#QUITLIT: Recovery – The Sacred Art: The Twelve Steps as Spiritual Practice by Rami Shapiro

Author

Ashley Sunderland
June 25, 2024

In this illuminating exploration of spiritual and personal growth, author Rami Shapiro guides readers on a path toward greater self-awareness and connection, weaving together themes of addiction, spirituality, and the quest for a more meaningful life. The Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous undergo a delicate reinterpretation, offering insights applicable to a broad spectrum of readers. The steps transcend their original context through a thoughtful lens, speaking directly to the universal struggles and aspirations inherent in the human experience. Whether facing substance use disorder or the more subtle addictions that touch us all, this transformative perspective offers hope and inspiration for all seekers of a more fulfilling and God-centered existence.

“Twelve Step recovery is much more than a way to escape the clutches of addictive behaviors. Twelve Step recovery is about freeing yourself from playing God, and since almost everyone is addicted to this game, Twelve Step recovery is something from which everyone can benefit.”

Rami Shapiro, from the Introduction

Shapiro delves into the core teachings and practices of each of the 12 steps, concurrently exploring the nuanced interplay between these steps and the spiritual tenets found across various global faith traditions. Drawing on the wisdom and practices of Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, and Islam, he offers a comprehensive examination of each Step, coupling them with corresponding spiritual practices. Shapiro’s personal journey as a storyteller, poet, and spiritual teacher, as well as his half-century battle with compulsive overeating, provide a deeply relatable foundation for his exploration.

At its heart, Shapiro’s work challenges the pervasive illusion of control that plagues human existence. He posits addiction as a symptom of a deeper spiritual ailment shared by all. With eloquence and wisdom, he unpacks how spiritual principles such as justice, compassion, and humility are antidotes to this illusion, paving the way for recovery, awakening, and growth.

From powerlessness and faith to forgiveness and hope, he skillfully weaves together personal anecdotes and real-life stories of struggle and triumph, enriching the reader’s understanding and engagement with the Twelve Steps. Whether grappling with addiction firsthand or supporting a loved one in their struggle, this book promises to be a beacon of hope and guidance, bridging the profound insights of spirituality with the pragmatic wisdom of the Twelve Steps.

About the Author

Rabbi Rami Shapiro, a distinguished figure in the realm of spiritual teaching across diverse faith traditions, boasts a rich repertoire as a poet, essayist, and award-winning storyteller of over three dozen books. Additionally, he’s a Contributing Editor at Spirituality and Health magazine, writing the column titled “Roadside Musings” and hosting the podcast “Explore Spirituality with Rabbi Rami.”

RESOURCES:

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