This week, we began with chapter one, "Step Six," covering pages 1-10. The discussion was enlightening, centering on step six, which emphasizes readiness to have God remove all character defects and focuses on surrendering our will and requesting our higher power to remove these shortcomings. Collectively, we shared our journeys toward complete readiness—transitioning into total willingness—and the challenges encountered therein. Step six challenges us to stop our struggling and accept our desire for a different way of life.
This step is about learning to trust again, to surrender, and to move beyond self-will. We start to understand our defects and recognize their past benefits. We also discern how they no longer serve us as we shift into a new way of life. This new lifestyle entails a fresh way of being, seeking a healthy balance and awareness derived from 'the human experience.' We evolve.
“Finding balance incorporates the awareness gained in Steps Four and Five with the action (the behavior changes and prayer) gained in Steps Six and Seven. Like the pendulum, we swing from one extreme behavior to another, yet those points of extreme slowly become closer together. We change.”
Next week, we'll resume from page 10, starting with "Let's take a look at Charlie's story." Remember, you're always welcome to join us, even if you miss a week, as this is an open discussion book study. I'm excited to continue this journey with all of you. Have a wonderful week!