Belonging – A Vision for You – 12-STEP PHILOSOPHY

By Steve K.

A sense of social connection and belonging is an evolved human need. It’s vital to our health and well-being and promotes a sense of self-worth and acceptance. Social isolation and a sense of disconnection is a predictor of poor mental health and is often characteristic of the illness of addiction.

“Belonging is, of course, that feeling of connectedness to a group or community. It’s the sense that you’re part of something greater than yourself. You feel attached, close, and accepted by your group of people. But belonging is more than just being part of a group. Belonging is also critically tied to social identity—a set of shared beliefs or ideals. To truly feel a sense of belonging, you must feel unity and a common sense of character with and among members of your group.” (1)

“Belonging is a web of relationships and a sense of community in which you feel connected with activity, tradition, and the group itself. Being surrounded by other human beings doesn’t guarantee a sense of belonging. Belonging actually has to do with identification as a member of a group and the quality of interactions which come from that. It’s the interactions over time which are supportive of us as full, authentic human beings. All of these are important to a sense of fulfilment [for the individual], and to the success of the group as a whole.” (2)

The mutual support organisation Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) effectively cultivates a sense of belonging in its members. Research suggests that the social connection and support network that AA promotes is a key mechanism of change for those who actively participate in the ‘Fellowship’. Members come together in a shared identity and common purpose (to help each other recover from alcoholism) and through the practice of shared values and principles (The 12 Steps and 12 Traditions).

Service for the good of group and to those within it is an important aspect of 12 Step recovery and fundamental to a sense of belonging to the AA community (Fellowship). Mutual support helps each AA member to feel seen, heard, accepted, and cared for which are essential human needs. Each individual is equally responsible for contributing to a shared group vision of hope and recovery. This shared vision is portrayed in AA’s main text in the chapter ‘A Vision for You’.

A Vision for You..

Chapter Eleven in the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Big Book, “A Vision for You” (3) has become a significant source of inspiration for AA members seeking recovery from alcohol addiction. This chapter offers a transformative vision of hope and support for those struggling with addiction, emphasizing the importance of a clear, sober future.

The chapter describes a journey from a place of hopelessness, despair, loneliness, and a sense of deep isolation that addiction ultimately takes us to… to a place of hope, belonging, and transformation through ‘fellowship’.

What is Fellowship?

Well, I can describe what it’s been like for me as a member of the Alcoholics Anonymous community.

Firstly, it’s been a place where I feel completely at home and where I can be my authentic self. It’s a place where I’ve learned to feel connected to others and something greater than myself.. which is a shared purpose, mutual support, and a sense of spirituality and reverence for life.

I’ve developed a sense of belonging, of shared intimacy and friendship, gratitude rather than self-pity, some self-worth, a sense of usefulness, and a love of community.

As a member of AA, I’ve been given the tools and support to navigate life in a much healthier and constructive way than when I was drinking. I’ve learned to cherish my sobriety and to be of help and service to others.

Fellowship has enabled me to grow and mature into someone more willing to give to others than to take.. into someone who possesses eldership and can contribute to community in a positive and helpful way.