FaceThyFear Presents: A Guide to Meditation – Step Eleven Insights
- facethyfear
- Feb 8
- 3 min read
FaceThyFear: From Darkness to Light
Introduction: Embracing Meditation as a Way to Peace
Step Eleven from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous teaches us to “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.”
For me, finishing the Twelve Steps helped me look the world in the eye again. It allowed me to reconnect with life, find peace in myself, and see the beauty in the world around me. Meditation, especially as described in Step Eleven, became a cornerstone of that transformation. It opened the door to a deeper understanding of God, myself, and the strength to face life with grace and purpose.
How Step Eleven Guides Us in Meditation
1. Meditation as Spiritual Nourishment
The Big Book emphasizes that just as we nourish our bodies with air, light, and food, our souls need nourishment too. Meditation provides this spiritual sustenance by connecting us to God’s grace and strength.
When we neglect prayer and meditation, we deprive our minds, emotions, and spirits of this essential support. Meditation helps us find the light we need to grow, much like plants need sunlight.
2. Using Constructive Imagination
Meditation is not just about stillness—it’s about using imagination constructively. The Big Book describes it beautifully: “Let us relax and breathe deeply of the spiritual atmosphere… Let us lift our eyes to the far horizon, beyond which we shall seek all those wonders still unseen.”
Imagination becomes a tool to envision our spiritual objectives and move toward them. It’s about letting go of resistance, embracing the beauty of simplicity, and allowing ourselves to grow closer to our Higher Power.
3. Practical Steps for Meditation
The Big Book offers simple yet profound methods for beginning meditation:
1. Start with a Prayer
• For example, the prayer included in Step Eleven:
“Lord, make me a channel of thy peace…”
• Read it slowly, savoring each phrase and letting the meaning sink in.
2. Visualize Peace
• Imagine yourself on a sunlit beach, a serene mountain, or a tranquil field. Let the imagery guide you into a state of calm.
3. Focus on God’s Will
• Meditate on what God’s will might be for you today. Ask for the strength and wisdom to carry it out.
4. Let Go of Resistance
• The Big Book reminds us that “debate has no place” in meditation. Simply rest quietly with your thoughts and trust the process.
How Meditation Helped Me Face the World
When I started this journey, I struggled to sit still, let alone trust in something greater than myself. Step Eleven changed that. Prayer and meditation didn’t just connect me to God—they helped me reconnect with myself.
Through meditation, I’ve found clarity, peace, and the ability to live in the present moment. It has given me the strength to face life’s challenges without turning to old habits. I’ve learned that meditation isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up, even when my mind feels restless or noisy.
Tips for Starting Your Meditation Practice
• Keep It Simple: Don’t overthink it. Even a few minutes of silence can be transformative.
• Be Consistent: Set aside a regular time each day—morning or evening works best for many.
• Use Resources: Guided meditations, apps, and scripture can help if you feel lost.
• Be Patient: Meditation is a practice, not a performance. Progress comes with time.
Closing Thoughts
Step Eleven taught me that peace doesn’t come from escaping the world—it comes from facing it, grounded in prayer and meditation. When we open ourselves to God’s will, we unlock a strength far greater than our own.
Whether you’re just beginning your journey or looking to deepen your practice, remember this: meditation is your step into the sun. It’s a way to nourish your soul, calm your mind, and align yourself with the life you’re meant to live.
Live to Love.
Resources for Support
• The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous
• Guided meditations: Insight Timer, Calm, Headspace
• Need help? Visit www.Facethyfear.com (www.Facethyfear.com) for resources and community.
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. All Rights Reserved.
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