Step 2 - Love, Hope, and Trust w/ Harvey E.

In this episode, host Justin B. and guest Harvey E. discuss the transformative power of Step Two in SAL 12-Step and in general 12 Step programs. Harvey, a 69-year-old Orthodox Jewish dentist and a recovering sexaholic, shares his journey of over 35 years struggling with same-sex attraction while being married, and shares his experience, strength, and hope of life in over 10 years of sobriety. They delve into the importance of recognizing a Higher Power's ability to restore sanity, focusing on the critical words 'that' and 'sanity' in Step Two's language. Harvey emphasizes how defining and understanding these terms was crucial in his recovery.  Harvey discusses his personal experience with therapy to address the trauma from his upbringing and the role this played in his recovery. By redefining their understanding of God and embracing love, hope, and trust, they illustrate how recovery can lead to a deeply fulfilling life. Harvey's insights into the importance of self-love, the elimination of the ego, and fostering a personal relationship with a loving, omnipresent God are explored as foundational elements for successful recovery.

00:00 Welcome to the Pathway to Recovery Podcast

00:30 Introducing Harvey E: A Journey of Recovery and Faith

01:41 Diving Deep into Step Two: Belief and Restoration

04:16 Exploring the Nuances of 'Sanity' and 'Insanity' in Recovery

10:21 The Impact of Addiction on Self and Relationships

21:08 Reimagining God in the Recovery Process

23:52 Navigating Modern Challenges and Finding Solace in Faith

25:03 Reimagining God: From Punishment to Support

29:25 Exploring the Second Step Inventory and Personal Growth

35:16 The Impact of Trauma and the Role of Therapy in Recovery

42:44 Embracing the Mystery of God and the Journey of Faith

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Chapters

• 0:00 Step 2 - Love, Hope, and Trust with Harvey E
• 0:57 Meet Harvey E.: A Journey of Recovery
• 2:14 Understanding Step Two: Came to Believe
• 2:54 The Importance of Words in Step Two
• 4:54 Defining Sanity and Insanity in Recovery
• 7:54 Addressing the Inner Critic and Perfectionism
• 11:31 Personal Relationship with God in Recovery
• 18:06 Intentional Prayer and Changing Perceptions of God
• 22:10 Creating a Personal God Relationship
• 24:57 Childhood Experiences and Emotional Neglect
• 26:11 Scriptural Reconciliation and Parental Consequences
• 29:55 Step Two Inventory: Mentors and Models
• 35:31 Therapy and Recovery: Personal Stories
• 40:05 The Core of Step Two: Love, Hope, and Trust
• 44:03 The Mystery of God and Spiritual Surrender
• 47:26 Final Thoughts and Encouragement