WILLINGNESS TO GROW

Willingness to grow is the heartbeat of recovery. In the Big Book, we read that 'we must be entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character' [Page 76]. That readiness isn't passive—it's an active, daily choice to say "I'm willing to let go of fear, resentment, and self-will, and let something new grow in their place." Step 6 and 7 are really about this: we can't force change, but we can cultivate the willingness that invites it.

Growth in AA isn't about becoming perfect; it's about becoming whole. The Promises remind us that 'we will intuitively know how to handle situations which used to baffle us' [Page 84]. That kind of wisdom comes from practice, from making mistakes and getting back up. But it starts with a simple prayer: 'Take away my difficulties, that victory over them may bear witness...' [Page 76]. Willingness to grow means trusting the process, even when we can't see the outcome.

So what does this look like today? Maybe it's asking for help when you'd rather pretend you're fine. Maybe it's reading the Big Book with an open mind instead of a critical one. Willingness is a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it gets. And it's never too late to start flexing.