“I’ve found it helpful—and even necessary—to rewrite the prayers in ways that make them more meaningful to me,” says A.M. who says this helps with his humility and gives him greater strength and hope.
Jacki’s prayerful poem beautifully creates a space for conscious contact with your own Higher Power.
After struggling with weight and atheism, Frank H. found a Higher Power within himself, transforming his approach to recovery through Overeaters Anonymous.
“After several years of my sugar-free food plan, everyone started getting on my last nerve,” says Judith. But TWICE when she hopped into her car and set off to get a trigger food, Higher Power had a different plan.
“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.”
In this poem, Jacki asks Higher Power to be with her in moments both peaceful and painful.
“Joy comes in finding the good, even in the bad. Not only would I rather find joy, I am also assured that Higher Power would want this for me also.”
Compulsive eating and compulsive food behaviors are indicators of an individual’s suffocated spirit. However, with the encouragement, support, wisdom, and love of OA’s Fellowship, a new sense of wholeness can emerge.
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.
Can an agnostic find recovery from binge eating in the OA program when it has so many references to God? In her own words, one agnostic OA member says, “This program works. I have not binged in over twelve years. If you are like me, I encourage you to attend one of the many atheist/agnostic/secular OA meetings. Hope to see you there!”