PDF Summary:Breathing Under Water, by Richard Rohr

Breathing Under Water by Richard Rohr explores the profound parallels between the transformative teachings of the Gospel and the principles of the Twelve Steps program of Alcoholics Anonymous. Both traditions emphasize recognizing one's frailty and surrendering attempts to control life by individual willpower.

Rohr maps the path toward personal renewal and spiritual freedom through practices like acknowledging powerlessness, unflinching self-reflection, and yielding to a Higher Power. For those seeking truth or recovery from addiction, this guide integrates contemplative prayer, making amends, and cultivating humility to unlock the boundless love and grace that catalyzes change from within.

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Rohr underscores the importance of opening one's mind, heart, and body to the transformative power of a higher power. He argues that true spiritual growth requires an integration of all aspects of our being, allowing the divine to permeate and heal not just our thoughts, but also our emotions, relationships, and physical experiences.

Engaging in meditative practices is crucial for accessing the deep wisdom within one's spirit.

Rohr underscores the vital significance of participating in profound contemplative prayer and meditation, as underscored by the eleventh step, to access the deep wisdom that resides within the soul. He argues that these practices foster a mindset that goes beyond dualistic thought, enabling a transition from the limiting dichotomy of analytical reasoning to a more expansive and inclusive perspective. By calming our thoughts and fostering a sense of receptivity in our spirits, we create space for a deep encounter with the Divine Presence inside us, which he describes as the ever-present Observer, equivalent to the all-encompassing Awareness.

Participating in activities that calm the mind and emotions can pave the way for a more profound bond with one's inner spirituality.

Rohr maintains that to commune with God's inner presence, which Christians refer to as the Holy Spirit, it is crucial to quiet the mind's constant noise and to unlock the heart's potential. We often place a higher value on the skills of analysis, judgment, and problem-solving, which can overshadow the innate wisdom we possess. In a serene and receptive state, we are believed to harmonize with the Divine's gentle direction, which steers us towards a life filled with love and tranquility.

Detachment from one's habitual thought patterns and emotional reactivity cultivates presence and clarity

Rohr underscores the importance of detaching from our typical cognitive and emotional reactions to cultivate an enhanced consciousness and more lucid comprehension. He argues that societal influences and experiences from our past often distort and limit our understanding of reality by shaping how we think. By cultivating a sense of detachment, he suggests, we gain the ability to distance ourselves from our cognitive and affective habits, which in turn enables us to perceive reality more clearly and with a heightened sense of empathy. The author suggests that this understanding leads to a more authentic and fulfilling existence.

Adopting the principles of the Twelve Steps can facilitate the healing of past emotional wounds, thereby enabling a deeper capacity for love within one's heart.

Rohr underscores the necessity of healing past wounds by engaging in a crucial process that involves a series of transformative stages, which paves the way for one's heart to embrace a spiritual bond. He contends that when pain and trauma remain unaddressed, they can cause obstructions within one's emotional core, resulting in a guarded demeanor, a reluctance to form close bonds, and a hindered capacity to engage in wholehearted love. By engaging in the courageous work of acknowledging and processing these wounds, he claims, we can begin to release the constrictions around our hearts and open ourselves up to a more expansive experience of love, both for ourselves and others.

Addressing and recovering from emotional scars and trauma clears a path for the spirit to welcome the divine.

Rohr emphasizes the necessity of acknowledging and confronting emotional pain and trauma as a vital phase in wholeheartedly welcoming divine affection. He argues that neglecting our internal scars can skew our perceptions and behaviors, often leading to a cycle of self-sabotage and a reluctance to establish meaningful connections with others. Through therapeutic practices, acknowledging our misdeeds, or reflective writing, we begin to diminish the power our inner wounds have over us, which in turn makes us more receptive to the solace provided by a higher spiritual affection.

When the heart is liberated from its limitations, it opens the door to authentic closeness and the growth of meaningful connections.

