The Tremendous Fact

"The tremendous fact for every one of us is that we have discovered a common solution.  We who have found this solution to our alcoholic problem, who are properly armed with the facts about ourselves, can generally win the entire confidence of another alcoholic.  We who are making the approach to new prospects have had the same difficulty they have had.  We obviously know what we are talking about.  Our whole deportment shouts at new prospects that we are people with a real answer."  Big Book, 'There is a Solution,' P. 18.

If you're unsure if you're an alcoholic ask yourself this question: "Have I ever been to, or am I now in, a meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous?"  If you can answer yes to either of those posits, especially if you're sitting in a meeting discussing this very topic, you're an alcoholic.

People who don't have a problem with alcohol don't wonder if they have a problem with alcohol.

There are many, many reasons not to pray.  Please keep these reasons to yourself.  We've heard them all.  No need to repeat them.  We know that you can't "prove" there's a God.  We are aware that the world is full of sickness, death, cruelty, injustice, injured puppies, lost championships, and band breakups.  We don't know why these things exist.  We believe it isn't our business to know, that the answers may only be in the mind of God . . . and we're aware of the irony in suggesting that people who are struggling with the idea of talking to God talk to God about why he won't let you know what He's up to.  We know that there are many unhappy lives that are the direct result of unfortunate birth and uncontrollable circumstances.  We know all this.

"There is a direct linkage among self-examination, meditation, and prayer.  Taken separately, these practices can bring much relief and benefit."  12&12, Step Eleven, P. 98.

I heard a guy say this about his ability to hold a conversation with another person.  He was referring to his own though process: "Hurry up and finish what you're saying so that I can talk."  Man, a dude of my type.