Bill and Lois' Christmas Message, 1944

TO ALL MEMBERS:

Greetings On Our 10th Christmas 1944

Yes, it's in the air! The spirit of Christmas once more warms this poor
distraught world. Over the whole globe millions are looking forward to that
one day when strife can be forgotten, when it will be remembered that all
human beings, even the least are loved by God, when men will hope for the
coming of the Prince of Peace as they never hoped before.

But there is another world which is not poor. Neither is it distraught. It
is the world of Alcoholics Anonymous, where thousands dwell happily and
secure. Secure because each of us, in his own way, knows a greater power who
is love, who is just, and who can be trusted.

Nor can men and women of AA ever forget that only through suffering did they
find enough humility to enter the portals of that New World.

How privileged we are to understand so well the divine paradox

. that strength rises from weakness,

. that humiliation goes before resurrection;

. that pain is not only the price but the very touchstone of
spiritual rebirth.

Knowing it's full worth and purpose, we can no longer fear adversity, we
have found prosperity where there was poverty, peace and joy have sprung out
of the very midst of chaos.

Great indeed, our blessings!

And so -- Merry Christmas to you all -- from the Trustees, from Bobbie and
from Lois and me.

Bill Wilson

Tip of the hat to AJ.