Symptoms of a spiritual awakening
“The steps lead to an awakening of a spiritual nature.
This awakening is evidenced by changes in our lives.”
Basic Text, p.48
We know how to recognize the disease of addiction. Its symptoms are indisputable.
Besides an uncontrollable appetite for drugs, those suffering exhibit self-centered,
self-seeking behavior. When our addiction was at its peak of activity, we were
obviously in a great deal of pain. We relentlessly judged ourselves and others, and
spent most of our time worrying or trying to control outcomes.
Just as the disease of addiction is evidenced by definite symptoms, so is a spiritual
awakening made manifest by certain obvious signs in a recovering addict. We may
observe a tendency to think and act spontaneously; a loss of interest in judging or
interpreting the actions of anyone else, an unmistakable ability to enjoy each
moment, and frequent attacks of smiling.
If we see someone exhibiting symptoms of a spiritual awakening, we should be
aware that such awakenings are contagious. Our best course of action is to get close
to these people. As we begin having frequent, overwhelming episodes of gratitude,
an increased receptiveness to the love extended by our fellow members, and an
uncontrollable urge to return this love, we’ll realize that we, too, have had a spiritual
awakening.
Just for today: My strongest desire is to have a spiritual awakening. I will watch for
its symptoms and rejoice when I discover them.