the reading of Johnson’s book arriving at the holy place where paradoxes collide to form something wholly new. Johnson makes use of "the mandorla" to describe this. Mandorla is Italian for the almond shape formed when two circles begin to overlap. Something new is created in the center. It may be what the Big Book terms “the fourth dimension of existence.”

Show Notes:

Owning Your Own Shadow: Understanding the Dark Side of the Psyche by Robert A. Johnson

Fr. Bill continues an exploration of the Shadow ala Robert A. Johnson.  This episode looks at how we project our Shadow onto others. “It’s a spiritual axiom that any time I am disturbed there’s something wrong with the people around me!”

Show Notes:

Owning Your Own Shadow: Understanding the Dark Side of the Psyche by Robert A. Johnson

Fr. Bill follows Robert Johnson down into the workings of the Shadow-side of our personalities. Johnson uses the example of the seesaw to show the danger of attempting to focus attention on only one side of the personality. If we try to become “holy” instead of trying to become “whole” – we miss the center of the seesaw – we miss discovering who we are. The Seventh Step prayer reminds us, “My Creator, I am now willing that you should have all of me, good and bad.” We find our balance in wholeness, not in one-sided holiness.

Show Notes:

Owning Your Own Shadow: Understanding the Dark Side of the Psyche by Robert A. Johnson

Fr. Bill explores the origins of shadow within the development of human consciousness. To adapt to culture, to become civilized, we must each pay a price. That price is the repression of the things in us that both society and we ourselves deem unacceptable. Push these things down and they form a shadow in us. Let them build and fester and they’re likely to explode. Befriend them, engage them consciously and they can become a source of hidden power and inner gold. This is the recovery journey. Tell Nancy, it's a whole lot more than JUST SAY NO!

Show Notes:

Owning Your Own Shadow: Understanding the Dark Side of the Psyche by Robert A. Johnson

Father Bill begins another series based on the work of Jungian analyst Robert A. Johnson. Johnson’s book explores Jung’s concept of the Shadow – the hidden, denied, unrealized parts of us that have a life of their own and a way of making their presence felt through explosive bursts of anger or more slowly through lingering depression. The point is, they will come out of their hiding place sooner or later - the good news is they often come bearing gifts of gold.

Show Notes:

Owning Your Own Shadow: Understanding the Dark Side of the Psyche by Robert A. Johnson

In late July, Father Bill joined a marathon meeting of alcoholics from around the world honoring the memory of Mike McK., founder of RecoveryTapers. This would have been Mike’s 19th anniversary of recovery. During the pandemic, Mike hosted dozens and dozens of Two Way Prayer workshops and helped introduce many thousands to the transformational prayer practice. Fr. Bill shares his own recovery story.

Show Notes:

To access the other memorial speakers please visit www.recoverytapers.org / In SEARCH type in: "Worldwide"

Father Bill joins Justin B. from the Reco12 podcast for a discussion of the role C. J. Jung played in the development of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Show Notes:

Reco12 podcast:https://reco12.buzzsprout.com/1117700/11049225-father-bill-w-carl-jung-and-the-recovery-journey-meeting-112/

Reco12’s Resources from this podcast:
Flammarian Engraving
Robert Johnson Works
Father Bill W Podcast
Edward Edinger Works
Carl Jung Works
Two Way Prayer

Father Bill continues a deep dive into this Oxford Group set of instructions for practicing Two Way Prayer. This episode explores the Original Pamphlet’s advice for “checking” the guidance you receive. Early AAs knew not every thought they wrote down came from God and the pamphlet provides some simple criteria to help in your discernment. You’ll find this episode filled with practical advice to keep you from straying too far afield.

Show Notes:

God Calling by Two Listeners, edited by A.J Russell

24 Hour a Day Book, by Richmond Walker

Not God, A History of Alcoholics Anonymous, by Ernest Kurtz

https://www.amazon.com/Not-God-Alcoholics-Ernest-Kurtz/dp/0894860658

Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers, AA publication

Original Oxford Group Pamphlet

Two Way Prayer - AA's Lost Tool for Practicing the 11th Step

Two Way Prayer YouTube Channel

To support Father Bill W. and Two Way Prayer with a donation, please visit: https://www.twowayprayer.org/donate-1

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Father Bill continues a deep dive into this Oxford Group set of instructions for practicing Two Way Prayer. This episode explores the Original Pamphlet’s advice for preparing to pray, listing during prayer, and writing down the Guidance received in a prayer session. You’ll find this episode filled with practical advice for making this lost,  “life-changing” 11th Step prayer practice your own.

Show Notes:

God Calling by Two Listeners, edited by A.J Russell

24 Hour a Day Book, by Richmond Walker

Not God, A History of Alcoholics Anonymous, by Ernest Kurtz

https://www.amazon.com/Not-God-Alcoholics-Ernest-Kurtz/dp/0894860658

Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers, AA publication

Original Oxford Group Pamphlet

Two Way Prayer - AA's Lost Tool for Practicing the 11th Step

To support Father Bill W. and Two Way Prayer with a donation, please visit: https://www.twowayprayer.org/donate-1

If this has been helpful to you; please like, subscribe, share, and keep coming back!

Father Bill continues a deep dive into this Oxford Group set of instructions for being loved and guided by an Inner Voice. Like any experiment, the process requires a degree of “open mindedness” and “willingness” to begin. This episode focuses on the pamphlet’s assertion that “God has an interest and plan for each of us” as well as “an answer for every need and problem we face.” This pamphlet has proved a Life-Changer to many in 12-Step recovery.

Show Notes:

A.A. Comes of Age: https://www.aa.org/alcoholics-anonymous-comes-age/

First Corinthians 13: https://biblia.com/bible/esv/1-corinthians/13/

Henry Drummond, The Greatest Thing in the World pdf version (A commentary on the above popular with Dr. Bob and early AA’s.) https://manybooks.net/titles/drummondh1673916739-8.html/

Three Scriptures popular with the Oxford Group and early AAs. (Dr. Bob's Legacy) - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1u_RW58z7d_4fPIKs3E3vJH0MtVpwXNuZ/view?usp=sharing 

Original Oxford Group Pamphlet

Two Way Prayer - AA's Lost Tool for Practicing the 11th Step 

To support Father Bill W. and Two Way Prayer with a donation, please visit: https://www.twowayprayer.org/donate-1

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Father Bill starts a deep dive into this Oxford Group set of instructions for finding and being guided by the Inner Voice – what the Big Book calls: “the Great Reality within.” The journey requires our entering and experimenting within the laboratory of our own lives. In this episode the relationship between the three dimensional world of our egos and the fourth dimensional world of Spirit are explored.

Show Notes:

The Original Oxford Group Pamphlet- https://rb.gy/ysdwpr

TWP Handout by Fr. Bill W. - https://rb.gy/zlnmci

Book Reference: Carl Jung and Alcoholics Anonymous by Ian McCabe (pp. 78-79) https://rb.gy/nbeqib

To support Father Bill W. and Two Way Prayer with a donation, please visit: https://www.twowayprayer.org/donate-1

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This series explores the Oxford Group pamphlet “How to Listen to God.” Written in the late 1930’s by Ohio based Chaplain John Batterson, it summarizes the original practice of Two Way Prayer. The pamphlet circulated widely in Akron, Ohio among AA’s early members and was reintroduced to the recovery community largely through the tireless efforts of AA archivist Wally P. originator of the popular Back to Basics series that takes newcomers through the 12-Steps in 4-week sessions. Wally is Father Bill’s guest, and the pamphlet along with his website and other works are linked below.

