The Way of Our People

Weekly Inspiration for American Indians in Recovery from Alcoholism

These inspirational meditations, prayers, and stories were written by an Ojibwe Elder and alcohol and drug counselor to speak directly to American Indians about their everyday experience of recovery from alcoholism. A combination of Ojibwe and Twelve Step spiritual principles and practices, along with stories from Indians struggling with recovery, create an authentic experience of the challenges and rewards of living sober. People from all tribes will recognize spiritual laws like Honesty, Sharing, Kindness, and Strength, along with traditional rituals such as offering tobacco with prayers, and can apply teachings from their own culture to these messages.The importance of reliance on the Creator, the wisdom of Elders, and sober community support inform these writings to provide strength while counteracting the harsh realities of poverty, violence, and broken relationships fueled by alcohol abuse. A meditation, seven daily prayers, and selected stories “from the rooms” of AA meetings are presented for each of the 52 weeks of the year, providing a weekly and daily source of inspiration and hope.