Steve Ford

In extreme unhappiness born of separation, I began drinking. In 1995 I admitted the problem and got into recovery and then, after three and a half years of attending groups and working a 12 step programme, I had a sudden and spontaneous awakening one evening in 1999. The shift was so profound that it answered many questions such as who I was, and what was the nature of reality.

I knew that what had happened was a total shift, I could see and relate from consciousness itself, beyond mind or emotion. I had come to know an intimacy I had never known before.

I tried to communicate this experience to others who where sharing similar spiritual quests for truth, but I found that my words only attracted attempts to understand the reality I spoke of with the mind. I found that “being it” was easier than talking about it.

For the next seven years I got on with my life. The new perspective I got from that awakening never left me. I knew I could see from a place that was free from perception, which was totally present, but I also knew that, as yet, I was unable to convey this in words. So I became quiet and concentrated on becoming a therapist and raising a family.

Life was to change again seven years after the awakening, when I began meeting spiritual seekers for the first time, individuals who solely sought awakening.

I began to talk of the awakening experience that I had had in 1999 and to share sitting in being with them. Before long, I was sitting with small groups on a weekly basis. In this contemplative atmosphere, I began to explore consciousness more deeply, sharing with the group that invitation. I continue to invite people to meetings, sit in being and explore truth together.

Steve is available for 12 Step Counselling and private consultation. He also holds regular contemplative meetings and retreats. See the events page for the next meeting.