Finding Faith in Recovery: Embracing Step Two

The month of July is dedicated to Step Two of my Articles for ‘Mwangaza Wa Sunday’s Addiction Recovery Fridays Series.’ For the next three Fridays, we’ll delve into this vital step, sharing insights and experiences that emphasize functional addiction, full-blown addiction, and mental health with regard to the recovery process. Whilst using educational clips and information for my research, I’ll also be drawing from my own journey to highlight the significance of finding a higher power in recovery.

Step Two of the 12-step recovery process is: “Coming to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.”

This step involves acknowledging that recovery requires assistance beyond one’s own willpower and strength. It is about finding hope and recognizing that external help—whether through a higher power, the support of a community, or other means—can guide an individual toward sanity and healing. For many, this step emphasizes the importance of faith, spirituality, and the acceptance that they are not alone in their journey.

My Rehab Experience

During my second week in rehab, amidst the grueling detoxification process, I encountered a remarkable staff member who was also a priest. He conducted Mass every Sunday in our lunch hall, and his presence marked the first time I had prayed with others struggling with addiction. Sitting among fellow broken men and women, I shared my testimony for the first time, admitting that my life had become unmanageable due to my addictions to alcohol, drugs, and emotional eating (step one), and that I needed the help of my God/my higher power (step two).

Embracing Faith

Those early weeks at the detox facility were a time of profound change. Diagnosed with insomnia, grief, ADHD, and depression, I began to accept these challenges and sought ways to manage them. Exercise became my ally in lifting my motivation and managing my weight. My involvement in the rehab’s church activities deepened my faith and connected me with a community of fellow recovering individuals. The priest, a recovering addict himself, shared real-life experiences that resonated deeply with me.

Continued Growth

For the next 90 days at a different facility, I never missed church. I helped set up for Mass, finding solace and strength in these spiritual practices. Additionally, I started a book club based on “Journey to Freedom” by Scott Real, a comprehensive guide mixing various religious teachings to aid in recovery and mental health.

Life After Rehab

Upon leaving rehab in October 2022, I reconnected with my church in Dar Es Salaam and have been actively involved ever since. Small Christian communities provide a space for reflection and support, where I continue to share my journey and find strength in my faith.

Message to Functional Addicts

My message extends beyond those visibly struggling with addiction. Functional addicts—successful individuals who manage their responsibilities but silently battle addiction—also need awareness and support. The 12-step process, particularly Step Two, offers a framework for everyone to address their spiritual crises and find help, regardless of their beliefs.

Mwangaza Wa Sunday: Our Mission and Vision

At Mwangaza Wa Sunday, we are dedicated to creating resources and a safe space for those struggling with addiction and mental health issues. Our mission is to provide support, advocacy, and awareness through various programs and initiatives. Our vision is to build a compassionate community where individuals can find the help they need to recover and thrive.

Our Core Values

1. Faith: Believing in a higher power and finding strength in spirituality.

2. Family: Valuing the support and love of family as a foundation for recovery.

3. Service: Committing to helping others and giving back to the community.

4. Good Health and Wellness: Prioritizing physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

5. Ikigai: Living a purpose-driven life, finding joy and fulfillment in what we do.

Call to Action

Recovery is a communal effort. Share your stories, questions, and feedback with us. We are looking for interested partners to help us grow this community! Connect with us on social media at:

Instagram: @mwangaza__wa_sunday

LinkedIn: Mwangaza wa Sunday

Facebook: Mwangaza wa Sunday

Medium: Mwangaza wa Sunday

Join our WhatsApp community here: Mwangaza wa Sunday on WhatsApp

Join our mission to create a safe space for those struggling with addiction and mental health.

Recommended Resources

Books: “The Spirituality of Imperfection” by Ernest Kurtz and Katherine Ketcham, “Breathing Under Water: Spirituality and the Twelve Steps” by Richard Rohr.

TED Talks: Brené Brown’s “The Power of Vulnerability,” Johann Hari’s “Everything You Think You Know About Addiction Is Wrong.”

Podcasts: “The Recovery Show,” “The Addicted Mind.”

Conclusion

Recovery is a journey of resilience and faith. By embracing Step Two, we acknowledge our need for a higher power and find strength in community and spirituality. We must be proactive about mental health, in all spaces of our lives, to avoid the consequences of being reactive. Let’s recover together and make mental health and addiction recovery a shared journey.