Continuing to look at 12 Step programs - AA in particular as the forerunner of the others. 

Attempting to gain some understanding of their essential elements (the active ingredients, so to speak). 

Uncovers some radical and often-overlooked aspects of their approach, concepts that harken back to ancient wisdoms and are far more profound than many trained in other disciplines imagine.

The therapist looks at the book, Alcoholics Anonymous - the guidebook for the 12 Steps - to see how it views alcoholism and what it provides as an answer to the problem of the alcoholic. 

These are some observations of the program of AA from the point of view of a psychotherapist who has worked over the years with many people in recovery from addiction.

Emotions - properly understood - can be the most authentic guide to our Life Choices.

Some ways of dealing with reality that have been known for thousands of years and are even more relevant in today's world.

Gratitude is more than a feeling and it's evil twin, that free-floating Discontent, is the worm in the apple of our lives.

Making up one's mind is such an important skill it's amazing that nobody has ever told us all that goes into the process.