Some individuals prefer having another human being (i.e.: "equal in the eyes of God") tell them if and when they are happy, joyous or free. If so, a different approach to recovery may produce what they want most. This Study Guide emphasizes the spirit of human equality as a concept which has been found consistently throughout the basic AA text for recovery from alcoholism.

In this regard, the reader may wish to consider the author of this Study Guide to be like "a sponsor". Someone, like a "safari guide" which you have chosen. Someone who is willing to point out what they have found in the basic text "Alcoholics Anonymous". Someone willing to take the reader on a guided tour of the basic text, while emphasizing points of interest from a personal perspective with a personal bias built into all comments which get made. Such an approach can be anticipated by anyone who continues reading this material.

Comments made by the author of this Study Guide are offered freely to alcoholics who are interested in them. Others may prefer taking a different approach to the basic text for recovery from alcoholism. The only important approach to sobriety for any alcoholic is the one that works best.

It is suggested the reader utilize whatever new knowledge is helpful to them, regardless of how or where it is acquired. If some of those ideas, emotions or attitudes have broader application in life than sobriety alone, then consider them a bonus benefit. They will be the power of new knowledge you will be free to use as you trudge the Road of Happy Destiny.

1. Basic text of "Alcoholics Anonymous" from frontispiece through end of Chapter 11 on page 164.
   
2. Appendices I - VI found in the back of the basic text.
   
3. AA Pamphlet (P-15) - "Questions & Answers on Sponsorship".

It is a common recommendation to newcomers in the AA Fellowship that they get a sponsor who will help them understand what is in the basic text for recovery. This Study Guide was written with that consideration in mind. If the reader desires to use the author "as a sponsor" it is worthwhile to establish a clear understanding of what that relationship is. Specifically, in regard to interpreting the basic text for recovery that is found in the first 164 pages of the AA Big Book.

Be assured that the author has made every effort to reconcile personal comments with the AA Big Book. While these and other outside views may provide value and usefulness, it is not recommended that any alcoholic bet their life and their freedom on something which they cannot confirm with AA’s basic text for successful recovery.

Consider anyone you select as "a sponsor" to be like a "safari guide" you have chosen to lead you through territory which is new for you but familiar to them. In the process of your journey, you will inescapably be exposed to the personality of your guide, as part of the process. What they consider of significance or importance may not have the same value to you.

When reading material in this Study Guide, be aware that understanding the personality of the author is not essential to your own recovery from alcoholism. However, improving conscious understanding of the principles of recovery is required for a vital spiritual experience. (Step 11).

Because no one has all the answers in AA, individual members share their experience, strength and hope with each other. No individual member is qualified to speak for AA as a whole. Therefore, when selecting "a sponsor" as "a safari guide" to lead you through the unfamiliar territory of the basic text, the use of your own intelligence will be helpful.

Any observations offered in this Study Guide by the author are personal. While they have worked well, it should be recognized that other views exist. The objective is to help the reader improve ways to become increasingly "happy, joyous and free". (pg 133). This occurs by enlarging a conscious understanding of "a power greater than yourself" as presented in AA’s basic text for recovery.

Different individuals seek different approaches to obtaining the fulfillment of their desires. (i.e.: "the answers to their prayers"). No one else really knows what they want for themselves. Because this author failed "mind reading" the alcoholic reader must make a decision concerning what new knowledge they are seeking for themselves. Part of that desire (syn: "prayer") may be answered from comments provided in this Study Guide. If so, utilize those ideas freely, and leave what is not suitable for someone who may find them helpful.

In AA, most established members have admitted their inability to successfully manage their own lives. Most also believe that, in the past, some "power, greater than themselves", had been lacking. (see pg 45). How they have tapped a source of power that has restored them to sanity may vary. The value of their choice will vary according to whomever renders judgment on their mental condition. (pg 23). Therefore the reader would be wise to utilize their own intelligence and exercise caution when making a selection of someone to provide them with "guidance".

Should an alcoholic desire "a sponsor" to run their life for them, they would require a "non-revocable Power of Attorney" in order to be effective. Remember that any alcoholic is always free to rebel, and they would likely try to outsmart "the sponsor" any time they disagreed.

Nonetheless, within AA, there still exists an ample supply of other alcoholics who are willing to run your life for you. The reason is that it is to their own personal best interests to share the secrets of their own success. The reader should be aware that any happiness, joy or freedom will be "their version" rather than your own. (see pg 133). Therefore, caution is recommended.

Professional help for alcoholics is available from the fields of medicine, religion and psychiatry. Each professional is a specialist who has been trained in their specific discipline. There is no challenge to their expertise or competence in their chosen field of study. However, recognize that alcoholism impacts every major area in the life of the alcoholic. Therefore, no single discipline embraces the entire problem.

