[Avodah] 12 Step Programs

[Harry Maryles]

--- Dov Kay <dov_kay at hotmail.co.uk> wrote:

I am exceedingly leery of the 12 steps, although I appreciate
> that 
> Rabbi Dr Twerski has no doubt helped many using them.


I do not understand all this handwringing about the 12 step program.
Why are we darshaning certain steps? This program is not meant as a
primer on Torah Hashkafa. It is meant as a means to overcome an
addiction. 

As such the twelve steps make emminent sense. Trying to say that this
or that step is not in concert with Torah Hashkafa is way besides the
point and counterproductive. Besides these steps are not counter to
Torah Hashkafa if understood properly. 

For example, the first step: "We admitted we were powerless over our
addiction - that our lives had become unmanageable" ...does not mean
we do not believe in Bechira Chafshis. Of course we do. It is simply
an acknowledgement that we have become so addicted to a beahvior
pattern that it has overcome our natural ability to control it. It is
a matter of admitting the diminution of will power on this particualr
act. Of course we know in theory that we can at a moment's notice
change the behavior... that we have Bechira... but our psychological
state is very weak and therefore  makes the pratical application of
Bechira Chafshis seem impossible.

I applaud Rabbi Twerski's efforts and successful use of the twelve
step program. I don't think it is wise to do an Halachic or Hashkafic
analysis of it. For those who use it successfully, such discussions
can only be damaging.

HM


Want Emes and Emunah in your life? 

Try this: http://haemtza.blogspot.com/

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