In this episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren continues the discussion on the 12-Step Program with guest Darran Zenger. They explore Step 3, which involves turning one's will and life over to a higher power as they understand it. The conversation delves into the challenges of surrender, the distinction between religion and spirituality, and how different belief systems can shape an individual's recovery process.
Darran shares insights on overcoming ego, embracing hope, and finding resources to navigate addiction and personal struggles. The discussion also touches on how individuals with disabilities, particularly blindness, may face unique challenges in trusting the process. Bill and Darran emphasize patience, faith, and openness in the journey of recovery.
The episode closes with a preview of next week’s topic: Step 4: Taking a Personal Inventory, a crucial yet often intimidating step in the recovery process.
Chapter Markers:
00:00 – Introduction to Blindsight and the importance of mental health
00:18 – Bill welcomes guest Darran Zenger to discuss Step 3
02:26 – What is Step 3? Turning our will over to a higher power
04:16 – Overcoming struggles with surrender
07:10 – The challenge of giving up control and ego in recovery
09:09 – Disabilities, faith, and the difficulty of trust
11:42 – Differentiating between religion and spirituality
13:35 – The role of nature and mindfulness in connecting with a higher power
15:51 – The struggle of letting things happen vs. making things happen
19:15 – Hope as the key to persistence and recovery
21:06 – Instilling hope in clients and taking action
26:21 – The patience required to form new habits in recovery
29:48 – The connection between Step 3 and Step 4
31:20 – Addressing religious trauma in the recovery process
36:03 – Final thoughts: Hope, patience, and openness
38:56 – Next week's episode preview: Step 4 – Taking a Personal Inventory
40:19 – Feedback and contact information
Contact & Feedback:
📞 Blindsight Feedback Line: (720) 712-8856
📧 Email: feedback@aftersight.org