Rohr emphasizes the importance of liberating one's emotional core from previous traumas and unresolved emotional burdens to cultivate true intimacy and nurturing relationships. He elucidates that bearing these scars, we inadvertently cast them onto others, frequently responding with fear, defensiveness, and distrust. Richard Rohr emphasizes the importance of fostering forgiveness, cultivating compassion for oneself, and adopting a stance of true openness and authenticity as a means to develop deep and meaningful connections with other people.

For comprehensive growth, it is crucial to be in tune with the body's inherent wisdom.

Rohr emphasizes the importance of honoring and concentrating on the body's inherent wisdom as an essential element in the comprehensive growth of an individual's spiritual existence. Richard Rohr argues that spiritual traditions often neglect or undervalue the innate wisdom of the body, a wisdom that is often ignored or overpowered by the intellect. By paying attention to the nuanced signs like sensations, impulses, and gut feelings, we can access a deep comprehension that guides us to achieve total health and well-being.

Our physical form provides essential insights through its instincts, feelings, and gut reactions, which the intellect frequently overlooks.

Rohr underscores the importance of our bodily instincts, emotions, and intuitive responses, highlighting that they offer crucial understanding often disregarded or undervalued due to the mind's perpetual flow of ideas and focus on logical reasoning. He contends that staying anchored in the immediacy of our physical lives, while harmonizing with profound internal insights, can uncover important realities concerning our ambitions, sources of happiness, and fundamental objectives. He suggests that a more fulfilling and authentic life journey starts with the recognition and trust in our innate wisdom.

We must treat the body with reverence as a hallowed abode, a sanctuary for the divine, rather than disregarding or despising it.

Rohr promotes an integrated view of human nature, emphasizing the importance of the physical form as a crucial element in our spiritual evolution. Richard Rohr argues that the body surpasses being just a vessel and becomes a hallowed space occupied by the Holy Spirit, aligning with Paul's doctrines. Richard Rohr encourages a transformation in viewpoint, from disdain and dismissal of the corporeal self to an acknowledgment and embracing of it as a conduit for enlightenment, joy, and a bridge towards spiritual transcendence.

Other Perspectives

• Some may argue that spiritual growth is not necessarily contingent on belief in or guidance from a higher power; personal development can also be achieved through secular means such as philosophy, ethics, and self-reflection.
• While meditative practices are beneficial for many, they are not the only method to access inner wisdom; other forms of introspection or therapy can also lead to deep personal insights.
• The idea of calming the mind and emotions to connect with spirituality may not resonate with everyone; some individuals find spirituality through active engagement with the world and their passions.
• Detachment from habitual thought patterns can be beneficial, but it is also important to recognize the value of emotions and thoughts as part of the human experience and not always something to detach from.
• The Twelve Steps have been effective for many, but they are not universally applicable; some may find other methods of healing more effective for addressing emotional wounds.
• Addressing emotional scars and trauma is important, but the process of healing is complex and individualized; what works for one person may not work for another, and not all healing involves a spiritual component.
• The concept of liberating the heart from limitations is subjective; some may find that embracing their limitations is a more realistic and healthy approach to personal growth.
• The emphasis on the body's inherent wisdom may not take into account the complexities of the mind-body relationship, including how cognitive biases and mental health issues can affect one's interpretation of bodily signals.
• The idea that the body is a sanctuary for the divine is a spiritual belief that may not align with the views of those who do not subscribe to the concept of divinity or who have different religious beliefs.

The teachings of the Gospel, in conjunction with the guiding tenets of the Twelve Steps, underscore the significance of providing mutual support, offering forgiveness, and upholding personal accountability.

Rohr underscores the importance of integrating the principles of the Twelve Steps with the teachings of the Gospel to foster individual transformation, mend broken bonds, and pave the way for true reconciliation, highlighting throughout the critical importance of responsibility, pardon, and the backing of a supportive community. He contends that through the acceptance of humility and an acknowledgment of our collective frailties, we can break free from the repetitive patterns of assigning blame, harboring bitterness, and engaging in actions that harm ourselves.

