Lifesaver

March 22, 2004 James G. Greenhill (Durango, CO USA)

It perplexes me there are so few reviews of this great book "Alcoholics Anonymous". It perplexes me because this book has saved literally millions of lives. For anyone struggling with alcoholism, this is the way to get sober. The principles of the Alcoholics Anonymous program can -- and have been -- applied to just about any addiction. This program is the foundation of Cocaine Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous and every other 12 step program. This is where it all started.

My pastor mentioned in church just today how the sprituality of people who've been in 12 step programs is sometimes especially striking. That's true. It's because if a person follows the 12 steps, they will find it a life-changing experience. They will not be exactly the same person they were when they started. For more on this, see a passage in the book known in the program that took its name from the book's title "Alcoholics Anonymous" as "the promises."

If you read this book, also read the accompanying 12 Steps and 12 Traditions volume. The two go together -- though if you read only one read this one.

The "Alcoholics Anonymous" book is especially helpful in dealing with the issue of a higher power.

The book goes way beyond what someone will find in a typical AA meeting. A person who is attempting sobriety needs this book, a sponsor and the meetings.

This is, statistically, the best shot there is at sobriety. This book and the program it spawned are an extraordinary gift for those who choose to accept them.

The newcomer might find the book "Alcoholics Anonymous" somewhat dated. Stick with it. It's worth it. And, as time goes by, it will become clearer and clearer.