Articles discussing Alcoholics Anonymous.
In 12-step programs like AA or NA, “13th stepping” describes the inappropriate behavior where an established member pursues romantic or sexual relationships with newcomers, exploiting their vulnerability and potentially jeopardizing their recovery. Learn More.
The “13th Step” in AA, NA & Other 12 Step Recovery Programs Read More »
What does ‘Friends of Bill’ mean?
“Friends of Bill” or “Friends of Bill W.” is a discreet term commonly used to refer to members of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or individuals who are in recovery from alcohol addiction. The phrase is an allusion to William Griffith Wilson, often known as Bill W., who co-founded AA alongside Dr. Bob Smith. The term underscores the importance of anonymity within the AA community.
Beyond its use in AA meetings, the term has found its way into various contexts such as cruise ships, biker gatherings, and other public events as a subtle call for mutual support or a sign of shared sobriety. Whether during a “Friends of Bill W. gathering” on a Royal Caribbean cruise or through a biker sporting an “I’m a Friend of Bill W.” patch, the phrase symbolizes solidarity, understanding, and the continuous journey toward recovery.
What Does ‘Friends of Bill’ or ‘Friends of Bill W.’ Mean? Read More »
Alcoholics Anonymous has numerous sayings, acronyms and slogans that you might hear someone mention or you might hear in a meeting. Depending on where you are in the world and which specific meeting you go to, you may find some of these AA acronyms and slogans more common than others.
146 Common Alcoholics Anonymous Slogans, Sayings, Acronyms, Mottos & Quotes Read More »
Despite being around for over 80 years, there is still a certain aura of mystery surrounding Alcoholics Anonymous. Some people say it is a miracle program that saved their lives, while others call it a cult.
The truth is, it is neither. Alcoholics Anonymous is a structured program that aims to facilitate recovery by providing a solid structure for a fulfilling spiritual life, to help addicts overcome their alcoholism.
How does it work? Members regularly attend meetings and find a sponsor. The support of these individuals is crucial to a successful recovery. They then work the 12-steps outline in AA literature carefully and methodically. If members genuinely want to quit drinking and follow the steps, they usually able to stay dry and establish a more fulfilling life in the long run.
How Alcoholics Anonymous Works Read More »
The 12-steps are the cornerstone of a popular approach to treating addiction, first popularized decades ago by Alcoholics Anonymous. The steps and the 12-step process more generally have a spiritual component.
However, the spiritual components of each step are not always apparent. In addition, the wording behind the steps often stresses practical concerns over spiritual ones.
Bill W., one of the two founders of AA, stressed the spiritual side of the program and wished to make that element more explicit. The 12 step program ultimately aims to replace destructive tendencies and addiction with a healthier and more sustainable way of life. Therefore, he envisioned a spiritual program that would be incorporated into all facets of day-to-day life.
The 12 Spiritual Principles (Virtues) of AA & What They Mean Read More »
Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship and organization that is known worldwide. It is available for men, women, and teenagers who struggle with alcoholism. Whether someone abuses alcohol or admits to having a problem with alcohol, Alcoholics Anonymous can help them. The meetings are not professional. They provide a supportive environment for anyone who needs help with overcoming their alcohol abuse or alcohol problem.
5 Ways Alcoholics Anonymous Helps Read More »
The official AA literature defines a sponsor as “an alcoholic who has made some progress in the recovery program shares that experience on a continuous, individual basis with another alcoholic who is attempting to attain or maintain sobriety through AA.” Sponsors serve an identical role in other 12-step fellowships.
The official definition significantly underrates the role of the sponsor. If you choose correctly, they will be an integral part of recovery. They will help keep you on the straight and narrow and avoid relapse. It is deeply inadvisable to attempt to work the steps without the guidance and advice of your sponsor on every single step. At first, you can select a temporary sponsor and begin work with them. But ultimately, finding the right permanent sponsor will be a crucial element in determining the success of your recovery. Therefore, it is very important to make the right choice in this regard.
Remember that performing service for the fellowship and its members is an important part of recovery. Therefore, in a very real way, you and your sponsor are helping each other through recovery. The sponsor and sponsee relationship are one of the best examples of the kind of mutual fellowship which helps 12-step participants remain sober in the long-term.
When looking for a sponsor, do not settle for the first member you make a connection with. Look for these important attributes:
What is a Sponsor and What to Look for in a 12-Step Sponsor Read More »
For as long as Alcoholics Anonymous has been around, it can still be a new program for those seeking out sobriety. The fellowship began in the early 1930’s by Bill W. and Dr. Bob S., who were individuals meeting with each other to try and stay sober. During their meetings, they realized that talking about their alcoholism with one another was what helped them stay sober. After developing the program of Alcoholics Anonymous, they moved forward to try and help other alcoholics obtain and maintain sobriety by attending meetings and working the program offered in the fellowship of AA.
The AA Preamble:
The AA Preamble – What it is, History & What it Means Read More »
Is Alcoholics Anonymous Religious?
While Alcoholics Anonymous does have some aspects that are based on religion, Alcoholics Anonymous as a group is not religious. Many alcoholics believe it is and that is one reason many decide not to go to A.A. meetings. However, Alcoholics Anonymous doesn’t require anyone to believe in a certain religion or in certain religious beliefs. While Alcoholics Anonymous is endorsed by and approved by various religious leaders, the program in itself is not religious. People of all religions and people who aren’t religious at all can be a part of Alcoholics Anonymous.
The Alcoholics Anonymous program is based upon accepting specific spiritually-based values. You are free to take these values and interpret them in any way that you would like. If you don’t agree with some of the values, you don’t have to follow them. It isn’t a specific program that you must follow in a set way.
Is Alcoholics Anonymous Religious? Read More »
What is the Serenity Prayer?
One of the things that help alcoholics and other addicts to recover from their addiction is the Serenity Prayer. If you have an addiction to alcohol or drugs, learning the Serenity Prayer could help you throughout your recovery process.
Defining the Serenity Prayer
The basic part of the Serenity Prayer, that is used the most, is this – “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.” The intention of this prayer is to bring faith, certainty, and peace into the hearts and minds of those who need support. When you say the prayer, you are asking your higher power to give you wisdom and guidance to accept what is in your life. You are also asking your higher power for the ability to manifest what is in your best interest.
What is the Serenity Prayer? Read More »