To mend broken bonds and restore a feeling of wholeness, one must seek to make amends for the harm done to others, as emphasized by the ninth stage of the process.

Rohr emphasizes the importance of making amends for harm done to others, which is a crucial aspect of the ninth stage referred to as the Twelve Step program. He contends that this phase extends past simple apologies, necessitating proactive measures to mend the harm inflicted upon others. He clarifies that it is crucial to acknowledge the repercussions of one's behavior, take responsibility for the harm caused, and sincerely express a commitment to repair the broken bond as fundamental stages in the process of reconciliation. Achieving inner completeness is essential for repairing broken bonds, restoring trust, and promoting healing within the community.

Admitting to one's own deeds and sincerely seeking pardon liberates both the individual and those around them.

Rohr asserts that when we recognize our shortcomings and sincerely seek forgiveness from those we have harmed, we achieve a liberation that not only enriches our own lives but also positively affects those touched by our actions. He explains that by recognizing our mistakes and expressing remorse, we can break down the walls of self-justification and defense, freeing ourselves from the burden of shame and guilt. This modest act, he maintains, lays the foundation for recovery, allowing those who have been hurt by our deeds to recognize their suffering and release their resentment.

Offering and receiving forgiveness interrupts the continuous cycle of resentment and vengeance.

Rohr underscores the profound effect that both extending and accepting forgiveness can have on breaking persistent patterns of bitterness and the desire for vengeance. He argues that the only way to create a society founded on justice and comprehension is by undertaking the challenging path toward forgiveness. Harboring feelings of resentment and a yearning for retribution, he elucidates, ensures that we remain ensnared by an unalterable history. While not excusing detrimental behavior, forgiveness provides a route to liberation, allowing an individual to let go of previous encumbrances and move forward with a disposition more open to change.

The principles of the Twelve Steps advocate for a communal approach to acknowledging individual shortcomings and collective accountability, reflecting the value that the Gospel places on the power of collective healing.

Rohr effectively demonstrates that the emphasis on shared acknowledgment and collective accountability found in the Twelve Steps is in harmony with the Gospel's teachings regarding the healing power that exists within a community. He elucidates that confessing our imperfections and missteps to each other, though it may be a humbling and at times difficult process, can eradicate loneliness, reduce feelings of embarrassment, and tear apart the barriers of independence that our egos construct. In his quest for completeness, he emphasizes the importance of exchanging our challenges and providing reciprocal encouragement, nurturing a setting where divine compassion flourishes and contributes to the restoration of both individuals and the entire community.

Openly discussing one's challenges and setbacks with others diminishes feelings of solitude and embarrassment.

Rohr posits that by openly discussing our challenges and shortcomings in a supportive and empathetic environment, we can significantly diminish feelings of solitude and embarrassment. He elucidates that due to fear and insecurity, our ego tends to create barriers between ourselves and others, concealing our imperfections beneath a facade of self-sufficiency and the pursuit of flawlessness. This isolation, he asserts, only serves to reinforce detrimental self-perceptions and hinders our ability to heal. By mustering the bravery to expose our weaknesses and narrate our experiences to others, he contends, we shatter the hold of concealment and embarrassment, thereby permitting our human flaws to be observed and embraced.

Mutual support and empathetic listening are at the heart of Christ's service.

Rohr highlights how supporting one another's growth through compassionate listening and encouragement reflects the very essence of Christ's ministry. Jesus interacted with those marginalized by society, listened carefully to their stories, and offered them words that affirmed and restored their well-being. Rohr contends that adherents to the teachings of Jesus should cultivate a supportive atmosphere that promotes understanding and unity, enabling people to openly share their struggles, receive unbiased advice, and strengthen themselves with the shared insights of the community.

Forgiveness is a pivotal concept highlighted in the teachings of the Gospel and the core principles of the Twelve Steps, both of which free people from the shackles of their history and lay the groundwork for a renewed life ahead.

