"There is a principle which is a bar against all information, which is proof against all arguments and which cannot fail to keep a man in everlasting ignorance -- that principle is contempt prior to investigation."
--Herbert Spencer
Dear Markan and all,
Bottom line is... if you're happy, free of addictions, at your ideal weight and off of medication... then whatever you're doing is great for you.
Regardless of what anybody else has to say about the twelve steps... I have yet to hear of any other single method that has the same success rate. Sure, you can come with an anecdote or two about somebody who just got tired of smoking one day and quit... or just got too lazy to go to the liquor store and buy any more booze... or whatever... but can you say that you know of millions of people who have recovered from devastating addictions and remained free for years based on any other specific model?
I believe the original poster of this message was looking for something that could actually work for them... not an analysis of theology.
So, all I can offer is what I know has actually worked for me... and millions of other people.
No matter what method you try... I wish you well. I have no personal stake in trying to convince you that what worked for me and millions of others is guaranteed to work for you.
If others on this board can say that they have experienced success in overcoming destructive addictions... and they are happy in their lives... free of medication.. at their ideal weight, prosperous, etc... more power to them.
Meanwhile, realize that each of us must find our own path... our own truth... what may seem to be the reality of one person does not necessarily apply to everyone. So I hope you find whatever works for you.
Best wishes,
Robert
P.S. You may also consider chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo and see what happens....
