Episode 16 - Step 12 - Emergency Protocol

Today, Denise and Jackie explore the last step in the 12 Steps Reimagined, Step 12, an active choice of being present in response to previous steps. A lot of work has transpired in steps 1–11, so this is a time where leaning into a spiritual practice of love is part of stepping into something bigger. They begin by sharing details and reflections from their two-week family trip to Denmark and Sweden. Denise shares that grief accompanied the trip in response to an accident involving a friend and colleague, yet sees his life as inspiration to live as boldly and lovingly as you can. From there, Denise and Jackie share the entire list of the 12 Steps Reimagined and dissect the language and feeling around Step 12. Then, Jackie shares a sadness toolkit tip from her therapist in response to a breakup, and Denise illustrates Step 10 in the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Big Book about asking questions to spot check yourself. They come back to the statement that “life is for living,” with the belief that you have agency to deny certain things in order to make more time, energy, and money to do what you actually want to do. Living and loving your life unapologetically allows you to live life in the greatest capacity.  As the last step in the 12 Steps Reimagined, practicing Step 12 is sometimes inconvenient, scary, and doesn’t always feel good. Doing it anyway allows other people to be who they are with you in a really beautiful way. 12 Steps for Everyone, one step at a time. Topics Covered:A family birthday trip in Denmark and Sweden Jackie and Denise recount their three-week hiatus and reflect on how awe and grief can co-exist Denise and Jackie share how they’ve applied the 12 steps in meditation and conversationA reframe about living life how you want to The practice of being mindful of the steps and the overarching takeaway of the stepsDenise and Jackie share personal stories from their spiritual practice around trauma, gratitude, and amends A shout out to the Angel City Football Club (ACFC) team, management, and social media Resources Mentioned:Check out the active travel company, Backroads! OurHouse Grief Support CenterFind a Twelve Step group near youFollow Us:Follow Jackie: jackiefreed.la Follow Denise: @denise.freed Follow us on Instagram: @12stepsforeveryone Follow us on TikTok: @12stepsforeveryone