I came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.  The power of a spiritual parent in the 12 steps process is the solution to the problem of addiction and the beginning of emergence into a new life. The invitation of this is to open ones heart to a spiritual connection and be open minded.  This process does not mean being forced but asks one to cease arguing and “you will slowly come to believe”.  trust the process.  Thousands have before you and they are the evidence that it works. WOW it is pretty amazing stuff that is not explainable in standard scientific terms.  I can see this in psychological terms though as a healthy re-attachment process to a spiritual power that provides healthy parenting.  That being open minded and ceasing arguing cuts through defences to allow this process to begin.  Over time one can become re-socialised with the higher power which becomes an important attachment that is always there and provides such a connection that it allows the anchoring and belonging that humans needs. The values that the higher power parent teaches such as humility being placed first even though it is compatible with intellect.  Really invites ones natural inner child which holds so much feeling, warmth and potential for bonding, being cared for and doing the same for others.