Position of Neutrality

Join Captain Lee as he opens the meeting with a powerful prayer, giving praise and thanks for the victories in recovery. This prayer acknowledges that all glory belongs to our Higher Power, reminding us that without divine guidance, we are nothing. Captain Lee offers thanks for the lives transformed through recovery and asks for continued strength to walk through the doors that only our Higher Pow...

Join Joe McDonald as he shares the powerful lesson of the Good Samaritan, relating it to Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe explains that the Good Samaritan, although unlikely and even forbidden to help, could not walk past his brother who was beaten by the side of the road. Instead, he stopped, tended to his wounds, and took responsibility for his care. This story reminds us that in recovery,...

Join Joe McDonald as he shares the powerful message that everyone in recovery has a calling, as outlined in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe emphasizes that if you’re in New Freedom, you are called to deliver this message to thousands of people, reminding them of their infinite value—despite what life circumstances may have taught them. He encourages us to awaken to this truth, even when the...

Join Joe McDonald as he reflects on the powerful experience of seeing the world differently through recovery, as outlined in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe asks, why do the authors say “this is an experience you must not miss” instead of “a sight”? He explains that when we begin to see things differently, we also feel them—because truth has a feel. Joe emphasizes that this feeling of truth...

Join Joe McDonald as he delves into the promises of Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous , where helping others becomes the foundation stone of recovery. Joe explains that a simple kind act every now and then is not enough—being of service may require great sacrifices, including the loss of sleep, interruptions to your life, and sharing your resources with others. It may mean countless trips to jails,...

Join Joe McDonald as he shares insights into the spiritual journey of recovery in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe explains that, much like addiction takes over when we feed it, recovery begins to take control when we put the spirit of recovery inside us. This spirit once sought to devour us, but now it guides us toward healing. He emphasizes that newcomers to recovery are relieved to find th...

Join Joe McDonald as he reflects on the promise of living in a new and wonderful world by following the dictates of a Higher Power, as outlined in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe asks participants to recall moments when their external circumstances—such as prison, homelessness, or hospitalization—didn’t immediately change, but their attitude shifted dramatically. He emphasizes that our exter...

Join Joe McDonald as he explains why prayer and meditation are essential in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe shares that when we speak to the divine within us, we receive answers through intuitive thoughts or decisions. He emphasizes that we won’t take these actions unless we know it’s real. Drawing from personal stories, Joe highlights the importance of empowering people to connect with the...

Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the progressive nature of recovery and spiritual awakening in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe explains that, just as addiction is progressive, so is recovery. He reflects on the powerful experience of watching people recover, seeing them help others, and witnessing the growth of a fellowship around you. Joe highlights the importance of not missing out on thi...

Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the importance of taking personal responsibility in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe explains how in environments like prison, choices are taken away, leading people to feel powerless. However, in recovery, we learn that we matter, and our choices are significant. Joe emphasizes that helping others is the foundation stone of recovery. He reminds us that we mu...

Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the critical role of service in Step 12 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe explains that within each of us, there is a voice that wants us to live and another that wants us to die. The voice that has led us to destruction is the reason we find ourselves in recovery. But there is also a voice of life, and we must listen to it and walk in the freedom that comes from serv...

Join Joe McDonald as he explores the importance of prayer and the proper attitude to have when approaching it, as outlined in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe emphasizes that prayer works if we have the right attitude and are willing to work at it. He asks what the proper attitude is, explaining that the book provides the answer—prayer isn’t about just avoiding behavior, but about add...

Join Chaplain Lee as he opens the session with a powerful prayer, inviting the presence of the Holy Spirit to guide the meeting. The room is filled with gratitude and a request for divine clarity and power. This session reminds us of the importance of connecting with our Higher Power and allowing spiritual strength to rise within us. The prayer sets the tone for another transformative night at New...

Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the importance of using spiritual tools in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe reflects on how early in the program, Ebby shared a set of spiritual tools with Bill, emphasizing that we must pick them up willingly and consciously. Joe explains that to move into a conscious relationship with a Higher Power, we must do so intentionally—it can’t happen by ac...

Join Joe McDonald as he shares practical wisdom on facing indecision, as outlined in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe explains that it’s common to face moments of uncertainty, whether you’re new to the program or have been walking the path for years. On days when we don’t know which course to take, Joe encourages us to simply ask God for inspiration: “God, inspire me.” This simple pra...

Join Joe McDonald as he explores the process of outgrowing fear and overcoming financial insecurity through Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe shares a powerful insight—that we don’t simply escape financial insecurity by stopping bad behaviors, but by living through challenges, taking personal responsibility, and weathering whatever comes our way. He emphasizes that while we may stop do...

Join Joe McDonald as he explores the concept of faith and trusting in spiritual direction, as outlined in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe uses the analogy of a quarterback throwing a ball to where you need to be, not where you are, to demonstrate the exercise of faith. He explains that faith is not a foreign concept; we practice it in everyday situations. Joe also highlights the impo...

Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the importance of starting each day with a plan and spiritual guidance, as outlined in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe explains that while plans can change, asking God to direct our thinking helps us face the day with less surprise and more clarity. He shares a simple prayer: “God, please direct my thinking, especially that it be divorced from selfis...

Join Joe McDonald as he reflects on the promise of not regretting the past nor wishing to shut the door on it, as outlined in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe explains that through recovery, we learn that our addiction was not a curse but a calling—our worst experiences can now be used to alleviate the suffering of others. He highlights the words “comprehend” and “know,” emphasizing t...

Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the importance of prayer and meditation in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous , focusing on seeking guidance rather than just relief. Joe explains that, during meditation, we ask for the power to navigate through circumstances rather than for circumstances to change. The true freedom comes from learning to navigate the challenges we face, rather than avoiding...

Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the importance of spiritual awareness upon awakening, as outlined in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe explains that by starting our day with conscious reflection and prayer, we can use our mental faculties with confidence, knowing they are working for us and aligned with our Higher Power. However, if we neglect this spiritual connection, we risk letti...

Join Joe McDonald as he reflects on the importance of spiritual direction and surrender in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe explains that we must constantly remind ourselves that even the most disturbing situations are meant for our benefit. Whether we are here for ourselves or to help others, overreacting serves no one. Joe emphasizes the significance of the phrase “Thy will be done”...

Join Joe McDonald as he discusses the importance of spiritual power in Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe explains that the transformation we experience in recovery is not about religious dogma or theories—it’s about finding the power within us. He emphasizes that as long as we stay in fit spiritual condition, this power continues to guide us. Joe reminds us that we must look inside our...

Join Joe McDonald as he reflects on the journey of overcoming fear through working Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe shares how, in the beginning, newcomers may feel uneasy about how outward and open people are in meetings, but as they continue participating, they gradually overcome their fears. He talks about how many of us eventually outgrow not just our fear of speaking in front of...

Join Joe McDonald as he delves into the concept of faith in action through Steps 10 and 11 of Alcoholics Anonymous . Joe explains that faith is demonstrated through acts of service, often without us even realizing we are in service to others. For those who are naturally skeptical, the continued works of faith prove its power not only to others but also to ourselves. Joe emphasizes that as we walk...