Grew up in the church. I was taught religion in the church. My parents were examples of people who had a relationship. I didn't experience the difference between the two until I was an adult. I wrestled with my faith until the day that I lost it. I looked for other answers. I looked for the answer in drugs and alcohol. It led me back to a room full of people with labels. We met and talked about a solution. The groups were named after the labels of their members that contained the word "anonymous". We all took twelve steps. We learned about spirituality and relationships, not religious doctrine. We were encouraged to admit defeat, be open to seeking another answer, and to seek it out. We decided to pursue a Higher Power. Through the principles I grew up on, a relationship with God, and a plan for applying God to my life, I was able to grow in a new understanding of God. The new understanding led me to more knowledge, a closer relationship, a sense of trust, and a new experience in life. My latest experience sparked a spiritual awakening and led me to a new life.