Stopping “The Great Persuader” from Distorting the Truth Within – Step 2

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‘IT’S AN INSIDE JOB’ – “Denial of the truth leads to destruction. Only an honest admission to ourselves of the reality of our condition can save us from our destructive eating.” (Overeaters Anon., 12 & 12, p. 6)

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What “truths” have you been persuaded to accept, lately?

What helps you tell the truth to yourself, even when it’s hard, instead of letting fear or excuses take over?

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The Unquestionable Truth – Limp Bizkit (5:08)

Om Meditation – “the Primordial Essential Sound” of the Truth (6:30)

An Analysis of: Stopping “The Great Persuader” from Distorting the Truth Within

Today’s SFZ recognizes that truth must begin within. As Overeaters Anonymous teaches, denial destroys. Honesty about our condition saves us from ruin. Carl Jung argued that “neurosis is always a substitute for legitimate suffering.” Similarly, denial substitutes discomfort for painful truth. Jung would suggest that true healing demands confronting, not escaping, inner realities.

“The Great Persuader,” as described in The Big Book, uses destruction to push openness. Alcohol, or addiction itself, breaks resistance when other methods fail. William James, in The Varieties of Religious Experience, emphasized that spiritual awakenings often follow despair. The addict’s collapse, then, becomes fertile ground for transformation.

Yet, real change cannot be forced. Marilyn Ferguson highlights that change gates open only from within. This aligns with Viktor Frankl’s view that freedom lies in choosing one’s attitude, even under dire conditions. No external force, not even disaster, can guarantee personal change. Only internal willingness creates transformation.

Brené Brown’s work on vulnerability further supports this. She stresses that facing discomfort is the birthplace of courage. When we deny our truth, we armor ourselves. When we admit it, we heal.

In recovery, stopping “The Great Persuader” means no longer needing to self-destruct. It means choosing honesty before a crisis. It is an inside job, requiring courage, humility, and daily vigilance.

Thus, the path is clear but difficult. By admitting the truth freely, we no longer surrender to destruction. We reclaim the gate of change and open it willingly.

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Comments

7 responses to “Stopping “The Great Persuader” from Distorting the Truth Within – Step 2”

May 4, 2025

Elexi W.S.A.

I think me being honest is to know, that some substances can lead me on a road to uncontrollable behavior, and put me in situations that I:d rather not endure or go through. Since I:ve honestly accepted this reality more, and more things have been looking more up.

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May 4, 2025

Ari L

I often have a worthlessness dialogue happening inside of me that’s difficult to deal with. Easy to convince myself of whatever contrived thing, whether it’s related to addiction or shame from it. Definitely something I’m working on.

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May 4, 2025

Sabrina J

It is a program of rigorous honesty. Not to you, to oneself. If a person is finding it difficult to honestly reflect and, worse yet, starts to accept and believe ones own lies, the disease that leads to addiction is taking hold.

In self evaluation and reflection the truth is the most powerful allie that each of us can use to guide in life to a constant betterment of oneself, and in doing so, this self honesty is witnessed and shared with others. Providing a light in the darkness for all to see

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May 2, 2013

Margot E.

The business of mindfulness – of living an examined life – a life of mindfulness and consciousness – requires that I be first and above all, honest with myself. When I am ruthlessly honest with myself, I gain the courage and strength to hear the voice of my Higher Power. I have found my Higher Power speaks most clearly when I am conscious and honest. Namaste.

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May 2, 2013

Slim Jim

Today, by following the Steps, the truth and my HP are tied together like shoe laces to making a perfect bow. When I’m not thinking and doing what feels right as if by reflex I find life to move much more smoothly.

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May 2, 2013

Br. Buddha

Good morning everyone + Happy Thursday. It’s a bright, sunny day ahead. It’s also gonna be a very hot day. Here is today’s thought. You must BE before you can DO. To accomplish much, be much. Don’t forget your sunscreen today. Blessings. BB

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August 4, 2012

Adam

It seems that my inner truth must mesh or be in alignment with what is meant for me by my higher power. That if I’m on the right path mentally and spiritually, then things will fall in to place. If I’m not open to that higher power showing me the path then I may not find the path. If I don’t open the gate how would I find the path…

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