The first step in the Alcoholics Anonymous program is considered the most important step in the AA program. In drug rehab, it is imperative that clients understand the full meaning of this important step. The first step in AA is “We admitted that we were powerless over alcohol and that our lives had become unmanageable.” There are many parts to the first step, but the first is admitting we are powerless. This is the most important concept in AA and is the spark that lights the fire of AA. The essential problem for the alcoholic is his or her lack of power over alcohol/drugs. The only way to become powerful over drugs and or alcohol is to become powerless. This seemingly paradoxical concept is the key to humility and recovery. We must stop fighting to win the fight.
Many people ask me why I have to still go to meetings after 13+ years of sobriety. I tell them that I have to go to meetings because I have to remember how bad it was. I must remember that I did not have any control over my drinking. I must remember that if I take a drink, I will, without doubt, return to my old drinking and using ways. The further I get away from the AA program the closer I get to a drink. And for me….to drink again is to die…
Author
-
Paul Alexander is the CEO, President & Founder of Northbound Treatment Network in Newport Beach, California. He believes wholeheartedly in transformational leadership, organizational health and effective, fully integrated substance use disorder and mental health treatment. With over 27 years of experience in behavioral healthcare, Paul has extensive knowledge of “in vivo” treatment modalities, clinical development, operations, strategy, marketing and financial planning. He has been widely recognized for his development of collegiate-based residential treatment programs for students in recovery and authored a research study at The University of California confirming this modality’s effectiveness.
Paul’s comprehensive professional experience, willingness to innovate, and emphasis on organizational health are vital factors in Northbound’s continued success. Paul received his Certified Addiction Treatment Specialist training at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, CA, and was awarded Outstanding Alumni Service Award in 2002. Paul holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology, Law and Society, Summa Cum Laude, from University of California, Irvine, and a Juris Doctorate degree from Loyola Law School of Los Angeles. Paul currently serves on The National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP) board. In addition, he serves on The Family Recovery Foundation board and The CarePossible board in Orange County; both organizations are committed to raising funds for family recovery and treatment for former military personnel. Paul is in recovery himself and lives in Orange County with his wife Silvana and his two young sons, Noah and Dean.
