Overcoming an addiction is no easy feat! - the 12 Steps is truly the most complete treatment ever
if it's accomplished at the core, the 12th Step, when there is somehow a miraculous intercesson or blessing by the Higher Power, i.e., Transcendence. Most, however, attain maintenance, the final stage in the stages of change for addictions on the rational level, if they persevere but are always prone to relapse, a fall from grace, esp. if they don't continue w/ supportive, recovery groups , AA/CA/NA, preferably w/ a sponsor, for instance, to maintain their sobriety.
Carl Jung, renowned psychiatrist, used to tell alcoholics in exasperation that he coudn't help them and to go have a religious experience. This, of course, was before the advent of AA. Today, fortunately, so much more can be accomplished and recovery is always possible along w/ hope & healing at the core...
Step 2 (for Addicts and Alcoholics in Recovery): I came to understand that my peronal beliefs about my Higher Power were unique and personal, which was the way it was meant to be. My Higher Power is the God of my understanding. This isn't a religious program; it is a spiritual program set up in a way that everyone with his or her diverse beliefs can utilize. My Higher Power only wants the best for me. Now through the active process of Step 2, I was competent to release the binding grips of fear and insecurity that hindered my forward progress.
Your belief in a Higher Power can be private, and it should be. Our members (A.A.) don't have to choose among our religion, or our search for recovery because we can have either. Always know that the Fellowship is a spiritual program that uses universal spiritual principles and practices for the foundation of our recovery. It has been proven, and it unquestionably works, I know from personal experience. If it wasn't for the 12 Step program, I would probably be dead, and for that I am everlastingly indebted.
When I completed working Step 1, I was in a state of total powerlessness. I couldn't surmount this disease (addiction) under my own power. I urgently needed a Higher Power to show me the way. After surrendering my will, I had to become willing to permit God to work His miracles in my life. I had undergone a 100% change in all aspects of my life. No longer did I have to rely on my own power to overcome the obstacles that recovery handed me. I began to "Let Go and Let God" take charge of my life. As I noticed and observed all of the miracles of recovery in others and in myself, my faith matured, my hope increased, and the knowledge essential to stay clean and serene was revealed.
In Step 2, we come to accept as true that God can convert us into spiritual beings, devoid of all apprehension, misery, and failure. Increasing spiritual expansion leads to enhanced awareness and clarification in our journey. The more we seek righteousness and clearness of mind, the greater our personal improvement. The routes to victory are countless with the help of our Higher Power showing us the way.
(Complete 12 Steps by Terry: Step 2 of 12 Steps at Recovey Life)