Because of their limited effectiveness, the professional community has not been able to offer significant demonstrations of success in producing recoveries from alcoholism. Those which do usually have developed close connections with or reliance upon the AA program of recovery. However, the AA program is not allied nor affiliated with any of them. (AA Preamble & Appendix I - Tradition 6).

This author believes that it is difficult, if not impossible, to maintain that strong emotional intensity over any extended period of time. Eventually the intelligence of the alcoholic and the reality of life, on life’s terms, will interject to disrupt that high emotional pitch. Then the emotional pendulum swings to the depths of depression and despair.

Accordingly, when considering any religious or other professional approach to recovery from alcoholism, it is recommended that the interested alcoholic apply an old familiar nursery rhyme by asking:

This is considered an intelligent request, before spending substantial amounts of time and money on a solution. First consider the results being offered. Then decide if those results are what you want for yourself.

In San Francisco, California in May 1951 the surviving co-founder of AA related his earlier encounter with the John D. Rockefeller Foundation to obtain financing for facilities to deal with recovery from alcoholism. The man, who had provided much money for humanitarian purposes, wisely declined saying:

Human nature has changed little since then. Money, power and prestige can be an alluring diversion from the primary purpose of Alcoholics Anonymous. With the tradition of being self-supporting, AA escapes those distractions from recovery produced by the allure of "other people’s money".

The "blind acceptance" that a "close minded belief" a particular religious concept of God alone is sufficient to produce recovery from alcoholism is yet another distraction. While many religions may offer useful ideas, emotions and attitudes about life, on life’s terms, none is complete. Many newcomers have difficulty with this when seeking to improve understanding of "a power greater than ourselves". (see pgs 12, 23, 27, 42, 45, 53, 55, 59, 68, 95, 164 & Appendix II).

Be aware there is no "Official God Club" for AA. There is no difference between a Buddhist hangover and a Christian hangover. The reasons why AA has not stamped itself as a "Christian movement" are clearly defined in the writings of AA’s co-founder. Some specific comments can be located on page 34 of the AA publication "As Bill Sees It". To avoid emotional confusion between the objectives of AA and "other outside activities" it is recommended those comments be read with an open mind.

Individual AA members frequently comment on what is in the basic text for recovery. Before relying upon "what they say", it is useful to consider "why they say it". Those statements may not be correct, and are still only personal interpretations which sometimes are inaccurate. If it is important, then check it out first with the basic text and decide if it means the same to you.

There can be a difference between what the text says, and a personal belief of what the text means. Because AA accepts anyone, who claims to have a desire to stop drinking, your own intelligence will confirm that you are apt to find a wide variety of people in any AA meeting. Unless you know precisely what is and is not included in AA’s basic text for recovery there is no intelligent means of separating a solid foundation for recovery from the personal views of individual members.

Where "Sponsorship" is concerned, this author suggests that you first read AA’s basic text for recovery. (Pages 1 - 164). Then read the world-wide experience of AA set forth in the pamphlet "Questions and Answers on Sponsorship" (P-15). One provides the "minimum essential requirements for recovery" from alcoholism. The other contains

a variety of different approaches which will be helpful in selecting the kind of sponsor you want for yourself.

Before blindly selecting someone you wish to label as "your sponsor", this author makes the following suggestions and recommendations:

1. Get a personal copy of the basic text "Alcoholics Anonymous" to highlight comments about "Sponsorship"..
   
2. Open your book to the Frontispiece and highlight the portion that reads:
   
   "How Many Thousands of Men and Women
   Have Recovered from Alcoholism"
   
3. Underline the word "Recovered".
   
4. Read the basic text (through page 164) and carefully highlight each and every comment on "sponsorship" so you will know, with certainty, what is and is not contained in the basic text for recovery.
   
5. Review the AA pamphlet noting the various approaches to "sponsorship" and decide what kind of a sponsor you want.

This Study Guide can serve "as a sponsor" to walk you through some things found by the author, within the basic text. The reader is welcomed and encouraged to do so. Like a "safari guide" this author will point out some areas considered worth noting during your journey. They reflect the value judgment of the author. You may or may not place the same value or importance on what you are being shown.

It is inescapable that you will be exposed to the personality of the person you choose to be "your sponsor". Be aware that agreement with their personality is not essential for your recovery. Acceptance of the principles of recovery in AA is indispensable. (Appendix I - Tradition 12 & Appendix II).