Rohr underscores the importance of adopting forgiveness, a cornerstone of Christian doctrine and essential to the Twelve Steps, as it is vital for shedding the burden of past woes and progressing toward a hopeful and benevolent future. He understands that true forgiveness is a laborious process that involves relinquishing bitterness, forgoing the desire for retribution, and dedicating oneself to a profound gesture of empathy. However, he argues that the only way to break free from the persistent cycles of pain, anger, and bitterness is through the act of forgiving.

Accepting what has happened and letting go of the wish for an alternate past can pave the way to true freedom.

Rohr maintains that true forgiveness involves releasing the desire for an alternate history and embracing what actually occurred. He explains that clinging to resentment and previous offenses ties us to those ancient injuries, preventing our advancement and the capacity to welcome new experiences with open hearts. Richard Rohr asserts that forgiveness is not about excusing harmful actions but rather about freeing ourselves from their ongoing influence on our lives. Acknowledging the unchangeable nature of the past is crucial, and moving forward with self-compassion and forgiveness for those who have inflicted pain upon us is a necessary step.

Forgiving oneself and others is necessary for personal and communal restoration

Rohr underscores the importance of pardoning others as well as oneself as a crucial step toward individual and collective healing. He explains that holding onto regret and self-blame traps us in a cycle that continuously undermines our sense of self-value, preventing us from fully accepting the limitless mercy and forgiveness that the Divine offers. Richard Rohr posits that extending compassion and comprehension towards ourselves and those around us allows us to break free from the chain of destructive actions, fostering recovery, reconciling connections, and reinstating a feeling of wholeness.

Other Perspectives

• While mutual support is valuable, some may argue that excessive reliance on others can inhibit personal growth and self-reliance.
• The integration of the Twelve Steps with the Gospel may not resonate with individuals of different faiths or those who are non-religious.
• The process of making amends, as outlined in the Twelve Steps, might not be suitable for all situations, especially where contact could cause more harm.
• Seeking pardon can be liberating, but it may not always result in forgiveness from others, and individuals must sometimes find peace independently.
• The cycle of resentment and vengeance can be complex, and forgiveness alone may not be sufficient to break it; systemic or structural issues may also need to be addressed.
• The communal approach advocated by the Twelve Steps may not be comfortable or effective for everyone, particularly for those who value privacy or individualistic cultures.
• Openly discussing one's challenges can be therapeutic, but it can also lead to vulnerability and potential breaches of confidentiality.
• The concept of mutual support and empathetic listening, while central to Christ's service, may not align with all interpretations of Christian doctrine or other religious beliefs.
• Forgiveness is important, but it is not always possible or appropriate, such as in cases of severe abuse or trauma where safety and justice are priorities.
• Accepting the past can lead to freedom, but it may also require a process of grief and anger before reaching acceptance.
• Forgiving oneself and others is often a complex and non-linear process that may require professional support and cannot always be achieved through personal or communal efforts alone.

The Twelve Steps and the Gospel both aim to foster a spiritual awakening and profound change.

Rohr asserts that the fundamental purpose of the Gospel and the Twelve Steps is to profoundly stir spiritual awareness in individuals. This metamorphosis, he clarifies, extends beyond simply modifying one's conduct or enhancing ethical conduct. The journey necessitates a deep shift in consciousness, how one views oneself, and an understanding of one's place in the grand scheme of life.

The Twelve Steps are designed to catalyze a deep spiritual metamorphosis, an idea frequently alluded to in the concluding step.

Rohr underscores that the ultimate goal of the Twelve Steps, reaching its zenith in Step 12, is not merely to cease the use of a certain substance or to put an end to a specific behavior, but to achieve a deep spiritual awakening. The initial steps highlight the importance of acknowledging personal powerlessness, confronting past misdeeds, and participating in the act of rectifying them, which Rohr identifies as crucial measures that set the stage for a profound encounter that changes one's entire perspective on life.

This fresh insight leads to a profound change in how one perceives and understands oneself, going beyond the mere avoidance of certain behaviors.

