TD>(DIATRIBE WARNING!)
WOW, is that an understatement!!!!!
TD>On that front AA has failed them because AA fails to adapt to
TD>it's changing membership.
TD>It fails because it has been proven that "Conference Approved"
TD>literature is horribly outdated in view of the current
TD>75% or more members that have used drugs in addition to
TD>the main focus of drinking.
TD>It fails because there are more minorities and women then ever before
TD>and yet the steps as written are tailor made for the upper crust
TD>"off the wagon wall street types" who had a wealthy upbringing
TD>and knew no abuse.
TD>It fails to meet the needs of people who have a dependency on
TD>other people, only to encourage MORE dependency on said
TD>Sponsor and a nameless god (Whom is invariably MALE and christian)
I guess you REALLY believe the AA program is a failure.  That does not
quite coincide with my experience but you are entitled to your opinion.
TD>Overall the organization as it stands should be torn down and built
TD>to reflect it's current membership... yet I know how New York
TD>will handle that...
Now some might call it name calling to say that you are not a supporter
of AA.  But after what I just read I just want to ask, "Are you a
supporter of AA"?  And then, if not a supporter of AA are you a
supporter of the 12 steps (that is the AA program of recovery)?
TD>"We have no official viewpoint..." and then drag that member into
TD>court...I know who it happened to...
A member was dragged to court by AA for only expressing his viewpoint?
I'd like to hear more about this.
My experience has been that no one has ever been tossed out of AA in the
20 years I have attended.  The only requirement for membership is a
desire to stop drinking.  If someone violates the traditions, they are
spoken to about it, but there is no procedure in place to "toss them
out" (or sue them for that matter).
I'm really quite disturbed at the percentage of people in this and other
Fido forums who appear eager tear down the program and start over.
Those who feel that way are free to do so.  Just call yourself something
a little different and start your own recovery program.
However as for me and the majority of my brothers and sisters in AA (and
GA for that matter), we'll keep the program just the way it is.  It has
worked miracles for hundreds of thousands of addicts for around 60
years.  Prior to that time there was no known recovery for alcoholism.
Studies show that although alcoholics now have several treatment options
(many of whom "stole" a lot of ideas from AA) AA is still the most
successful program available.
For that I am eternally grateful!!!!!!
Have a happy 24.
Bob P.
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