Comment: Since there is no 'standard' way of 'working' the Steps (that is assuming one wishes to work them in the first place. After all they don't represent the sole means by which alcoholics recover – a fact explicitly acknowledged in the book Alcoholics Anonymous) there can be no “standard” guide. The Big Book outlines a possible (and “suggested”) approach but no more than that. Similarly the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions (authored by Bill W) offers no more than a commentary on the subject and can by no means be regarded as definitive. Finally recovery remains the responsibility of each individual (in the company of others), and the method adopted, and the manner of its implementation, their choice alone. No “special interpretations” (ie. 'expert' guidance) are required:
“As
finally expressed and offered, they [The Twelve Steps] are simple in
language, plain in meaning. They are also workable by any person
having a sincere desire to obtain and keep sobriety. The results are
proof. Their simplicity and workability are such that no special
interpretations, and certainly no reservations, have ever been
necessary.” (Dr. Bob. Dr. Bob and the Good Old Timers page 227)
Cheers
The Fellas
(Friends of Alcoholics Anonymous)
You know, there are so many different complicated interpretations around AA these days. It must be so confusing for our newcomers. And it seems to be getting worse. I feel for them, and I pray for them. Do you know what dear old Dr Bob said to Bill W the last time they met? “Keep it simple” he said. How wise those words are for us today. Our AA founders kept the program short and simple for their new fellows. Goodness, they didn't have time for degree courses in the Steps back in those days! You can't get a PhD in “Step Studies”, but you can get drunk if you don't keep it simple. May God bless all alcoholics.
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