How to Listen to God by Wally P. https://rb.gy/dz6qe0

Back to Basics of Recovery Book by Wally P. - https://shop.aabacktobasics.org/Back-to-the-Basics-of-Recovery-p/b2br-book-br.htm

Wally P.’s website http://www.aabacktobasics.org/wallybio.html  Book Store - https://shop.aabacktobasics.org

Copy of the Oxford Group / Batterson Pamphlet: https://www.twowayprayer.org/resources

Father Bill explores recovery as experienced by African Americans coming into AA. His guest is Mark Sanders, LCSW, CADC founder of the Online Museum of African American Addictions, Treatment and Recovery. Mark has nearly 40 years in the addiction treatment field teaching at the University of Chicago, Illinois State University, and Loyola University School of Social Work. In this lively discussion Mark shares his experience in working effectively with African Americans both in treatment and in a 12-Step recovery.

Show notes:

Mark Sanders, LCSW, CADC, is an international speaker, trainer, and consultant in the behavioral health field whose work has reached thousands throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, Caribbean and British Islands.

Mark is the author of five books, which focus on behavioral health. Recent writings include Slipping through the Cracks: Intervention Strategies for Clients Multiple Addictions and Disorders, Recovery Management: and Relationship Detox: Helping Clients Develop Healthy Relationships in Recovery. He has had two stories published in the New York Times best-selling books series, Chicken Soup for the Soul. Mark has been a certified addictions counselor for 34 years. He has received numerous awards including a Life-Time Achievement Award from the Illinois Addiction Counselor Certification Board and the Barbara Bacon Award for outstanding contributions to the Social Work profession as a Loyola University of Chicago Alumni.

Mark is co-founder of Serenity Academy of Chicago, the only recovery high school in Illinois. He is past president of the board of the Illinois Chapter of NAADAC. He has had a 30-year career as a university educator having taught at the University of Chicago, Illinois State University, Illinois School of Professional Psychology, and Loyola University of Chicago, School of Social Work.

The Online Museum of African American Addictions, Treatment and Recovery: http://www.museumofafricanamericanaddictionsrecovery.org/

Sharon Wegscheider-Cruse: author and developer of family systems therapy:  https://www.amazon.com/Another-Chance-Health-Alcoholic-Family/dp/0831400722/

William White: Historian of addiction treatment. See his book Slaying the Dragon: https://www.amazon.com/Slaying-Dragon-Addiction-Treatment-Recovery/dp/093847507X/

My Grandmother’s Hand:  https://www.amazon.com/My-Grandmothers-Hands-Racialized-Pathway/dp/1942094477/

The Body Keeps the Score By Bessel van der Kolk, M.D. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=the+body+keeps+the+score&i=stripbooks&crid=35TZEEDH97I0N&sprefix=body%2Cstripbooks%2C88&ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_4/

Frederick Douglas and Malcolm X: African Americans in recovery: https://facesandvoicesofrecovery.org/resource/addiction-in-the-african-american-community-the-recovery-legacies-of-frederick-douglass-and-malcolm-x/

Rites of Passage: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rite_of_passage/

What Ever Happened to Daddy's Little Girl: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/254931.Whatever_Happened_to_Daddy_s_Little_Girl_

Motivational Interviewing: rb.gy/ic5kun

When young people come into a 12-Step Fellowship they bring special needs that should be addressed if recovery’s to be effective and lasting. Fr. Bill interviews Kirk Campbell who brings many years in the field assisting young addicts. Kirk is the Director of Cornerstone Team Counseling in Houston, Texas. The episode describes the concept of Alternative Peer Groups, now considered a best practice in adolescent recovery. Kirk takes the directive seriously: “We are not a glum lot!”

Show Notes:

Contact Kirk at: [email protected]/

The Two Way Prayer study referenced can be found on the RESOUCE PAGE

https://www.twowayprayer.org/It’s titled: Two Way Prayer: A Lost Tool for Practicing AA’s 11thStep

Here’s the link to the Alternative Peer Group Association:  http://www.aapg-recovery.com/

This series focuses on those coming to 12-Step recovery for alcohol or drugs but challenged by issues such as anxiety, depression, sexual and emotional traumas as well as those who are members of minority and marginalized populations. Fr. Bill continues his interview with Paul S., author of Paths to Recovery for Gay and Bisexual Drug Addicts. Paul has many years in 12-Step recovery, counseling and in helping gay and other marginalized groups find recovery.

Show Notes:

Paul’s book discussed in this episode is: Paths to Recovery for Gay and Bisexual Drug Addicts https://www.amazon.com/Paths-Recovery-Bisexual-Drug-Addicts/dp/1442249986

Paul’s book on William James is here: https://rb.gy/rpvnlr

Other works mentioned in the episode:

The Body Keeps the Score: https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748/

Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl – pdf version https://blog.12min.com/mans-search-for-meaning-pdf-summary/

Answer to Job by Carl Jung – pdf version https://cdnimpuls.com/politiko.al/uploads/2019/09/C.-G.-Jung-Answer-to-Job-Princeton-University-Press-1952.pdf/

The Essential Writings of Christian Mysticism by Bernard McGinn https://www.amazon.com/Essential-Writings-Christian-Mysticism-Classics/dp/0812974212/

To support Father Bill W. and Two Way Prayer with a donation, please visit: https://www.twowayprayer.org/donate-1

If this has been helpful to you; please like, subscribe, share, and keep coming back!

This series is focused on those coming to 12-Step recovery for alcohol or drugs but challenged by issues such as anxiety, depression, sexual and emotional traumas, as well as those who are members of minority populations. Fr. Bill launches the series interviewing Paul S., author of Paths to Recovery for Gay and Bisexual Drug Addicts, where they share insights from many years in 12-Step recovery.

Show Notes:

Paul’s book is available here: https://www.amazon.com/Paths-Recovery-Bisexual-Drug-Addicts/dp/1442249986

Paul's book on William James and the 12_Steps, We Agnostics: https://rb.gy/eth4bm

This is the first of several planned interviews with women and men in recovery sharing their experience with Two Way Prayer. Sid found recovery at age 18 and became a bit of a “12 Step Fundamentalist” prior to digging into AA history where he discovered the Pioneer Program and underwent a much deeper spiritual awakening. It appears the future of recovery is in good hands with some of our younger members.

Show Notes: If you’d like to share or reach out to Sid, please write him at: [email protected]

To support Father Bill W. and Two Way Prayer with a donation, please visit: https://www.twowayprayer.org/donate-1

If this has been helpful to you; please like, subscribe, share, and keep coming back!

Father Bill completes this deep dive into Robert Johnson’s Inner Gold: Understanding Psychological Projection. This episode examines the search for the “Heavenly Jerusalem.” That’s the Christian symbol for the wholeness we all seek. Johnson warns of the danger in approaching this search “literally” rather than symbolically or ceremonially. He also congratulates and affirms all of us addicts who were, in essence, truly seeking wholeness but going about it in wrong and deeply destructive ways. In the end, spirituality proves to be “the easier, softer way.”

Show Notes:

Inner Gold: Understanding Psychological Projection by Robert A. Johnson. https://www.amazon.com/Inner-Gold-Understanding-Psychological-Projection/dp/1630514632

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Father Bill continues a deep dive into Robert Johnson’s Inner Gold: Understanding Psychological Projection. This episode examines the love story told by Dante in his Divine Comedy. The vision of his beloved but elusive Beatrice captivates him and marks him for life. Holding on to the vision while learning to “live life on life’s terms” sends him on a journey to hell and back. It’s a story and a journey we can all relate to and one that Robert Johnson tells so very well.

