At the beginning of every meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous I’ve attended someone is asked to read the 12 Steps. We move from the first step — admitting we are powerless and our lives have become unmanageable — through a process of realization and transformation, if carefully followed.

The 12th step reads: “Having had a spiritual awakening as a result of these steps, we tried to carry the message to alcoholics, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.”

So we move from a state of not being able to manage our lives to a focus on helping others. This is an ongoing process, and in the paragraph following the steps we read that no one claims perfect adherence to these principles. “The point is, that we are willing to grow along spiritual lines. The principles we have set down are guides to progress. We claim spiritual progress, rather than spiritual perfection.”

Progress, not perfection.

Behind this idea is one of self-forgiveness. If someone who had been a lifetime drinker or abuser of drugs “falls off the wagon” after the first month or so of sobriety, we don’t need to condemn; that’s happening already. What we can do is celebrate the steps so far, and encourage a new beginning. “How long has it been since you were sober that long? You can do it!”

1 John 3: 20 -If our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knows everything.

The same kindness can be shown in our journey with God. Progress, not perfection. Grace shows us that progress comes from the realization of the depth of our sin, the unbridled wildness of God’s love, and the unmerited gift of grace. Jesus did it all.

You’re not where you want to be? Or where you think you should be? Or where others expect you to be?

So what?

It’s not about you; it’s not about me; it’s about Jesus.

Remember that. And start over if you need to. Progress, not perfection.

Where have you seen God?