num_pages: 320
description: Author Darren Littlejohn has been there and back and presents a complimentary guide for recovery to the traditional twelve-step program out of his own struggles and successes through the study of Zen and Tibetan Buddhism.The face of addiction and alcoholism is a face that many have seen before -- it may be a celebrity a colleague or even a family member. And though the 12-step program by itself can often bring initial success many addicts find themselves relapsing back into old ways and old patterns or replacing one addiction with another.Working with the traditional 12-Step philosophy the author first shares his own life path and how he came to find the spiritual solace that has greatly enhanced his life in recovery. Then he details out how his work integrating Buddhism into the traditional twelve-step programs validates both aspects of the recovery process. While being careful not to present himself as a Tibetan lama or Zen master the author shows how each step -- such as admitting there is a problem seeking help engaging in a thorough self-examination making amends for harm done and helping other drug addicts who want to recover -- fits into the Bodhisattva path. This integration makes Buddhism accessible for addicts and the 12 Steps understandable for Buddhists who may otherwise be at a loss to help those in need.The 12-Step Buddhist is designed to be a complimentary practice to the traditional 12-step journey not a replacement. While traditional twelve-step programs help addicts become sober by removing the drug of choice and providing a spiritual path they rarely delve deep into what causes people to suffer in the first place. The integration of Buddhism with the traditional process provides the wisdom and meditations that can help addicts truly find a deep spiritual liberation from all causes and conditions of suffering -- for good.
language: English
title: The 12-Step Buddhist: Enhance Recovery from Any Addiction
publisher: Atria Books/Beyond Words