The Foundation of Experience
In order to work Step Ten, the experience I acquired in the nine Steps that led up to it showed me what I needed.
Step Ten is the culmination of the entire program, built upon the experience gained in the nine preceding Steps. I could not begin a daily inventory without the honesty of Step Four, the willingness of Step Seven, or the courage of Step Nine. My previous experience showed me exactly what I needed: a new way of living, based on spiritual principles.
This quote grounds my daily maintenance in the entire foundation of recovery. Step Ten is not a solitary task; it is the daily application of all the lessons I've learned about my defects, my powerlessness, and my need for a Higher Power. If my Step Ten feels difficult, I need to check which of the preceding nine Steps I am currently neglecting. The maintenance Steps require the entire toolbox.
I will reflect on a recent success I had in Step Ten (a quick apology, a moment of detachment). I will trace that success back to the specific principles of one of the previous nine Steps that made it possible (e.g., admitting powerlessness, praying for removal of fear).
