Reply #29: I have lots of experience with A.A.

[hang a left]

Alot of people get sober there. It is much easier to stay sober than it is to get sober, so putting people on the path to sobriety is a good thing. Alcoholics Anonymous is an introduction or reintroduction to a power greater than yourself. According to the text alcoholics have a daily reprieve contingent upon their spiritual condition.

In my opinion the twelve steps and especially the twelve traditions of the program were divinely inspired. Believing that God works through others. Unfortunately they are not practiced by the majority of the members. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees. However there are groups and clicks in every AA community, that do behave cult-like, and are hypocrites. I have watched newer members taken advantage of, or ridiculed, or castigated for relapse. I have observed back-biting, gossip, and behavior typical of high schoolers. I have witnessed forth step inventories revealed to group members, and evil mean-spirited "old-timers" drive newcomers away. There is an unpublished hierarchy in each regional group, contrary to the traditions.

I thank the program of Alcoholics Anonymous for getting me sober, and introducing me to a God that I can turn to. I also thank God for my low bottom. Staying sober today is a choice for me. However, I am like alot of people who came, got sober, and moved on.