Show Notes:

Inner Gold: Understanding Psychological Projection by Robert A. Johnson. https://www.amazon.com/Inner-Gold-Understanding-Psychological-Projection/dp/1630514632

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Father Bill continues a deep dive into Robert Johnson’s Inner Gold: Understanding Psychological Projection. This episode examines loneliness from three perspectives: Loneliness for the PAST, the Loneliness for WHAT IS NOT YET, and the Loneliness of BEING CLOSE TO GOD. As the Big Book says, we addicts will “know loneliness such as few do.” Johnson points us to the only solution for loneliness: SOLITUDE!

Show Notes:

Inner Gold: Understanding Psychological Projection by Robert A. Johnson. https://www.amazon.com/Inner-Gold-Understanding-Psychological-Projection/dp/1630514632

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Father Bill continues a deep dive into Robert Johnson’s Inner Gold: Understanding Psychological Projection. This episode examines our relationship with God in the modern era. The rules that used to apply no longer work and a new solution has not yet arrived. Bill Wilson learned some of the lessons discussed as he dealt with his depression after many years sober. A link to his article is in the Show Notes.

Show Notes:

Inner Gold: Understanding Psychological Projection by Robert A. Johnson. https://www.amazon.com/Inner-Gold-Understanding-Psychological-Projection/dp/1630514632

Three Faces of Love – A YouTube talk by Robert A. Johnson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QR9na8rbrHI

Emotional Sobriety by Bill Wilson (1953) https://www.e-aa.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=16330

Image of a priest holding a monstrance: https://rb.gy/gwbztu

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Often we project onto others the things we are not ready or willing to see in ourselves. Father Bill uses Robert Johnson’s book Inner Gold to explore how projection works in recovery. Johnson is a gifted teacher sharing insights and stories to help readers recover the gold that lies hidden inside us all. Join the expedition and stake a claim to your treasure!

Show Notes:

Inner Gold: Understanding Psychological Projection by Robert A. Johnson.

https://www.amazon.com/Inner-Gold-Understanding-Psychological-Projection/dp/1630514632

A New Pair of Glasses by Chuck C. This little book is an AA classic and belongs in every recovery library.

https://www.amazon.com/New-Pair-Glasses-Chuck-Chamberlain/dp/B001GROGCO

Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl. This book has helped many find the key to meaning and purpose in recovery.

https://www.amazon.com/Mans-Search-Meaning-Viktor-Frankl/dp/080701429X

Rites of Passage. Most every primitive and tribal culture developed Rites of Passage to initiate young boys as they moved into manhood.

See a general description here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rite_of_passage

See Richard Rohr’s book on the subject here:

https://www.amazon.com/Wild-Man-Wise-Reflections-Spirituality/dp/0867167408/ref=asc_df_0867167408/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312407247347&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3376962776403465728&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9028223&hvtargid=pla-531049239301&psc=1

Continuing to explore the book TRANSFORMATION by Robert A. Johnson, Father Bill and guest David B. discuss the character of Faust as he discovers a doorway to four-dimensional consciousness, one uniquely open to those of us in recovery. This final episode of the series deals with Part II of the play offering a solution to Faust’s crisis of consciousness.

Show Notes:

Transformation: Understanding the Three Levels of Masculine Consciousness by Robert A. Johnson https://www.amazon.com/Transformation-Understanding-Levels-Masculine-Consciousness/dp/0062505432/

Additional resource: Fire in the Belly: On Being A Man, by Sam Keen  https://rb.gy/1ljug8

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Continuing to explore the book TRANSFORMATION by Robert A. Johnson, Father Bill and his guest David B. discuss the character of Faust representing a possible pathway to four-dimensional consciousness, one uniquely open to those of us in recovery. David brings a professional background in theatre that deepens the discussion. This episode deals with Part I of the play laying out the problems posed by our shadows – facing “the unlived parts” of our lives.

Show Notes:

Transformation: Understanding the Three Levels of Masculine Consciousness by Robert A. Johnson https://www.amazon.com/Transformation-Understanding-Levels-Masculine-Consciousness/dp/0062505432/

To support Father Bill W. and Two Way Prayer with a donation, please visit: https://www.twowayprayer.org/donate-1

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Continuing to explore the book TRANSFORMATION by Robert A. Johnson, Father Bill and his guest David B. discuss the character Hamlet representing the “stuck,” or complex, or three-dimensional consciousness experienced by most moderns – including many of us in recovery. David brings a unique background in theatre and acting as well as being in recovery. You’ll find the discussion informative and perhaps more relevant than when the play was assigned to read in high school!

Show Notes:

Transformation: Understanding the Three Levels of Masculine Consciousness by Robert A. Johnson https://www.amazon.com/Transformation-Understanding-Levels-Masculine-Consciousness/dp/0062505432/

Don Quixote represents the “simple consciousness” that’s all but evaporated in the modern age marked by fear. separation and anxiety. Continuing with the book TRANSFORMATION, Fr. Bill explores Robert Johnson’s description of this classic tale with an eye toward how addicts experience “being driven from the Garden of Eden.”

Show Notes:

Transformation: Understanding the Three Levels of Masculine Consciousness by Robert A. Johnson https://www.amazon.com/Transformation-Understanding-Levels-Masculine-Consciousness/dp/0062505432/

To support Father Bill W. and Two Way Prayer with a donation, please visit: https://www.twowayprayer.org/donate-1

If this has been helpful to you, please like, subscribe, share, and keep coming back.

This series explores Robert A. Johnson’s book Transformation. Johnson moves readers from simple, to complex, to enlightened stages of consciousness using well known characters from literature to make a difficult subject easier to understand. In this episode, Fr. Bill outlines Johnson’s approach and gives an overview of consciousness and the role it plays in recovery.

Show Notes:

Transformation: Understanding the Three Levels of Masculine Consciousness by Robert A. Johnson https://www.amazon.com/Transformation-Understanding-Levels-Masculine-Consciousness/dp/0062505432/

Clip from Zorba the Greek written by Nikos Kazantzakis https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BS0w3Wkric8/

Here’s a Wikipedia link to the story: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zorba_the_Greek/

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Over the years, three ways have evolved for working the AA Program: Strong, Medium, and Weak. Like a cup of coffee or tea the strength makes all the difference and that difference, for some of us, could include whether we live or die! Fr. Bill discusses this classic article with Matt D. from All Addicts Anonymous.

Show Notes:

Find Gresham’s Law and Alcoholics Anonymous on the AAA website: https://alladdictsanonymous.org/store/

THE TEN POINTS:The Ten Points represent the spiritual inspiration and guidance for how to work the Twelve Steps as given by the first hundred AA members. These original commitments are the spiritual legacy and heritage of the first men and women whose sacrifice, wisdom, and trial-and-error experience became solidified in the “How it Works" chapter of the AA Big Book. For many addicts, lesser commitments to the Program do not offer the crucial momentum necessary to reach the level of spiritual awakening required to attain true freedom. Make no mistake about it, every person who adopts the rigor and intensity of the Ten Points will be rocketed into a new dimension of existence.

We commit ourselves to work toward recovery and spiritual awakening through sincerely and responsibly trying to do what the AA Big Book suggests by: 1. Completely giving ourselves to this simple Program; 2. Practicing rigorous honesty; 3. Being willing to go to any lengths to recover; 4. Realizing that there is no easier, softer way; 5. Being fearless and thorough in our practice of the principles; 6. Letting go of our old ideas absolutely; 7. Recognizing that half measures will not work; 8. Asking God’s protection and care with complete abandon; 9. Being willing to grow along spiritual lines; 10. Accepting the following pertinent ideas as proved by All Addicts Anonymous experience: (a) that you cannot manage your own life; (b) that probably no human power can restore you to sanity; (c) that God can and will if sought.

