The Courage to Transform: A 12-Step Journey to Creative Recovery
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Chapter 1: The Beginning of My Artistic Recovery
Hello! I'm Jules, an artist on a path of recovery. The initial step into any anonymous group often serves as a catalyst for spiritual awakening. Many individuals share that the first meeting resonates deeply within them, leaving a lasting impact regardless of whether they continue attending.
The Twelve Steps were first introduced in 1939 in the book titled "Alcoholics Anonymous: The Story of How More than One Hundred Men Have Recovered from Alcoholism," commonly known as the "Big Book." Authored by Bill W., a co-founder of A.A., this program has grown to encompass over two million members globally. Alongside A.A., various other anonymous programs have emerged over the years. Notably, Lois, Bill W.'s wife, founded Al-Anon to support the families of alcoholics.
While the core steps, traditions, and principles have largely remained unchanged since their inception, some critique their relevance in modern times. Nonetheless, the foundational purpose remains the same: to foster peer support and instill hope. This connection embodies the spiritual essence of the program, alleviating feelings of isolation among those struggling with addiction, alcoholism, or codependency. Sharing personal stories cultivates understanding and support within the community.
My Journey Through Recovery
My recovery journey has primarily unfolded within Al-Anon, alongside ACA (Adult Children of Alcoholics) and CoDA (CoDependents Anonymous). For more than half my life, I have engaged with the twelve-step approach to unearth the spirit overshadowed by the effects of others' addictions and my own enabling behaviors. It has been quite the adventure.
One pivotal moment occurred during my first 4th step inventory when I experienced a significant synchronicity with the universe. At that time, I was also delving into "You Can Heal Your Life" by Louise Hay. One exercise encouraged me to visualize moments of happiness from my childhood. However, I struggled to connect with those memories.
The following day, seeking distraction from the emotional weight of my inventory, I decided to clean out my closet. Upon opening it, I discovered a photograph of myself at five years old, beaming on a grassy knoll. The picture's sudden appearance felt like an answer to my earlier exercise.
From that moment, Louise Hay's teachings—focused on affirmations, mental clarity, and healing through thought transformation—became integral to my life. Even my recent physical issues, such as hip and knee pain, align with her insights. For instance, hip problems often relate to fear surrounding major decisions, while knee issues can stem from pride and reluctance to yield.
The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Journey to Enhanced Creativity
A crucial aspect of my recovery involves embracing "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron. This program outlines twelve steps over several weeks, complemented by two key practices: Morning Pages and Artist Dates.
Morning Pages, part of my daily coffee ritual for over two decades, consist of three handwritten pages filled with free-flowing thoughts. This exercise encourages me to move beyond conventional writing constraints, transforming it into a form of meditation.
Artist Dates involve dedicating time each week to engaging in enjoyable and relaxing activities solely for myself, sparking creativity and joy. Initially challenging, this practice has become something I eagerly anticipate.
As I examined the twelve-week structure and its parallels to my experiences as an artist and a woman, I recognized the importance of these practices. The first step of many anonymous programs revolves around acknowledging powerlessness, a sentiment many women encounter throughout their lives across various aspects, including work, family dynamics, and relationships.
In contrast, the first step of "The Artist's Way" focuses on reclaiming a sense of safety. The difference between feeling powerless and feeling secure is empowering, allowing one to explore new opportunities and move forward. This practice is crucial for women everywhere.
Imagine the collective impact if we empowered ourselves and other women to reclaim our identities, strength, and faith. By doing so, we could transcend feelings of inadequacy and powerlessness, stepping into our potential and crafting the lives we envision, all while nurturing our feminine energy.
"We are conditioned to doubt ourselves, scrutinize our abilities, and prioritize self-expression. Consequently, we often write too cautiously, striving for perfection instead of authenticity. Writing flows more freely when we allow ourselves to relax and simply enjoy the process." — Julia Cameron
This principle applies universally; life improves when we embrace who we truly are rather than trying to meet everyone else's expectations. Which step will you take today to reclaim your sense of self?
Jules — Balancing multiple passions as Miz Mindful — artist, author, writer, Mindset Coach, solopreneur, Canva Designer, and Certified Moonologer. You can simply call me Jules!
Owner of Mindful Expressions, Etsy - Coffee, Tea & Hippee, and Miz Mindful Designs.