A.A. FOLKLORE

We just don’t drink, no mater what!
Really. So, how does that jive with powerlessness? If alcoholics could just not drink, why the hell would they need AA or anything else for that matter?

If you don’t go to meetings you will get drunk.
When the book Alcoholics Anonymous was written and published (1939) there were no AA meetings. The first “AA” meeting took place on May 11,1939 in Cleveland. Meetings are where the fellowship is found, sobriety comes by learning to live on the Spiritual Basis through the application of the steps in ones life. Staying sober through “osmosis” in meetings is not just a myth, but deadly.

There is no wrong way to work the Steps.
Really. Then why do folks who have “worked” the steps drink? Having been in the recovery community for over twenty years and worked with over a thousand individuals I have been approached by many for help who drank although they were “working” the program. In 30 seconds, literally, or less by asking a couple of questions it becomes obvious to all that they were not working the steps but only some of the steps. Ever bake a cake? Next time leave out an ingredient or two and see how it turns out. “Rarely have we seen a person fail who has thoroughly followed our path.” From my observations strike rarely and write never.

There is no wrong way to work the program.
See above.

Your program is unique to you.
Barbara Streisand. No where in the Big Book are options offered for working the steps. Your relationship with a power greater than yourself is unique to you, but the steps, the process are the same for all. I will never forget the time I heard a “old timer” (20+ years sober) proudly say “If you worked the program the way I work the program you would probably get drunk.” So true, unfortunately in the end it didn’t work for them either.

If you got up before me this morning you are sober longer than I am.
I understand the sentiment, but a horse whipping is too light a punishment for whoever came up with this chestnut, and I mean that with all love and tolerance. Completely discounts experience while trying to make the newcomer feel welcome. Which leads to…

The newcomer is the most important person in the room.
Why? And when does someone cross the line and become unimportant? And in whose eyes? God? I think not. Again I understand the sentiment but this is still more Barbara Streisand.

All of these sayings, and many others, originated from a good place. All of them rooted in someone’s desire to be helpful, but as with so many attempts to be helpful (think government) they are not thought through. Words have power. So remember, if it sounds too good to be true or offers a shortcut to Living on the Spiritual Basis, it probably is and the only shortcut is being consistent, honest, willing and open minded in adherence to the path. Please feel free to send your favorite pieces of folklore for a future article. Oh, and just don’t drink.