The brand was permanent and he was ashamed. He became penitent, asking God to help him overcome his problem. He began helping others hoping he'd not always be remembered as a sheep thief. One day a young couple arriving in town spied an old man with ST on his forehead. Twelve Step Recovery is not just for the alcoholic.
Addictions come in all shapes and sizes.
It is caused by the attachment of desire to specific objects causing harm, diversion or separation from the in-born desire God has created in us to be drawn to Him and Him alone. In other words, addiction keeps us from the right relationship with God because all our attention and actions are to satisfy our own desires. The alcoholic places more importance on alcohol than anything else. Gambling addicts prioritize risk-taking at the expense of financial security for self and family, etc. There may be many more folk who need the 12-Steps inaugurated by AA and which are adapted to fit the addiction for any given group of individuals seeking a recovery solution to their dilemma.