Rohr emphasizes the need for a profound shift in how we view ourselves and the world, moving from an individualistic viewpoint to an understanding of our place within a larger collective and our connection to a transcendent presence beyond our individual existence. He elucidates that this journey is perpetual, continuously unveiling the profoundest core and transformative strength of divine affection. It nurtures a sense of belonging, imbues individuals with a meaningful role, and develops the ability to engage compassionately while dedicating oneself to the broader community's welfare.

It involves establishing a deep connection with the spiritual realm that fosters a commitment to acts of kindness and service.

Rohr asserts that embracing the journey of transformation as delineated in the Twelve Steps results in a life devoted to assisting others and exhibiting compassion. Richard Rohr explains that individuals transformed by the profound impact of divine grace are naturally compelled to offer this comfort to others who are suffering. This desire to help others originates from profound gratitude and a commitment to aiding in the world's healing.

The fundamental principles of both the Twelve Steps and the Gospel highlight a journey of transformation in which a person surrenders their false sense of self to acknowledge and accept their innate holiness.

Rohr emphasizes the alignment between the principles of the Twelve Steps and the messages found in the Gospel, emphasizing a profound change in which an individual lets go of a false sense of self—characterized by the ego's desire for dominance, apprehension, and seclusion—to embrace their true spiritual essence. The author elucidates that transformation involves recognizing our inherent helplessness, confronting the parts of our character we frequently ignore, and releasing the bonds that tie us to an illusory sense of self.

By letting go of the ego's deceptions and clingings, we clear the way for our authentic selves to emerge.

Rohr suggests that when we let go of the ego's illusions and its incessant quest for control, acceptance, and security, we create an avenue for our authentic selves to emerge, in alignment with our spiritual destiny. Richard Rohr clarifies that our sense of self, driven by an intense fear of inadequacy and the threat of oblivion, creates a false identity that depends greatly on external indicators of success, social acceptance, and the perpetual effort to sustain its presence. Richard Rohr highlights the importance of bravely letting go of these deceptive bonds to tap into our essence, characterized by a deep connection to a love-infused reality that goes beyond our solitary selves.

Acknowledging our intrinsic connection to the Divine and the entirety of creation propels us on a path that enriches our lives with liberty, happiness, and a deep ability to love.

Rohr asserts that acknowledging our intrinsic bond with the divine lays the foundation for a life brimming with freedom, joy, and love. In the process of removing the veils that conceal our true nature, we begin to understand our intrinsic connection to the divine, which in turn enables us to recognize the interconnectedness of all life and our role within this expansive web. The insights provided by Rohr lead to a profound sense of peace and gratitude, along with a desire to nurture peaceful relationships within oneself, with others, and in one's spiritual interactions.

Other Perspectives

• The Twelve Steps program, while spiritual in nature, is not explicitly religious and can be worked by people of various or no faith traditions, suggesting that the comparison to the Gospel may not resonate with everyone.
• The effectiveness of the Twelve Steps can vary greatly among individuals, and some critics argue that it may not be the most effective form of addiction treatment for everyone.
• The concept of a "spiritual awakening" is subjective and can be interpreted in many ways, not all of which align with the principles of the Twelve Steps or the Gospel.
• The idea of surrendering a false sense of self assumes that there is a universal true self, which is a point of philosophical debate.
• The emphasis on spirituality and divine connection may not appeal to those who are secular or who find meaning through non-spiritual avenues.
• The notion of innate holiness is a religious concept that may not be accepted by all individuals or cultures, some of which may have different understandings of human nature.
• The focus on personal transformation through spirituality might overlook the importance of social, economic, and environmental factors in personal and societal well-being.
• The idea that letting go of the ego's deceptions will automatically lead to the emergence of an authentic self is not universally accepted and can be seen as an oversimplification of psychological development.

The call to aid others and spread the teachings.

Richard Rohr emphasizes the importance of assisting others, drawing inspiration from the teachings present in the Gospel and the Twelve Steps, and urges those who have experienced spiritual rejuvenation to share their wisdom and stories with others. He argues that this type of sharing ought to be regarded as a genuine expression of kindness and goodwill, intended not to impose a particular belief system but to provide assistance to those grappling with challenges.