To contact Matt D. please write to me at [email protected] and I’ll pass your message along to him.

To support Father Bill W. and Two Way Prayer with a donation, please visit: https://www.twowayprayer.org/donate-1

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My psychologist friend Michaela from Liverpool shares her experience with Two Way Prayer and has me doing the same. Eleven percent of our podcast listeners hail from the UK. God must have big plans for his kids across the pond!

Show Notes: To reach Michaela, please drop me a line at [email protected] and I’ll gladly forward it to her.

Michaela Heaton, lives in Liverpool, England and has BA Hons degree in English & Philosophy, a postgraduate diploma in applied psychology and an MSc in Applied Psychology. She is a well known Consultant and Certified Business Psychologist supporting businesses and individuals seeking help with addiction from alcohol and drugs.

“Catching the Roses”, Michaela’s first book, is an epistolary, written in letter form to St Therese of Lisieux who wrote an autobiography in the 1890’s called “Story of a Soul” which inspired her to write her own story coinciding with the visit of St Therese’s relics to Liverpool in 2009. The book follows Michaela as a contemporary pilgrim writing daily letters to St Therese, receiving emotional and spiritual guidance and a lasting legacy of love and hope. https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B075W8BFKV/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_glt_JJRG3KVP0YR38JGN53EJ

For the last ten years Michaela has been a weekly talk show guest on BBC Radio Merseyside www.madaw.co.uk 

Fr. Bill and author Paul S. conclude their discussion of Varieties of Religious Experience. In this episode they explore how “a life of love and service” are the natural fruits of any real conversion experience. There’s also an in-depth discussion of James’ own short summary of his findings. You’ll find James’ 5-point summation truly worth studying. 

Show Notes:

Paul’s book titled “We Agnostics: William James…” is available here: https://rb.gy/rpvnlr

The original Varieties of Religious Experience is available free in pdf form. https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/621

An excellent biography of William James is by Robert D. Richardson. His section covering James’ delivery of the lectures that formed the book VRE is helpful in putting James’ work in clear context. It’s available here: https://rb.gy/khpbf5

Here are the five points from Chapter XX in VRE:

“Summing up in the broadest possible way the characteristics of the religious (or spiritual or 12-Step) life, include the following beliefs:

1. That the visible world is part of a more spiritual universe from which it draws its chief significance; (and)

2. That union or harmonious relation with that higher universe is our true end…

3. That prayer or inner communion with the spirit thereof - be that spirit ‘God’ or ‘law’ - is a process wherein work is really done and spiritual energy flows in and produces effects psychological or material within the phenomenal world.

4. A new zest which adds itself like a gift to life, and takes the form either of lyrical enchantment or of appeal to earnestness and heroism.

5. An assurance of safety and a temper of peace, and, in relation to others, a preponderance of loving affections.”

To contact Paul S. please write to me at [email protected] and I’ll pass your message along to him.

If this has been helpful to you, please like, subscribe, share, and keep coming back.

Fr. Bill and author Paul S. continue their discussion of Varieties of Religious Experience. Paul labeled his chapter on Steps 10 and 11: “Doing Business with This Higher Power. In this episode they explore some 14 practices William James addresses as aids in making and maintaining a conscious connection with the Divine.

Show Notes:

Paul’s book titled “We Agnostics: William James…” is available here: https://rb.gy/rpvnlr

The original Varieties of Religious Experience is available free in pdf form. https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/621

An excellent biography of William James is by Robert D. Richardson. His section covering James’ delivery of the lectures that formed the book VRE is helpful in putting James’ work in clear context. It’s available here: https://rb.gy/khpbf5

Paul references The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk M.D. https://rb.gy/rwvm8o

Fr. Bill references The Way of a Pilgrim (anonymous Author) A good translation of the Christian classic: https://rb.gy/zct8zz

To contact Paul S. please write to me at [email protected] and I’ll pass your message along to him.

If this has been helpful to you, please like, subscribe, and share.

Fr. Bill and author Paul S. continue their discussion of Varieties of Religious Experience. Paul labeled his chapter on Steps 10 and 11: “Doing Business with This Higher Power.” It’s rich and important material so we’ve broken it up into two parts. In this first episode we concentrate on the nature of a relationship with the Higher Power.

Show Notes:

Paul’s book titled “We Agnostics: William James…” is available here: https://rb.gy/rpvnlr

The original Varieties of Religious Experience is available free in pdf form. https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/621

An excellent biography of William James is by Robert D. Richardson. His section covering James’ delivery of the lectures that formed the book VRE is helpful in putting James’ work in clear context. It’s available here: https://rb.gy/khpbf5

To contact Paul S. please write to me at [email protected] and I’ll pass your message along to him.

If this has been helpful to you, please like, subscribe, and share.

Fr. Bill and author Paul S. continue their discussion of Varieties of Religious Experience. Pauls’ chapter on these Steps explores the nature of forgiveness and the “melting of moods” frozen by resentment and hate. Just as God makes recovery from our addictions possible, the needed strength for forgiveness also comes as a gift.

Show Notes:

Paul’s book titled “We Agnostics: William James…” is available here: https://rb.gy/rpvnlr

The original Varieties of Religious Experience is available free in pdf form. https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/621

An excellent biography of William James is by Robert D. Richardson. His section covering James’ delivery of the lectures that formed the book VRE is helpful in putting James’ work in clear context. It’s available here: https://rb.gy/khpbf5

Ted/Talk by Fr. Greg Boyle, S.J. on his reconciliation and forgiveness work with gangs in Los Angeles / truly inspiring. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipR0kWt1Fkc

Story about Bishop Desmond Tutu and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission dealing with the aftermath of apartheid in South Africa: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YY-ee1hhghQ

To contact Paul S. please write to me at [email protected] and I’ll pass your message along to him.

If this has been helpful to you, please like, subscribe, and share.

Fr. Bill and author Paul S. continue their discussion of Varieties of Religious Experience. This episode is focused on the multiple problems facing the "sick soul" especially Fear, Self-Loathing, and Chaotic Impulses. Called "the Steps that separate the men from the boys" (and the women from the girls) James says these things are in fact "removable."

Show Notes:

Paul’s book titled “We Agnostics: William James…” is available here: https://rb.gy/rpvnlr

The original Varieties of Religious Experience is available free in pdf form. https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/621

An excellent biography of William James is by Robert D. Richardson. His section covering James’ delivery of the lectures that formed the book VRE is helpful in putting James’ work in clear context. It’s available here: https://rb.gy/khpbf5

Fr. Bill and William James author Paul S. continue their discussion. Pauls’ chapter on the 4th and 5th Steps is titled: Releasing a Dam of Tears and Finding Tender Mercy. The discussion centers around the “sick soul” diving deep into its sense of “rottenness” to discover a soul that was already there and just waiting for us to set free.

