Perfect Peace
“The Fifth Step: what a daunting Step it was for me as a newcomer,” says Anonymous. “But I can remember the feeling when I was done . . . I was relieved.”
Steps and Traditions
Staying on Point
OA member Tony illustrates why Tradition Five matters in this short share. “It helps us stay on track so when others enter the group as a whole, the message of program is not waived or lost in confusion,” he says.
Knowing about OA
Melissa, an OA member, understands “Even experts in the medical fields are not capable of knowing about everything.” Read how she was able to carry the message to professionals on three different occasions.
In the Public Information Flow
Jo shares about spending a few summer days staffing an OA booth at a local health fair. “It gave several intergroups the chance to reach out and help change the lives of strangers,” he says.
Radio-Active
When a local radio commentator voiced one of the usual criticisms about overweight people, OA member Lori felt compelled to carry the message, which was read aloud on the radio the next day.
Available to Everyone
Lisa shares a few simple ways she carries the message to the still-suffering compulsive eater and healthcare professionals.
The Big Picture Decisions
What does it mean to balance group autonomy and support for OA as a whole? “In my years in program,” says one OA member, ”I’ve seen several examples of group autonomy being liberating and energizing and also of it being taken too far.”
Empowering Discovery
“When I first came to OA thirty-three years ago, I was a bundle of resentments, says Carrie. Today? “I can honestly say that I no longer have resentments . . . I marvel every day in this program how the Steps really work.”
Step Nine: “The Importance of Working All Twelve Steps” Podcast Series
Tina, a recovering compulsive overeater, and Gloria, a compulsive overeater and food addict, host this workshop on Step Nine: “Make direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.” They give specific examples to show what making amends can look like in different situations.
Step Seven: “The Importance of Working All Twelve Steps” Podcast Series
Gerri, an abstinent food addict and compulsive overeater, and Karen, abstinent compulsive overeater and food addict, host this workshop on Step Seven: “Humbly asked him to remove our shortcomings.”