Most members of AA are willing, honest and open minded about their desire to be happy, joyous and free. (see pg 133). Most alcoholics are willing to "trade up" to something better if it can be intelligently established that it is an improvement. (see Step 11). Therefore, if you believe that your own "success story" already has elements of value to others, then sharing that new knowledge may have mutual value and usefulness. (pg 77).

Hopefully there will be some personal enrichment gained from use of this Study Guide of the AA basic text for recovery. The reader is encouraged to accept, utilize and share anything which provides value in the personal recovery process for any alcoholic. It is being freely offered for that purpose.

Just remember that what is offered here comes only from a single member of AA. (see Forward to First Edition). And, never forget that it is your own choice to accept or

reject the observations of any other individual. It is the use of your own intelligence which decides what has validity and is acceptable for you.

This author suggests your own successful methods for recovery be offered to others "cafeteria style" with the recommendation that they "take what they like and leave the rest". Not everyone is able to use the same information effectively in the same manner. The only real measure of value of any approach to sobriety is in how well the information works for the individual alcoholic seeking recovery. As equals, there is always more to be learned. (pgs 53 & 68).

When this "Study Guide of the AA Big Book" was prepared, the author anticipated different degrees of interest by readers. The material is primarily intended for those individual members of AA who, like the author, have difficulty intelligently reconciling what they find in AA’s basic text with various religious concepts of "a power greater than ourselves".

The purpose of this Study Guide is to provide those members with any value they can obtain from a half-century of experience in AA by this author. The reader is encouraged to take what they can utilize and leave the rest for anyone else who may find it has value in their recovery from alcoholism..

Recognizably, there will be readers who take a more casual view of both the basic text of AA and this Study Guide material. Some portions may either be accepted or rejected according to the personal belief system of the reader. A recommendation is made that they freely avail themselves of what is offered, with the open minded recognition that others may find different value in the perspective of the author.

The comments in this Study Guide reflect the experience, strength and hope of one single member with a desire to be of service and usefulness. (pg 77). Other views exist. They should be given equal consideration in the light of the intelligence which the reader can find within themselves. (see pg 55).

For the serious student of the AA Big Book, what follows are some recommendations from the author of this Study Guide in the approach to take when utilizing this supplemental material.

1. Read the book "Alcoholics Anonymous" from the frontispiece through the end of Chapter 11 ("A VISION FOR YOU" pg 164). Then read the Appendices in the back of the book. The personal stories reflect how different alcoholics have utilized the principles of AA in their recovery.
   
2. Scan through the Study Guide material without paying particular attention to the references provided to specific pages of the basic text. Read the Study Guide to obtain the general perspective of the author The parenthetical page references are intended to provide confirmation from the basic text of specific points being made.
   
3. Review AA pamphlet "Questions and Answers on Sponsorship" (P15) plus the section "Comments on Sponsorship" provided in this Study Guide. Decide if you desire to have the author of this Study Guide walk you through the basic text. If so, the author will be providing a viewpoint, as a single member of AA, which goes beyond the limits of traditional religious belief systems. (see Appendix II).
   
4. Those who wish to avoid being emotionally disturbed by exposure to new knowledge are recommended to set all of this material aside now. This avoidance of reality will delay having your established belief system challenged by inherent intelligence. (see pg 55). Alcoholics who are sufficiently open minded to consider "all spiritual concepts" in their recovery are recommended to continue in the following manner. (see Appendix II).
   
5. Use this Study Guide of the AA Big Book as if the author were "a sponsor in print" who, like "a safari guide" is taking you on a conducted tour of the basic text. Each individual section is a single adventure. One where "your chosen guide" will point out various items considered to be of potential interest. Over the entire journey through the basic text, there will inescapably be frequent repetition of pertinent points which this author believes are important. Other "guides" may emphasize other elements found in the basic text. With an open mind, give consideration to them all.
   
6. The serious student of the basic text of AA is encouraged to first read each individual section rapidly. Then return to the beginning of the section and check the parenthetical page references for further support to each point made in the Study Guide. Consider the basic text "Alcoholics Anonymous" as the authority on recovery, and view any comments made by the author of the Study Guide from that perspective. Use your own intelligence to confirm or reject the validity of any ideas, emotions or attitudes which have been presented for consideration.
   
7. Do not blindly accept the views of the author, or of any other individual member of AA as being authoritative. First confirm what others tell you with the basic text and your own intelligence. Unless your own interpretation of the basic text is clear, it is well to challenge "anything you are told about the basic text". See if it will stand up to the light of intelligent examination. Reality is what it is without regard to the different beliefs of individual alcoholics.
   
8. Where questions still remain concerning the comments provided in any section of the Study Guide, it is recommended that they be discussed with a wide variety of other members of the AA Fellowship to obtain different perspectives. At some point the serious student of the AA Big Book will make a decision as to what they accept or reject as the ideas, emotions and attitude to guide their own life. (see pg 27).
   
