Description:
In "The 12-Step Buddhist," author Darren Littlejohn provides a comprehensive and practical guide that seamlessly merges the wisdom of Buddhist philosophy with the foundational principles of the 12-Step program. The book's central premise is that combining these two powerful frameworks can significantly enhance the recovery journey. Littlejohn, drawing from his own experience in recovery, argues that while the 12 Steps provide a clear, actionable path, Buddhist teachings offer a deeper psychological and spiritual understanding of the mind and emotions.
The book reinterprets each of the 12 Steps through a Buddhist lens, providing a fresh perspective on concepts like powerlessness, a Higher Power, and making amends. For example, the concept of a "Higher Power" is explored through the Buddhist principle of interconnectedness and the universal force of compassion. The book is filled with personal anecdotes, meditations, and exercises designed to help readers cultivate mindfulness, practice compassion, and let go of the ego and attachments that often fuel addiction. "The 12-Step Buddhist" is a unique and invaluable resource for anyone in recovery—whether they are new to the 12 Steps or a longtime practitioner—who wishes to explore a more mindful, compassionate, and deeply spiritual path to lasting sobriety.
Study Guide for Recovery
This study guide is designed to help you explore the concepts in "The 12-Step Buddhist" and apply them to your own journey of recovery.
Key Themes & Concepts
- The Synthesis of Two Paths: The book's core idea is that the practical, step-by-step nature of the 12-Step program is greatly enhanced by the philosophical and meditative insights of Buddhism.
- Mindfulness in Each Step: The book teaches how to bring a mindful, non-judgmental awareness to each of the 12 Steps, from admitting powerlessness to carrying the message to others.
- The Buddhist "Higher Power": The book reinterprets the traditional concept of a Higher Power through the lens of Buddhism, focusing on universal forces like compassion, interconnectedness, and the Buddha nature within all beings.
- Letting Go of Ego: The Buddhist principle of non-attachment is a powerful tool for working the 12 Steps, particularly in letting go of the ego and the attachments that lead to suffering.
Discussion Questions
- If you are familiar with the 12 Steps, which of the steps do you think could be most deepened or changed by a Buddhist perspective? Why?
- The book offers an alternative view of a Higher Power. How does seeing the concept through a lens of universal compassion or interconnectedness affect your personal understanding of Step 2?
- Think about the practice of mindfulness. What is one of the 12 Steps you can begin to approach more mindfully, and how will you do it?
- The book suggests that practicing compassion can enhance the process of making amends (Step 9). How can compassion for yourself and for those you have harmed change your approach to making amends?
- After reading about the book's synthesis of these two paths, what is one new principle or practice you can begin to incorporate into your recovery journey?
Additional Resources
- Interview with Darren Littlejohn on "The 12-Step Buddhist":
- Listen to an interview with the author where he discusses his personal journey and the inspiration behind the book. (Search "Darren Littlejohn 12-Step Buddhist interview" on a podcast or YouTube.)
- Resource: The Refuge Recovery Program:
- Explore this Buddhist-inspired alternative to the 12-Step program to see another way Buddhist principles are applied to recovery. https://www.refugerecovery.org/
- Article: "The Intersection of the 12 Steps and Buddhism"
- This article from a recovery-focused publication provides a great overview of the parallels between the two traditions and why they work so well together. (Search "12 Steps and Buddhism".)
- Website: The Darren Littlejohn Official Site:
- Visit the author's website for more on his books, teachings, and resources. https://www.darrenlittlejohn.com/