Show Notes:

Paul’s book titled “We Agnostics: William James…” is available here: https://rb.gy/rpvnlr 

The original Varieties of Religious Experience is available free as a pdf: https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/621

An excellent biography of William James is by Robert D. Richardson. His section covering James’ delivery of the lectures that formed the book VRE is helpful in putting James’ work in clear context. It’s available here: https://rb.gy/khpbf5

Paul referenced Viktor Frankl’s book: Man’s Search for Meaning. Available as pdf: https://rb.gy/1byuop

Here’s the passage Fr. Bill referenced from Wordsworth’s poem, Intimations of Immortality:

Our birth is but a sleep and a forgetting:
The Soul that rises with us, our life's Star,
Hath had elsewhere its setting,
And cometh from afar:
Not in entire forgetfulness,
And not in utter nakedness,
But trailing clouds of glory do we come
From God, who is our home:
Heaven lies about us in our infancy!
Shades of the prison-house begin to close
Upon the growing Boy,
But He beholds the light, and whence it flows,
He sees it in his joy; (lines 58–70)

Fr. Bill referenced Jung’s Answer to Job: https://rb.gy/desvhq 

For a brilliant analysis of Jung’s Answer to Job: Edward Edinger’s Transformation of the God Image: https://www.amazon.com/Transformation-God-Image-Elucidation-Jungs-Answer/dp/0919123554/

Fr. Bill’s and William James author Paul S. continue the discussion. “Letting go” is the focus. Not working so hard, but actually working less as we discover the Great Reality has been there all along just waiting for us to open the door of our inner worlds. We often make the Steps so much harder than they need to be. Lighten up – and discover the light within.

Show Notes:

Paul’s book titled “We Agnostics: William James…” is available here: https://rb.gy/rpvnlr 

The original Varieties of Religious Experience is available free in pdf form. https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/621

An excellent biography of William James is by Robert D. Richardson. His section covering James’ delivery of the lectures that formed the book VRE is helpful in putting James’ work in clear context. It’s available here: https://rb.gy/khpbf5

Here’s the 1935 cartoon I mentioned. A bit embarrassed to share this but the Kid in me appreciates my acknowledging his pain! Click here.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6je1eIhbVvg

Fr. Bill’s guest is Paul S., author of a new book on William James, known as the Father of American psychology and twice referenced in the Big Book. This episode explores the underlying feeling state of most addicts as we first discover the mystical elements of drugs and alcohol only to be thrown into the dark places, they ultimately lead us. Step One comes alive in the discussion and gives listeners a deeper appreciation of how the seeds of recovery are present within the pain. The series will examine James in reference to each of the 12-Steps.

Paul’s new book Titled “We Agnostics: William James…” is available here:

https://www.amazon.com/Agnostics-Psychology-Spiritual-Addiction-Venerated/dp/B09JRD6VX2/ref=sr_1_1?crid=46V4YIM5PRWM&keywords=we+agnostics+how+william+james&qid=1639860009&s=books&sprefix=we+agnostics%2Cstripbooks%2C90&sr=1-1/

The original Varieties of Religious Experience is available free in pdf form: https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/621

An excellent biography of William James is by Robert D. Richardson. His section covering James’ delivery of the lectures that formed the book VRE is helpful in putting James’ work in clear context. It’s available here: https://www.amazon.com/William-James-Maelstrom-American-Modernism/dp/0618919899

Fr. Bill referenced a set of quotes from the Big Book related to HOPELESSNESS. If you would like a copy, please write to him at: [email protected]

If this has been helpful to you, please like, subscribe, and share.

This is the third and final episode of Fr. Bill’s 12-Step Workshop. The Steps are presented from the perspective of the Pioneer members of AA and the purpose of the series is to help Keep It Simple! This episode centers around the last three Steps: 10, 11, and 12. It sees them as the main area of focus for someone who has completed their Step work. But this is more than MAINTENANCE. It is receiving DIRECTION from our Higher Power and the Guidance we need for living our lives.

If this has been helpful to you, please like, subscribe, and share.

This is the second of Father Bill’s 12-Step Workshop. The Steps are presented from the perspective of the Pioneer members of AA and the hope of the series is to help us “Keep It Simple!” This episode focuses on how to remove the barriers existing between ourselves and God as well as between ourselves and others. Again, you'll see it's a whole lot easier than you may have thought!

Show notes:

A copy of the PowerPoint presentation and handouts that accompanied this original Zoom workshop (11.06.2021) are available by request through: [email protected]

The Harry Tiebout article: Ego Factors in Surrender courtesy of Silkworth.net can be found here:  https://silkworth.net/alcoholics-anonymous/the-ego-factors-in-surrender-in-alcoholism/

Be sure to subscribe for more recovery series and if this has been helpful for you along the way, we hope you will concider a small donation so we can continue to share this message with other recovery fellowships and their families. www.twowayprayer.org/donate-1  

This is the first of Father Bill’s three-part 12-Step Workshop. Each of the 12 Steps is presented from the perspective of the Pioneer members of AA and the hope of the series is to help us “Keep It Simple!” This episode focuses on how to establish a connection with God, with another person, and with our own True Selves as we begin recovery from addiction. You'll see it's a whole lot easier than you may have thought!

Show notes: If you would like a copy of the PowerPoint presentation that accompanied this original workshop, email us at [email protected]

Matt D. and Father Bill conclude this series with an in-depth discussion of prayer and how it can unlock our hearts and open us to a deeper relationship with God.

Show Notes:

Invitation to a Great Experimentis out of print and costly on Amazon; however, it can be purchased affordably though through All Addicts Anonymous: alladdictsanonymous.org/store/

If finances are a problem, write to [email protected] to request a free electronic edition or information about AAA meetings.

To learn more about Fr. Bill W's work, visit our website twowayprayer.org.

Books and individuals mentioned during this episode:

Gerald Heard: https://rb.gy/7arqvy

C.S. Lewis: https://rb.gy/qrptzg

The Art of Prayer: An Orthodox Anthology https://rb.gy/mxrhjs

Leonard Cohen singing Hallelujah: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrLk4vdY28Q/

Jewish Midrash: https://rb.gy/ojlpvl

Jean Pierre de Caussade, S.J.: https://rb.gy/wwdknh

The Cloud of Unknowing: https://rb.gy/57zbkx

Thomas Keating’s Open Mind Open Heart: https://rb.gy/5x24od

How to Listen to God – the original Oxford Group pamphlet: https://rb.gy/ajzldj

The Way of a Pilgrim (Excellent translation): https://rb.gy/vviisb

Father Bill and Matt D. from All Addicts Anonymous explore the questions Tom Powers raises: “Can God’s Will Be Known and Can It Be Done?” These are vital questions for addicts in recovery to understand and to answer. This episode may help point toward an answer.

Invitation to a Great Experiment is out of print and costly on Amazon; however, it can be purchased affordably through All Addicts Anonymous. If finances are a problem, please write to [email protected] to request a free electronic edition or information about meetings.

Books mentioned on this episode:

The Will of God by Leslie D. Weatherhead: https://rb.gy/bcuyng

Alec Forbes of Howglen by George MacDonald: https://rb.gy/x6tgah

Archivist Matt D. and Father Bill continue an in-depth discussion focused on the spiritual truths and practices underlying 12-Step transformation. This episode includes the Way of Reason, the Way of Faith, and the Way of Experience.

Show Notes: 

Invitation to a Great Experiment is out of print and costly on Amazon; however, it can be purchased affordably though through All Addicts Anonymous.https://alladdictsanonymous.org/store/ If finances are a problem, please write to [email protected]/to request a free electronic edition.

Bill Wilson expresses his regret for changing SPIRITUAL EXPERIENCE to AWAKENING in Step 12. This 3-minute share from AA’s Co-founder is hilarious and enlightening. https://www.aa.org/pages/en_us/archives-audio-library#audio-player/

Robert Johnson’s book TRANSFORMATION is mentioned in reference to the purgation or suffering that can help bring about change. A great read! https://www.amazon.com/Transformation-Understanding-Levels-Masculine-Consciousness/dp/0062505432/

Thomas R. Kelly was a modern-day Quaker mystic. His book A Testament of Devotion is a spiritual classic. Here’s a free copy – be sure to read the first essay on the Inner Light referenced in the podcast.  https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.90258/page/n5/mode/2up/

Joseph Campbell combined great literature with depth spirituality from many religions and world cultures. Always a great read from a wise fellow traveler. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Campbell/

Brother Lawrence’s classic The Practice of the Presence of God is a must read for the spiritual journey. Found in Dr. Bob’s library and a favorite among Oxford Group and early AA members.  https://www.amazon.com/Practice-Presence-God-Brother-Lawrence/dp/0883681056/

Fr. Bill continues his discussion of Tom Powers’ writings with Matt D. In this episode Matt describes three tools Tom said were needed by anyone setting out in search for God, "Find the Right People, Find the Right Books, and Find the Right Laboratory."

