The operative word is "we" in the above statement, as in the one thing we share as members of our fellowship...sobriety. Alcoholism effects nearly 15% of the world, that does not, however, mean that everyone in AA is an alcoholic. And even those who are might not be practicing our principles in all of their affairs. To the new-comer, the vulnerable and the weak these people may appear helpful, genuine, sincere and sober. This is a dangerous trap, newcomers can be lead away from the message of AA by non-alcoholic, lonely, or otherwise disenfranchised members of our fellowship, often resulting in these newcomers leaving our meetings.
Our program of recovery is 100% successful, meaning that without a doubt when our spiritual principles are applied in our daily lives they bring about a psychic change sufficient for recovery. Without these spiritual tools, the real alcoholic will drink again without doubt. It is of paramount importance that the new members of our fellowship are steered to responsible, well meaning, and sober members of our program so that they are delivered our message in a clear and consistent fashion.
Be careful who you listen to, you should be able to tell in short order, who is following the steps of our program and who is not. Familiarize yourself with our basic text, look for similarities between what someone shares and what is in that book, while they may not match perfectly they should be generally the same. Look for sponsees, if they have none there is probably a reason. Ask how long they are sober, yes this matters, a person can have all the head knowledge in the world, can say they have been "around" for a few 24 hours, sound really good in meetings, but when you ask the truth is they have never made it more than 6 months between loads.
If you have beliefs about such things as religion, medication, sexual preference, meetings, etc...it is wise to find someone with whom you share these beliefs. Like minded people (as long as your thinking is correct) exist and will be happy to share with you with love and tolerance. I practice a certain religion, therefor I am particularly well suited to sponsor someone who also participates in this religion. It also means that we should share the same moral and ethical beliefs.
Our program of recovery is 100% successful, meaning that without a doubt when our spiritual principles are applied in our daily lives they bring about a psychic change sufficient for recovery. Without these spiritual tools, the real alcoholic will drink again without doubt. It is of paramount importance that the new members of our fellowship are steered to responsible, well meaning, and sober members of our program so that they are delivered our message in a clear and consistent fashion.
Be careful who you listen to, you should be able to tell in short order, who is following the steps of our program and who is not. Familiarize yourself with our basic text, look for similarities between what someone shares and what is in that book, while they may not match perfectly they should be generally the same. Look for sponsees, if they have none there is probably a reason. Ask how long they are sober, yes this matters, a person can have all the head knowledge in the world, can say they have been "around" for a few 24 hours, sound really good in meetings, but when you ask the truth is they have never made it more than 6 months between loads.
If you have beliefs about such things as religion, medication, sexual preference, meetings, etc...it is wise to find someone with whom you share these beliefs. Like minded people (as long as your thinking is correct) exist and will be happy to share with you with love and tolerance. I practice a certain religion, therefor I am particularly well suited to sponsor someone who also participates in this religion. It also means that we should share the same moral and ethical beliefs.
If you want what we have...