Unity and the Twelve Step Program

Allen Liles writes an interesting an important piece in Unity Magazine, and reprinted on Unity.org, about the connections and commonalities between Unity principles and the Twelve Step Program that has been used for years to treat addictions.

Liles describes how many teachings in Unity that focus on a greater goodness everywhere present as God and the positive valuation of human individuals as capable of personal, spiritual change toward increasing betterment and well-being have great resonance with the Twelve Step Program's belief in "a higher power" and giving oneself over to this power as a means of dissolving one's addiction. In particular, I found intriguing the shared value in both systems of not simply knowing about the principles of well-being, but concretely and practically taking action in one's life to bring about the changes one desires. This is a great inspiration to not be complacent in one's life but, in the words of Gandhi, "be the change you want to see."

Because of these connections, it's really not surprising that I see many Unity churches and groups allowing Twelve Steps fellowships (such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Co-dependents Anonymous, etc.) to host meetings at their facilities. It warms my heart to know that Unity communities are playing an important role in helping people with life-threatening addictions to help themselves and lead productive, healthful lives.