Invitation to a Great Experiment is out of print and costly on Amazon; however, it can be purchased affordably through All Addicts Anonymous: alladdictsanonymous.org/store/ or write to [email protected]/ and request a free electronic edition.

Books and authors referenced in this episode:

Gerald Heard: rb.gy/yy3r0n

Aldous Huxley: rb.gy/yy3r0n  

William James: rb.gy/f6ql5z

Varieties of Religious Experience by William James: rb.gy/jj4edq

Little Flowers of St. Francis: rb.gy/jqoegz

C.S. Lewis: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C._S._Lewis

The Way of a Pilgrim by Nina Tourmanova : rb.gy/9a2cs0

Philokalia: rb.gy/cwxiru

Robert A. Johnson: rb.gy/56rjsa

The Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Gospel_of_Sri_Ramakrishna

Ernie Kurtz: www.amazon.com/Not-God-Alcoholics-Ernest-Kurtz/dp/0894860658

Maurice Nicoll: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maurice_Nicoll

Wild Bill Cody - Return from Tomorrow: www.tentmaker.org/newinspiration/chooselove.html

In this episode Father Bill and Matt D. explore the three things necessary to begin a search for God. Expedition leader Tom P. writes, “if you're in extreme emergency … with nothing to hope for in the world, your situation is particularly favorable!” The spiritual path, like the 12 Step Program, is filled with paradoxes. Tom’s book Invitation to a Great Experiment is the source of the series. There’s a link in the show notes.

Show Notes:

Invitation to a Great Experimentis out of print and costly on Amazon. However, it can be purchased affordably though through Matt D. at All Addicts Anonymous: click here:

https://alladdictsanonymous.org/store/If finances are a problem, please write to [email protected]/for a free electronic edition.

The classic book Why Do Men Stupefy Themselves written by Leo Tolstoy is available here: https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Why_Do_Men_Stupefy_Themselves%3F/

Tom Powers helped Bill Wilson write 12 Steps and 12 Traditions, AA Comes of Age, and the Second Edition of the Big Book. Bill was his mentor, friend, and sponsor. In his book Invitation to a Great Experiment, Tom takes 12 Step spirituality to greater depths than you’re likely to find in any other recovery work as he explores three vital questions: Can God be known? Is there an experiment we can test to answer this question? And how can we know and do God’s will? Fr. Bill interviews Matt D. who knew Tom well and is in charge of his All Addicts Anonymous archives. The series will explore the book and the man in depth.

Show Notes:

Invitation to a Great Experimentis out of print and costly on Amazon. However, it can be purchased affordably though through Matt D. at All Addicts Anonymous: click here:

https://alladdictsanonymous.org/store/If finances are a problem, please write to [email protected]/for a free electronic edition.

The classic book Why Do Men Stupefy Themselves written by Leo Tolstoy is available here: https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Why_Do_Men_Stupefy_Themselves%3F/

Father Bill welcomes the author of The War of the Gods in Addiction to the podcast. In concluding this series, they explore the significance of Carl Jung’s letter to AA’s co-founder Bill Wilson. The conversation centers on the underlying, and often overlooked, psychic elements uniquely present in addiction and the 12-Step pathway that seems specifically designed to overcome them. The conversation is lively and you’re sure to learn a lot.

Show Notes:

The War of the Gods in Addiction: https://www.amazon.com/War-Gods-Addiction-David-Schoen/dp/1882670574/

Copy of the Letters Between Wilson and Jung: https://speakingofjung.com/blog/2015/11/13/the-bill-w-carl-jung-letters/Series: God and Addiction

Questions or Comments to David Schoen can be sent to [email protected] and we’ll pass them on. Thanks for listening!

 Fr. Bill continues this in-depth look at addiction through the work of Jungian therapist David Schoen in The War of the Gods in Addiction. This episode explores the 12-Step solution viewed as a Jungian pathway to recovery. While most of us are aware of How It Works, this episode might help explain Why It Works.

Show Notes:

·  The War of the Gods in Addiction: https://www.amazon.com/War-Gods-Addiction-David-Schoen/dp/1882670574/

·  Copy of the Letters Between Wilson and Jung: https://speakingofjung.com/blog/2015/11/13/the-bill-w-carl-jung-letters/Series: God and Addiction

·  Step One: What is a Psychic Change?:

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f50b318fe914e1b2aa32bfb/t/60421b660effa45fa4ac5622/1614945126278/What+Is+a+Psychic+Change++or+Spiritual+Transformation%3F.pdf/

Fr. Bill explores the Evil lying at the heart of real addiction.

Jungian therapist David Schoen maintains that all true addictions are intent on bringing death to their victims. This episode explores the very real, but hidden, depth of this Evil. An Evil that Jung dared calling “the Devil” in his letter to Bill Wilson.

Show Notes:

·  The War of the Gods in Addiction: https://www.amazon.com/War-Gods-Addiction-David-Schoen/dp/1882670574/

·  Copy of the Letters Between Wilson and Jung: https://speakingofjung.com/blog/2015/11/13/the-bill-w-carl-jung-letters/

·  Bill W. by Robert Thomsen

https://www.amazon.com/Bill-absorbing-deeply-co-founder-Alcoholics/dp/1568383436/

 Fr. Bill launches into Chapter Two of The War of the Gods in Addiction examining the Five Stages of the addiction process as presented by Jungian analyst David E. Schoen. Drinking, drugging, food or any addiction that usually starts off promising a solution to our inner psychic splits, often lead to our death sentence. This episode traces the course of their development in "the real alcoholic or addict."

Show Notes:

·  The War of the Gods in Addiction: https://www.amazon.com/War-Gods-Addiction-David-Schoen/dp/1882670574/

·  Copy of the Letters Between Wilson and Jung: https://speakingofjung.com/blog/2015/11/13/the-bill-w-carl-jung-letters/

Fr. Bill continues an in-depth exploration of how and why Jung believed that only a divine connection and our being in community with others is powerful enough to overcome real addiction. The series builds on the book The War of the Gods in Addiction by Jungian analyst David E. Schoen. This episode explores Jung’s letter to Bill Wilson. 

Show Notes:

·  The War of the Gods in Addiction: https://www.amazon.com/War-Gods-Addiction-David-Schoen/dp/1882670574/

·  Copy of the Letters Between Wilson and Jung: https://speakingofjung.com/blog/2015/11/13/the-bill-w-carl-jung-letters/

Fr. Bill begins an in-depth exploration of how and why only a divine connection may be powerful enough to overcome real addiction. The series builds on the book The War of the Gods in Addiction by Jungian analyst David E. Schoen. This episode explores the letter from Bill Wilson to C.J Jung.

Show Notes:

·  The War of the Gods in Addiction: https://www.amazon.com/War-Gods-Addiction-David-Schoen/dp/1882670574/

·  Copy of the Letters Between Wilson and Jung: https://speakingofjung.com/blog/2015/11/13/the-bill-w-carl-jung-letters/

Father Bill shares his experience in starting Two Way Prayer groups. The episode includes a small-group model that has proved successful along with reflections from several Two Way Prayer group members. Cautions are also included.

