The long version of the Serenity Prayer is a powerful and comprehensive invocation often used by those in recovery to seek strength, wisdom, and peace in their journey. While many people are familiar with the shorter version, the long version delves deeper into the spiritual aspects of acceptance and courage. It emphasizes not only the desire to find peace with the things we cannot change, but also the importance of finding joy in the present moment, surrendering to a higher power, and trusting in the divine plan.
For those in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or other 12-step programs, the long version of the Serenity Prayer can offer a more profound reflection on the principles of recovery, encouraging individuals to seek balance in all areas of life, trust in the process, and find serenity even in the face of life’s challenges.
The Complete Version of the Serenity Prayer
The complete version of the Serenity Prayer reads as follows:
God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change the things I can,
And wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time,
Enjoying one moment at a time,
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His Will;
So that I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with Him
Forever and ever in the next. Amen.
This version of the prayer expands on the themes of acceptance, courage, and wisdom by encouraging individuals to live in the present, find peace in difficult situations, and surrender to a higher power. The prayer concludes with the hope of eternal happiness, reflecting the deep spiritual roots of the 12-step program.
What is the Short Version?
The short version of the Serenity Prayer is more commonly recited in AA meetings and is known for its simplicity and directness. It goes:
God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change the things I can,
And wisdom to know the difference.
This concise version focuses on the core principles of acceptance, courage, and wisdom, which are essential components of recovery. It’s a practical prayer that many in recovery use daily to help them navigate the challenges of sobriety. The short version’s brevity makes it easy to remember and recite, providing a quick source of comfort and guidance in moments of need.
Is There a Serenity Prayer for Atheists in a 12-Step Program?
Yes, there are versions of the Serenity Prayer that have been adapted for atheists and those who prefer a secular approach to recovery. While the traditional Serenity Prayer is rooted in spirituality and the belief in a higher power, the essence of the prayer can be reinterpreted to align with personal beliefs. One’s own personal higher power can take various forms.
Rather than a prayer, atheists may refer to this as a mantra. For instance, some might say:
Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change the things I can,
And wisdom to know the difference.
This version removes the reference to “God” and focuses on the universal values of acceptance, courage, and wisdom. People who identify as atheists in a 12-step program can also find comfort in the principles of the Serenity Prayer by viewing it as a reflection on mindfulness, self-awareness, and the human capacity for resilience. Many 12-step groups encourage individuals to adapt the prayer to fit their beliefs, ensuring that everyone can benefit from its message regardless of faith or lack thereof.
How Many Versions of the Serenity Prayer Are There?
The Serenity Prayer has been adapted into numerous versions to suit different beliefs, philosophies, and needs. In addition to the long and short versions, and the versions adapted for atheists, there are also variations that have been tailored to different recovery programs or personal preferences. Some versions replace “God” with “Higher Power,” “Universe,” or “Spirit,” while others might focus more on the psychological aspects of acceptance and courage, rather than the spiritual.
The flexibility of the Serenity Prayer allows it to be a versatile tool in recovery programs, adaptable to the diverse needs of individuals in different stages of their journey. While the core message remains the same (seeking serenity, courage, and wisdom) the way it is expressed can vary greatly, making it accessible to a wide range of people in recovery.
When Do You Say the Serenity Prayer?
People in 12-step programs or AA meetings use the prayer as a daily practice. It is often recited at the beginning and end of meetings. The prayer can help people stay on track, remember that recovery is not about control, and remind them to practice acceptance.
Some people recite it when they’re craving alcohol or feel tempted to use other drugs. The mantra can also be used for meditation because it helps ground those in recovery.
12-Step Recovery at Spero Recovery
At Spero, our Colorado residential rehab for men, the 12-step program is a cornerstone of our approach to recovery. We understand that the journey to sobriety is deeply personal, and we strive to create an environment where each individual can explore and embrace the principles of the 12 steps in a way that resonates with them. The Serenity Prayer, in its various forms, is often used in our program as a daily practice to help our clients find peace, strength, and clarity as they work through the challenges of addiction.
Our experienced team at Spero is dedicated to supporting each man in his recovery journey, providing a safe and nurturing environment where the principles of the 12-step program can be fully realized. Whether through group therapy, individual counseling, or spiritual reflection, we encourage our clients to engage with the Serenity Prayer and other 12-step practices as tools for lasting change and personal growth.
At Spero, we believe that recovery is not just about overcoming addiction but about building a life filled with purpose, connection, and hope. We run a nonprofit residential rehab in Colorado that is accessible to men from all walks of life. Contact our team at Spero Recovery to learn more about our successful 12-step immersion program!
