Posted by SLS on November 10, 2005, at 9:24:17
In reply to Re: powerlessness » mama141, posted by AuntieMel on November 9, 2005, at 9:26:33
Hi.
> I truly do believe that an addict needs to face that they are powerless - and that they need help. Or at least that it increases the odds of success.
I agree. For some people, the resolution of their addictive behavior only becomes possible once they assume a posture of powerlessness over it. This is not necessary for all addicts, but for many, this admission of powerlessness is the most powerful choice they can make to defeat the addiction. Likewise, the disease model of addiction enhances some people's chances of regaining control over something that they are otherwise powerless to manage on their own. It works. 12-step programs work. Non 12-step also programs work. As diverse as is human personality and the composition of each addiction, so, too, is the diversity of treatments necessary to care for so many unique individuals.
For some, admitting powerlessness over addiction might begin by admitting to the inability to exercise control over it in the moment. Momentary powerlessness does not necessarily indicate perpetual impotency. However, as powerless moments accumulate despite the desire to break the addiction, there begins to develop a trend. The trend is simply that the addict has not yet found a way to exercise control over the addiction independently. Some people define themselves by their independence and self-reliance. This often seems juxtaposed to a recognition of powerlessness. However, we are not omnipotent. It is the refusal to admit this that often gets in the way of change. Indeed, it is through the admission of one's history of perpetual failure that momentary powerlessness can be transformed into perpetual empowerment and the possibility of success. It is a powerful individual whom uses his independence to ask for help.
It took you only two sentences to say what I needed two paragraphs to express. That leaves you being the brilliant one.
:-)
- Scott
poster:SLS
thread:575263
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/subs/20051106/msgs/577398.html