Show Notes:

·  A suggested format for conducting a Zoom or in-person meeting is on the Two Way Prayer website: here

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f50b318fe914e1b2aa32bfb/t/6037ae010ba7235be05479cc/1614261761891/starting-zoom.pdf

·  An interesting article on the origins of small groups crediting Sam Shoemaker for his pioneering work is here:

https://www.smallgroups.com/articles/2014/pioneers-of-small-group-movement.html

Father Bill shares his experiences finding and fostering successful partnerships with Two Way Prayer. While the morning prayer practice is basically an individual one, this simple set of guidelines can help you build a more effective and fruitful sharing relationship.

Show Notes:

·  Suggested Guidelines for Prayer Partnerships here: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f50b318fe914e1b2aa32bfb/t/6037b13268c4456044b098d3/1614262578580/A+Suggested+Guide+for+Two+Way+Prayer+Partners.pdf/

·  To share an experience about your prayer partnership please write: [email protected]

There is no set formula for doing a daily Quiet Time, but there are elements common to all. In this final episode, Fr. Bill shares some reflections on what the practice has meant to him over the past 28 years and reads a sample writing from his Two Way Prayer journal.

Show Notes:

Dick B.’s book Good Morning has been the primary guidebook for this series: https://www.amazon.com/Good-Morning-Quiet-Watch-Meditation/dp/1885803222

The Authors that were mentioned that specialize in First Century Christianity:

Marcus Borg: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marcus_Borg

John Dominic Crossan: https://www.amazon.com/John-Dominic-Crossan/e/B000AP7O2C%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share

Reading was from Thomas R. Kelly, A Testament of Devotion: https://www.amazon.com/Testament-Devotion-Thomas-R-Kelly/dp/0060643617

To receive an electronic copy of a format for using Two Way Prayer in meetings please write:[email protected]

Bill Wilson wanted to keep AA from being too closely associated with the Oxford Group in the mind of the public. As a result, references to Quiet Time and Listening to God were present but made intentionally vague in the Big Book. Father Bill helps sort some of this out in this episode. It may help shed some new light on Step 11.

Oxford Group members had no set formulas for their morning meditation or their prayer practices; but their focus was on finding and following the Guidance they needed and received from God. In this episode Fr. Bill reviews their approach to prayer and meditation with an eye toward using it to improve our 11th Step practice.

Notes:

To listen to a workshop, several are recorded on Recovery Tapers / Two Way Prayer Workshops: https://www.recoverytapers.com/two-way-prayer

Good Morning by Dick B.: https://www.amazon.com/Good-Morning-Quiet-Watch-Meditation/dp/1885803222

Oxford Group founder Frank Buchman committed himself to “changing the world,” one person at a time. Through watching his own experience and then experimenting with others to find what worked with them, he collected a set of spiritual principles and practices that Bill Wilson later formulated into the 12 Steps. In this episode, Fr. Bill explores some of the historical roots of what became our 11th Step.

Show Notes: 

Recovery Tapers Two Way Prayer Workshops:

·  https://www.recoverytapers.com/two-way-prayer

·  Good Morning by Dick B.

https://www.amazon.com/Good-Morning-Quiet-Watch-Meditation/dp/1885803222

·  The Secret of Guidance by F.B. Meyer (free pdf version) https://www.ccel.org/m/meyer/guidance/guidance.htm

·  For Sinners Only by A.J. Russell (free pdf version)

https://www.twolisteners.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/ForSinnersOnly.pdf

Early AA members listened each morning for God’s Voice. They experienced God guiding them through Two Way Prayer. In this episode, Fr. Bill briefly explores the history of listening to God and attempts to demystify the practice for members of today’s 12-Step fellowships.

Notes: Books: A Testament of Devotion by Thomas R. Kelly and Good Morning by Dick B.

Many in AA and other 12-Step Fellowships have difficulties with religion and with the Bible. We see ourselves as "spiritual but not religious." In this episode, Fr. Bill shares his own struggles in this area as he focuses on the importance of bringing reading into our daily Quiet Times.

Resources:

·  A good lecture by Dr. Marcus Borg on the problems and future of religion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UsXavOeLbQ

·  If you’d like an electronic or hard copy of the Sermon on the Mount, First Corinthians XIII, and The Letter of James, please write to:  [email protected] / For a free hard copy be sure to include your mailing address.

This series explores Oxford Group and AA Pioneers prayer and meditation practices that formed the bedrock of their recovery. Father Bill uses Good Morning by Dick B. as a source book, quoting and commenting on how Quiet Time and Two Way Prayer were used and how they can transform your recovery today.

Good Morning by Dick B.:  https://www.amazon.com/Good-Morning-Quiet-Watch-Meditation/dp/1885803222

Building on previous episodes in this series, Fr. Bill explores Carl Jung’s paradigm shift suggesting Christ as the archetype of the Self. Christianity holds Jesus to be both “Son of God” and “Son of Man” putting an end to dual consciousness and offering moderns a different way for understanding the Christian faith.

See pdf of Chapter Five Ego and Archetype by Edward Edinger, PhD: https://www.academia.edu/8148769/Ego_and_Archetype_Edward_Edinger

Father Bill shares his 11th Step experience with over 500 members of the Fellowship of the Spirit Zoom Workshop Group in Toronto, Canada.

Between the literalism of many religionists and the emptiness of modern life lies another way. Connecting with the symbolic life brings needed energy and excitement to the 12-Step recovery journey. Fr. Bill continues Edinger’s book Ego and Archetype with Chapter Four: “The Search for Meaning.” The episode uses a gnostic poem The Hymn of the Pearl as an example. (A pdf version of Edinger’s book Ego and Archetype is in the show notes.)

Show Notes: Ego and Archetype by Edward Edinger, PhD

https://www.academia.edu/8148769/Ego_and_Archetype_Edward_Edinger

 Fr. Bill concludes Chapter Three in Edinger’s book Ego and Archetype.

The episode focuses on staying connected to our Higher Self to find our meaning and purpose – especially when things aren’t going our way. (Again, a pdf version of Edinger’s book Ego and Archetype is in the show notes.)

Ego and Archetype by Edward Edinger, PhD: https://www.academia.edu/8148769/Ego_and_Archetype_Edward_Edinger

Fr. Bill explores Edinger’s Third Chapter titled: “Encounter with the Self.” He looks at how religion (or the program) can act as “middleman” between us and God. This can work, but at a price. The price is not growing into a more mature self. (Again, a pdf version of Edinger’s book Ego and Archetype is in the show notes.)

 Ego and Archetype by Edward Edinger, PhD: https://www.academia.edu/8148769/Ego_and_Archetype_Edward_Edinger

Hitting bottom always comes before recovery. The way UP first leads us DOWN. In this episode Fr. Bill explores some of the psychological and spiritual forces at work in discovering what many of us call “the gift of desperation.” In traditional religious language it’s called our time in the wilderness or the dark night of the soul. No pain no gain! (Again, a pdf version of Edinger’s book Ego and Archetype is in the show notes.)

 Ego and Archetype by Edward Edinger, PhD

https://www.academia.edu/8148769/Ego_and_Archetype_Edward_Edinger

Many addicts have a deep sense of “never fitting in” even before they started using addictive substances. This episode explores the inner-wounding to the vital connecting link between the ego and the Self. Father Bill explains why ACCEPTANCE proves so critical in recovery and how it helps repair the damaged link. (A pdf version of Edinger’s book Ego and Archetype is in the show notes.)

