12 step question-

I have never been to a meeting, but am going to seriously start looking for one.  But my general question is how long does one spend on each step?  Obvioulsy some will take longer than others, but for example, Im pretty sure I can go on to #2!  I totally ADMIT I am powerless.  THANKS in advance!  Lori

Congratulations on wanting to go to a meeting..   I would recommend finding a meeting that you like.. listen.. and find a female sponsor that you believe will work for YOU..  and then she will help you with the STEPS.  There is no time frame on any of them.. it's whatever it takes for YOU to work thru them.  *I believe* each is different.. I believe the old school thought to get thru all of them quickly..  but you and she will decide together what is best for YOU. hope to hear from you again..

Hi - I was wondering, what does it mean to "work" the steps. Does that mean living by them, study of them.?.....I would like to have someone experience with AA to explain that to me. A lot of AA is not really clear to me, though I know it is suppose to be a simple program. Any input is appreciated.

sadly I have not *worked* my 4th step.. so not sure if I'm the one to answer this..  this is what I *THINK* I know.. it's a matter of  studying.. applying.. and *living* the steps.. actively working the steps into your everyday life..  once you get thru the steps in order.. you should always reflect back and rework them as YOU see fit.. i hope this helps.. and I'm sure there are others here that are more *quailified* to answer and will step up..

Hi Lori, I ditto what Rhonda said!  Try looking at www.aa.org for a meeting in your area. I found one near me that's women only, non-smoking and found it to be VERY comfy!  Good luck with the search!! Marie

 I have never seen in writing where it says how long it should take to work the steps. Some treatment centers will have people go through them in 28 days, I personally don't think that is the correct way. However it depends on your personal feelings. If you have read the text of the program and you (and your sponsor) feel you have completed the step then move on. I was sober around 2 years before I done a 4th step but after the relief it gave me I wish I would have done it earlier.  I really hope you can find a group that you are comfortable in that will help direct you to a new way of life that gets more wonderful every day as I have.

Working the steps is as individual as each of us.  The best recommendation is to find a meeting, listen to people and find a sponsor.  A sponsor can guide you through the steps at a pace that she sees is best for you.   In the beginning of AA, the founders worked the steps rather quickly.  I have learned, that for me, I work them, and then recycle through them regularly.  In all of my years, I have been through them multiple times. Good luck and God bless. Hugs, Trish