Step one
We admitted that we were bound by the illusion of ego-created pleasures and that our lives were full of suffering.
The first step allows a person to admit and acknowledge what controls their life. It is an opportunity for the person to become aware of the immense control that the ego has in her life and what this demanding control is causing in terms of self-generated suffering. This awareness is necessary to start the process of inner growth and recovery from the demands of the ego.
Second step
He came to believe that the universal consciousness, which permeates the cosmos and resides within our being, could restore us to our true nature and eliminate suffering.
This step allows one to access that which has all the power: the universal consciousness. This source will allow connection with the pure self and the true nature of the universe. This restores the individual to pure thought and right action to get rid of self-created suffering and karma.
Step three
We make the decision to let go of our insatiable ego and the illusory world and connect with the pure consciousness of the universe.
This step is about taking the initiative to start looking for the true self and detach from the illusion of the ego. Once this decision has been made, the meditation practice begins. This is a crucial step in our journey because it gives us hope that there is something more than the world of borders and limitations.
Step four
Contemplated and expressed in writing of our desires, fears, regrets and ego attachments without judgment.
This is a vital step, requiring meditative and analytical thinking about the nature of our worldly lives without judging the past. We begin to realize that these actions were part of our illusion of what reality was and we realize that now, through meditation and increased awareness, we do NOT have to act this way again.
step five
We allow ourselves to become fully aware of our egoic attachments and illusions in an accepting manner.
This is when we look at all past actions and current attachments from step four and recognize the true reality of the illusion. Now we are able to leave the past behind and live the present moment with full awareness.
step six
We were fully ready to let go of the delusions of the mind and surrender to the omnipresent universal source.
This step is letting go of the illusions of the past and creating a commitment to surrender and practice the principles of Eastern wisdom. It is important to declare our readiness for change and recognize it within ourselves as well as in the universe around us.
step seven
We contemplate and become aware of our shortcomings without judging or condemning ourselves, but allowing total acceptance and forgiveness of these egos created in dilemmas.
This step is crucial for one to accept that it is not their ego or mind. We can overcome our shortcomings and come to know our true self, which is the perfection of pure awareness.
step eight
He began to nurture and practice compassion and forgiveness for ourselves and for others whom we have harmed by our past actions.
This step focuses on alleviating guilt and regret for the past and beginning now to realize that those actions do not define the self. Also discussed in regards to this step would be the ability to remove karma-based suffering through right actions and right thoughts in the present moment where reality exists.
step nine
We apologize directly with compassion and sincerity to ourselves and to those we harm directly and indirectly.
This is an action step that allows us to explicitly offer our amends to ourselves and to those whom we may have harmed in the past. This step is a continuation of step eight and allows the guilt and regret to subside even more and finally release completely so that we can immerse ourselves in the present moment.
step ten
We continue to seek awareness of our true selves and practice right thinking and right action in every moment of our lives.
This step focuses on becoming aware of ourselves on a day-to-day basis and beginning to live our lives with fullness and sincerity in each moment based on the true nature of reality.
step eleven
He sought through the practice of mindfulness and meditation to improve our connection with universal consciousness.
This step is meant to be practiced daily to enhance awareness and detachment from ego desires. This step will help you maintain recovery and stay focused on the illuminating truth of the universe.
Step Twelve
Having become one with the universal source, we continue to practice these principles in every moment of our lives, acting as role models for those who seek the peace and tranquility of these steps.
Finally, this step discusses the continuation of these steps in our moment-to-moment existence and sharing this way of life with others who inhabit this world. Sharing this wisdom with others is the main goal of these 12 steps, which in turn benefits both the individual and the universe as a whole.
My hope is that through the application of these steps at least one human being can discover the main truth of the universe and escape the suffering of the demands and desires of the ego.
Copyright 2006–Richard A Singer Jr.