Step 2: Believing in a Greater Power

In this episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren is joined by Darran Zenger, a licensed clinical social worker at Cirque Lodge, a residential treatment center for substance use and addiction. Together, they discuss Step 2 of the 12-Step Program: Coming to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. Darran shares his personal recovery journey, including his struggles with addiction, his experience with Usher syndrome, and how embracing faith and community support transformed his life. The conversation highlights the importance of spirituality (distinct from religion), the dangers of isolation, and how addiction impacts not just individuals but their entire family system. They also discuss the role of humility in recovery and how learning to surrender control can lead to true healing. Bill and Darran also explore how having a higher power—whether it be God, nature, or even a support group—can help individuals overcome addiction and navigate life’s challenges. They emphasize that recovery is an ongoing process requiring daily self-awareness, accountability, and connection with others. The episode concludes with an invitation to continue the conversation in the next episode, where they will dive into Step 3: Turning our will and our lives over to the care of a higher power as we understand it. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Opening & Guest Introduction 01:22 – Darran’s Role at Cirque Lodge & Family Support in Recovery 02:10 – Step 2: A Power Greater Than Ourselves 03:09 – Darran’s Personal Journey to Recovery 06:12 – The Role of Spiritual Connection in Healing 09:14 – The Importance of Reaching Out for Support 12:46 – The Ego and the Challenge of Surrender 14:28 – Trusting the Process and Letting Go of Control 19:20 – Understanding Higher Power & Self-Will 21:16 – Living with Usher Syndrome & Navigating Blindness 27:32 – Adapting to Life’s Challenges & Overcoming Isolation 31:35 – Family Dynamics & Codependency in Addiction 36:11 – Spirituality vs. Religion in Recovery 37:42 – Resources for Recovery & How to Access the Big Book 38:44 – Closing & Contact Information Resources Mentioned The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous – Available in audio format through the Talking Book Library Everything AA App – A resource containing the Big Book, daily meditations, and recovery tools Feedback & Contact Information 📞 Hotline: (720) 712-8856 📧 Email: [email protected] Have thoughts on this episode or ideas for future topics? Reach out to us! Your feedback helps shape future episodes of Blindsight.