Ego and Archetype by Edward Edinger, PhD:

https://www.academia.edu/8148769/Ego_and_Archetype_Edward_Edinger

This series traces our physical and spiritual life-cycle from birth, to rebirth, to death. Building on the work of Jungian analyst Edward Edinger, Fr. Bill simplifies Edinger’s insights and applies them to 12-Step recovery. In this episode we explore the formation of the Ego and how human beings begin relating to the “Higher Power.” A pdf version of Edinger’s book Ego and Archetype is in the show notes.

Ego and Archetype by Edward Edinger, PhD: https://www.academia.edu/8148769/Ego_and_Archetype_Edward_Edinger

Drawing from Houston Smith’s classic The World’s Religions, Father Bill concludes the series focusing on six elements common to all religions: authority, ritual, speculation, tradition, God’s sovereignty, and mystery. These elements are also subject to abuse and these dangers are covered as well.

Houston Smith’ World Religions: (pdf. Version) https://www.pdfdrive.com/the-worlds-religions-our-great-wisdom-traditions-e156848105.html /

Many in recovery find Buddhist philosophy and meditation a tremendous aid to their spiritual journey. Fr. Bill’s guest is Kevin G. a gifted Buddhist author and teacher in long term recovery from addiction. Kevin is the author One Breath at a Time: Buddhism and the Twelve Steps. The Buddha’s enlightenment and Kevin’s simple teaching style have much to offer addicts in the ongoing search to overcome our suffering. See the links below to contact Kevin directly.

Kevin’s website: www.kevingriffin.net

The Buddhist Recovery Network: www.buddhistrecovery.org

Houston Smith’ World Religions: (pdf.) https://www.pdfdrive.com/the-worlds-religions-our-great-wisdom-traditions-e156848105.html

Article on Jesuit Brother Bob Maat: https://contemplativealliance.org/2017/01/12/a-saint-named-bob

Fr. Bill’s guest is Sinan K. from Istanbul, Turkey. Sinan was born and raised in the Muslim faith but could only find his recovery through AA. In Arabic, the word “Islam” means “surrender.” Realizing this connection opened the door to Step One and led him to a deeper practice of his faith where he explores the Sufi or mystical dimensions of his religion.  This is a lively discussion. If you wish to contact Sinan, please write us at [email protected] Salaam Alaikum!

Fr. Bill shares his recovery story along with the understanding of the 12 Steps he discovered studying AA history. If you’re into following Dr. Bob’s advice to “keep it simple” this episode may be just what the Doctor ordered! Enjoy!

Fr. Bill’s guest was born into the Hindu faith in India. A member of the Brahmin class, he studied his religion intently but could only find recovery through Alcoholics Anonymous 26 years ago. Now living in Dallas, Vasu still serves his community by bringing workshops and AA retreats to alcoholics in his native land.  If you wish to contact Vasu, please write: [email protected]/

Namaste!

Fr. Bill’s guest has over 40 years in AA journeying from a Catholic kid in Philadelphia to an Orthodox Jew and stand-up comedian in Israel. Balancing tragedy and comedy, he works at the Holocaust Museum in Jerusalem and takes great joy helping newcomers find both sobriety and fun in recovery. Here’s a link to his full AA story. https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=yisrael+c+aa To contact him, write me at [email protected]/ and I’ll happily forward it. Shalom!

Fr. Bill’s guest is Kim from Brisbane, Australia. Years ago, Kim first heard a “feminine inner voice” telling her it was “time to grow up and get sober!” Kim has done exactly that, but without the need for God or religion. Her spiritual journey to wholeness is still guided by that same inner voice of wisdom who now talks to her through Two Way Prayer. Kim’s a delightful guest and a really fun spirit. Enjoy!

 Fr. Bill’s guest is David A. a Roman Catholic physician with 25 years in AA recovery. David shares his faith journey as it moved from superficial to an experience of the supernatural. David is no stranger to tragedy, his mother having been killed by an intruder. Hear how David’s faith connection helped him heal from a meaningless, well defended life in addiction to a new and meaningful one in recovery. He’s a gentle soul well worth a listen!

Fr. Bill’s guest is Matt D., Director of All Addicts Anonymous. Discussion centers on Tom Powers who helped Bill Wilson write the 12&12 and other AA literature. Tom drew his faith from several religious traditions defining himself as a “religious mongrel” and damn proud of it! 

In this first episode, Fr. Bill explores the place of religion and spirituality in 12-Step recovery. He tells of his own conflicts and resolutions while setting the stage for future episodes that include interviews with fellow spiritual (and sometimes religious) travelers.

The Shoemaker Article quoted can be download here: http://westbalto.a-1associates.com/LETTERS%20ETC/WhatChurches.htm#:~:text=One%20of%20the%20greatest%20things,take%20place%20before%20their%20eyes

In this concluding episode, Fr. Bill explores what it’s like to live in what the Big Book calls, “the fourth dimension of experience.”

The professor reflects on his in-depth study of psychic change. Father Bill joins this renowned scholar in a lively discussion of spirituality and science. Miller’s book is: Quantum Change: When Epiphanies and Sudden Insights Transform Ordinary Lives. 

Miller's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Quantum-Change-Epiphanies-Insights-Transform/dp/1572305053

This episode explores the lasting effects of a spiritual experience. It builds on the work of Quantum Change author Prof. William Miller and the experiences of Bill Wilson and the first 100 in AA.

This episode examines the qualities of a spiritual experience. Building on the works of Professor William James, Fr. Bill explores Dr. William Miller’s nine traits of a “psychic change.” It’s really more fun than it sounds!

In this episode Fr. Bill explores the Seven Elements of Spiritual Transformation laid out by Jungian psychologist Robert Moore. Keeping our intended destination foremost in mind helps us arrive at where we’re needing to go.

In this episode Fr. Bill explores the inner-landscapes of a genuine “spiritual experience.” Seems hitting bottom has a brighter side after all.

Psychic change is the ultimate goal of the 12-Step recovery process. In this episode Father Bill examines the nature of these spiritual transformations while the series builds on Professor William Miller’s book “Quantum Change.”

Both AA Co-founders were members of the Oxford Group before they ever met, but neither was experiencing much “success.” Fr. Bill explores Wilson’s first six months in recovery and traces the providential events that led to his meeting with Dr. Bob in Akron, Ohio.

After Wilson came down from his mountaintop experience, he set out to unlock the mystery of why "it" had worked for him and how "it" might work for others. Fr. Bill explores Wilson's being led out from his cave and being charged with bringing "hope to the hopeless."

Wilson finally cries out for help to a God he isn’t sure is there. Then, like his grandfather, he undergoes his famous “white light,” mountaintop experience. Fr. Bill examines Wilson’s “psychic change” in light of William James’ classic description of a “conversion experience.”

Several “mini-white light” experiences preceded Wilson’s famous “hot-flash” in Towns Hospital. Largely unknown to most in recovery, Fr. Bill shares Wilson’s spiritual encounters within the broader context of Bill’s spiritual journey.

Fr. Bill explores the effects of Bill Wilson’s childhood traumas on his early life. Wilson’s autobiography provides insights into his developing alcoholism. The myth of Icarus serves as a psychological model.

Links for this episode:

Father Bill W.'s Autobiography: https://www.amazon.com/Bill-First-Years-Autobiography-Co-founder/dp/1592853641  

Ego and Archetype: https://www.academia.edu/8148769/Ego_and_Archetype_-_Edward_Edinger

Bill Wilson grew up in a dysfunctional family. His childhood traumas compounded his depressions and contributed to his alcoholism. Fr. Bill explores Wilson’s early years sharing stories from Wilson’s little known autobiography. Find the book here.