People who have undergone a significant spiritual change frequently feel compelled to impart their newfound wisdom to others struggling with addiction.

Rohr highlights that those changed by the principles of the Twelve Steps instinctively reach out to provide guidance and inspiration to others who are still struggling with addiction. Richard Rohr elucidates that the drive to assist others originates from a deep-seated gratitude for one's journey toward recovery and a compelling desire to aid in the ongoing renewal of the world.

The program consisting of Twelve Steps underscores the significance of engaging in service and outreach as essential components for ongoing personal development.

Rohr emphasizes that personal growth and recovery are bolstered by a commitment to service and outreach, which are essential elements that resonate with the guiding principles of the Twelve Steps. Individuals strengthen their commitment to the principles of the program and reinforce their resolve to live soberly, thus deepening their sense of significance and intention, by offering support to individuals grappling with challenges.

Jesus' teachings motivate his followers to disseminate his teachings and assist those in need.

Rohr draws attention to the notable parallel in the focus on service that is foundational to the Twelve Steps and the instructions given by the Gospel for the followers of Jesus to disseminate His teachings and aid those in need. He contends that by demonstrating our beliefs through actions and speech, we aim to manifest a palpable embodiment of compassion and divine affection, not to persuade others to adopt our perspective. The endeavor's primary goal is to bolster resilience and foster hope among those encountering challenges, as well as to aid in building a more equitable and compassionate society.

Sharing knowledge about the path to recovery can aid others and at the same time reinforce one's own understanding and commitment.

Rohr asserts that when individuals share their path to liberation and healing, whether through embracing the Twelve Steps or the principles of the Gospel, they not only support others but also solidify their own understanding and commitment. He elucidates that expressing the transformative realizations we've attained in words helps to firmly establish them within our consciousness and emotional core. Our conviction and sense of self are strengthened by witnessing the impact of our actions on others, which motivates us to cling more firmly to the truth we have discovered.

Consistent interaction with the principles of the Twelve Steps strengthens their impact on a person's life.

Rohr emphasizes the profound influence that regular adherence to the Twelve Steps may have in thoroughly ingraining these values in our lives. He elucidates that through sharing the insights we've gained and diligently working to harmonize our lives with these truths, we can embed them more profoundly within our awareness, thereby influencing our viewpoints, decisions, and behaviors.

Helping others disrupts the cycle of self-preoccupation, nurturing an attitude that is empathetic and caring.

Rohr underscores the notion that by helping others, we interrupt the self-centered inclinations of the ego, thereby cultivating a disposition marked by empathy and an inclination toward giving. He argues that focusing on alleviating the struggles of others inherently shifts our focus away from our personal problems, fostering a deeper understanding and empathy for the challenges they face. Richard Rohr maintains that this practice not only strengthens our ability to navigate our feelings but also lays the groundwork for a life that is more deeply connected to the experiences of others through heightened self-understanding.

Other Perspectives

• While sharing personal experiences can be beneficial, it may not always be appropriate or helpful for everyone; some individuals may not be receptive to the teachings of the Twelve Steps or the Gospel.
• The compulsion to share one's spiritual transformation can sometimes be perceived as proselytizing, which could be off-putting for those with different beliefs or who are not ready to hear it.
• Service and outreach are important, but they should not be the sole focus of personal development; self-care and setting boundaries are also crucial for a balanced life.
• The effectiveness of the Twelve Steps is not universally accepted, and some critics argue that its success rates are not well-documented or that alternative methods can be more effective for some individuals.
• The assumption that helping others will disrupt self-preoccupation may not hold true for everyone; some individuals might use service to others as a form of avoidance of their own issues.
• The idea that consistent interaction with the Twelve Steps will strengthen their impact may not consider the complexity of addiction and recovery, which can be non-linear and require a more personalized approach.
• The notion that spreading Jesus' teachings is a form of compassion could be challenged by those who believe that true compassion respects and honors the diversity of religious beliefs and non-belief.