The Alcoholics Anonymous General Service Organization has released a new pamphlet addressing the needs of alcoholics who may have trouble with the concept of a higher power, but want to be part of AA and who seek to benefit from the strengths of the program as they strive to achieve recovery.
Kudos to the GSO!
[gview file=”http://www.aa.org/assets/en_US/p-84_manypathstospirituality.pdf” save=”1″]
Note: The embedded document is Copyright © 2014 Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc. 475 Riverside Drive New York, NY 10115.
Past age 65, binge drinking, defined as four or more drinks in one sitting, may have permanent consequences on the human brain, including memory loss and accelerated cognitive decline, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, as reported in Bloomberg News, article 
I am constantly frustrated by the compulsion on the part of AA members and groups to apply one single truth to all situations. The current calcification of AA culture into one of narrow Christian recovery dogma alienates and hurts many of exactly those for whom the program is intended. I am not saying that there is anything wrong with “Atlantic” type and “step-nazi” groups, except when they foster a culture that alienates and turns away those who need help. I wish the traditions included a declaration of gentle welcome for all new members and guests, as well as for members seeking help for similar and/or related addictions. I have often seen people make comments out of turn in meetings to clarify to a newcomer that the meeting is for alcoholics only, as described in the following article. It really puzzles me, particularly as the face of addiction has changed so much in the past twenty years. My meeting has a few atheists, a few addicts and even a person who comes each week in support of their partner. We are a strong, supportive group. We let people voice their opinions without responding or cross-talking. There are no prayers .The only requirement for membership is a desire to quit drinking. It works.
