“Here are the steps we take which are suggested for recovery.”

– How It Works, Life with Hope, third edition, page 193

There are very subtle aspects of Marijuana Anonymous’ literature which I appreciate so much. Saying that these are the Steps we “take” rather than “took” is a seemingly small change from the way other fellowships have been written, but the consequences on my recovery were huge. In MA, I never felt like I had to trod gingerly in some giant’s too-huge-to-fill footsteps in the snow, always worrying if I would thoroughly follow the path.

Marijuana Anonymous’ phrasing makes me feel like I can take these Steps over and over again like a circle, and I needed that ease and comfort in order to take them the first time around. I have found that MA’s approach to the Steps is warm, inviting, and exciting. Now, I’m on my third time through the Steps, and I learn so much more every time!

Final thought: Today, I look forward to discovering some new aspects of the Steps, trying my best to always keep a beginner’s mind!