Steps One… and… Two… and… I have been in OA for six and a half years. I have struggled with relapse but also have had long stretches of abstinence. I believe a Power greater than myself can and will (in time) restore me to sanity. My sponsor asked me to write down the actions I take for Step One and Step Two. My goal for … Read More
Steps First Love I’m in love! I’ve been in love for almost twenty years now. I’m in love with the First Step! While others may find comfort in prayers or religious passages, I find comfort in these words: “We admitted we were powerless over food—that our lives had become unmanageable.” My romantic history is almost as chaotic as my battles with food. I’ve … Read More
Slipping & Sliding Willingness to Work I was introduced to OA in 1987 following outpatient therapy for binge eating, overeating, and bulimia, so I was already armed with a food plan and an understanding of the First Step when I “jumpstarted” into the program. The miracle of abstinence led to a new spiritual life, and OA saved me from the insanity of my disease. I was … Read More
Steps Step 1: Always a Beginner When I came into OA, I met a longtimer I particularly admired. She was slender and energetic. She shared wisdom and love with everyone in the rooms and had an irresistible sparkle about her. When we passed around the phone list, though, she did something that confused me. In the “Comments” column, she wrote, “Always a beginner!” Why on earth, … Read More