Alcoholism is an illness, and Alcoholics Anonymous has meetings and a “program” to help people recover from it. While the very name Alcoholics Anonymous seems shrouded in mystery, there isn’t anything suspicious or veiled about them. At every meeting, they start by reading out the “preamble”, the complete explanation of what AA is:

Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for AA membership; we are self-supporting through our own contributions. AA is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organization, or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy; and neither endorses nor opposes any causes. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety. (reprinted with permission of The AA Grapevine, Inc.).

I am just a bloke who got in a mess with booze. I arrived at the doors of AA without a hope in the world and found a worthwhile life. I don’t claim to be anything special, but I do have a good memory. As part of my own recovery, I have discussed the program with many people and I am certain that there is only one obstacle - our own thinking. It is a cycle. We struggle, we become willing to acknowledge our problem, we honestly discuss it and when we are open to learn, a light suddenly comes on. We look back and cannot believe how we made our recovery so difficult.

I have compiled the “light bulb” moments and common pitfalls I have encountered over the years to pass on to other people.

AA does not currently endorse this book, but I hope you find that it contains helpful ideas and suggestions if you try to adopt the program into your life.