Applying Step 11 to Your Everyday Life

In the 12-Step tradition, it is Step 11 that invites us to pray and meditate. “We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.”

My friends sometimes question the completeness of the eleventh step.

“My grandmother has cancer! Does Step 11 prevent me from praying for her?”

Imagine my speech bubble of sarcasm rising up to reply, “Really? You think there is someone on this planet or beyond that is asking you to pray LESS?” If I am in a good space, I do not say this. Here’s what I hope a more mature me might say:

The Step 11 is quite specific and is part of the 12-Step process; it is not intended to limit our prayers. It suggests (for the purpose of one’s recovery journey) that we keep two objectives in mind.

1. One goal is to improve our conscious contact with God (as we understand him).

2. We pray ONLY for the knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.

Today, try that. No pleas or requests or petitions or instructions to God. Just this simple prayer:

God, here I am. I am ready to listen.

Amen.