Scientific Approach
After struggling with weight and atheism, Frank H. found a Higher Power within himself, transforming his approach to recovery through Overeaters Anonymous.
Agnostic/Atheist/Secular
Higher Power Company
“Dear Mara:” the letter reads, “We are so glad you have chosen Higher Power Company as your new source of love, support, and guidance!” Written for the OA member who is taking Steps Two and Three, this might be the best corporate form letter you’ll ever receive!
No Need to Know
“For those who feel they don’t quite belong in OA, I’m here to say you don’t have to believe in a particular God or way—your desire to stop eating compulsively is enough.”
A Child of War, A Joyful Recovery From Compulsive Overeating
Sam grew up in a time of war, when food scarcity was a real issue. When the war ended, Sam’s scarcity mentality and trauma did not . . . until he heard about OA. “It changed my life forever,” he says.
My Higher Power = Life Force
Some atheist and agnostic OA members practice meditation in Step Eleven. For one agnostic, meditation has inspired a poem and a recognition of their personal Higher Power.
An Atheist’s Prayer
“An Atheist’s Prayer calls for strength in letting go of self-will, surrendering to the guidance of the program, and cultivating gratitude, growth, and serenity.”
Clear Intentions: My OA Program Success as an Agnostic
Mercy F. once believed in a Higher Power but is now agnostic. She has found success in OA even when working with those who believe in God or Higher Power as an entity. “We don’t argue about it,” she says. “We bond over working the Steps, using the Tools, and following Good Orderly Direction.”
Translation for the Atheist/Agnostic/Secular Newcomer
Teresa, an atheist OA member, describes how OA members with a theistic higher power can better help the atheist/agnostic/secular newcomer who is struggling with both compulsive eating and the God-based language of our program.
Episode 5: “Amazing Recovery: Passport to Unity” Podcast Series
OA invites DIVERSITY and promotes UNITY. In this episode, one OA member speaks about recovery from a man’s perspective and another describes finding a “non-traditional” Higher Power
Port of Call
In Port of Cell, the author reflects on her evolving spiritual journey in OA, discovering that understanding God isn’t necessary to experience His love and guidance.