9. Proceed, at your own pace, through the entire Study Guide, giving consideration to each section. Discuss your questions with others, either privately or in group discussions. Arrive at your own conclusions concerning your personal relationship with "a power greater than ourselves". (see pg 12). Recognize that any "second hand versions" reflect the beliefs of other individuals, developed at other times, and other places for other reasons. (see pgs 42, 86 & 95).
   
10. Recognize that "the Great Reality" of life, on life’s terms is not negotiable. Continue to enlarge and improve your own conscious recognition and understanding that "what is, is; and what is not the Great Reality" will become life on life’s terms. (Step 11). Mentally prepare yourself to survive the certain trials and low spots ahead of your own journey through unknown areas of life you do not yet understand. (see pgs 14-15, 35, 42, 129, 164, Step 11 & Appendix II).
    
11. Challenge your own belief system to determine if "what you believe" is a principle, which applies to any alcoholic, anyplace, and at any time. If there are exceptions, consider that your belief reflects your "personal preference" and defines your personality. (see Appendix I - Tradition 12).
    
12. Share freely of what you find with others who willingly accept whatever new knowledge has enriched your own happiness, joy and freedom. (see pgs 89 & 133).

* * * * *

Any autobiographical comments can quickly become "a premature obituary" and scarcely be labeled as "an objective view of the individual". Such must be the case for this portion of the author’s Study Guide of the AA basic text for recovery from alcoholism.

Countless thousands of men and women have recovered from a once seemingly hopeless condition called "alcoholism". With the possible exception that each individual recovery was "a miracle" because something happened which "was once believed could not happen", any experience of this author is now neither unusual nor particularly noteworthy.

Similar experiences of recovery are readily available in other personal stories which follow the basic text for recovery. Like all others, the journey of this author, as an alcoholic, began with birth and will end with death. There is no place for dispute of human equality on that fact of life.

The only significance of that journey is in how much conscious awareness of the Great Reality was developed of life, on life’s terms. It is the experience, strength and hope of a single individual. What is offered here was acquired by a careful study of the AA basic text for recovery from alcoholism. That is the essence of this writing, and all else is incidental. Any value it may have will be found from viewing the AA basic text of recovery through the eyes of this author.

This Study Guide material was written for those alcoholics who are seeking answers.

Other alcoholics experience similar difficulties. This Study Guide is part of a continuing an effort "to be of maximum service to God and the people about us". (see pgs 12, 55, & 77). It is not intended as "the answer to recovery" for everyone. However, it is an available option for those who can use "the experience, strength and hope" of another alcoholic to enlarge their own spiritual life. (pgs 14-15).

Many alcoholics who come to AA experience sudden and dramatic spiritual experiences or religious conversions, however most do not. The material in this Study Guide is directed to those seeking "the educational variety of a spiritual awakening" which occurs gradually, over a period of time. Of necessity, there is a requirement for a mental attitude of "willingness, honesty and open mindedness" when considering different ideas, emotions and attitudes without contempt, prior to investigation. (see Appendix II - Spiritual Experience).

The author of this Study Guide is offering, what may be awareness of new knowledge for some. It is intended for alcoholics seeking a spiritual awakening to the reality of their relationship to life, on life’s terms. Only the individual reader can determine if any portion has value and usefulness in their own recovery.

The journey of this author in sobriety has included a wide range of life styles spread over a large portion of the planet. The similarities of alcoholics in different cultures is amazing. They cut across the boundaries which otherwise would separate human beings from each other. And, so does the AA program of recovery. It can and does produce recovery when it is not being blocked by close minded members attempting to force the AA program to fit into "their beliefs about how life should be".

This alcoholic has participated as AA has crossed racial barriers of the ‘50’s in the United States and was able to override the nationalistic attitudes between recently warring Europeans during that same period. Attitudes about alcoholism in West Germany, once were determined by their Catholic or Protestant faith and were overcome by alcoholics seeking recovery in AA. The political walls separating Western Europe from the eastern block and Russia were penetrated by AA in correspondence. Alcoholics in the Far East with religious and cultural attitudes far different from those where AA began, have embraced recovery in AA without abandoning their own unique customs.

As a result of direct experience, this author has reached a conclusion about AA, and the program of recovery outlined in the basic text.

This attitude is being reflected by the author in this "Study Guide of the AA Big Book". Local or regional attitudes may be important, however that which has universal application is more important. (see pgs 53 & 68).

The way any alcoholic perceives themselves, and their relationship to life, on life’s terms, becomes a determining factor in what they choose as actions. (see pg. 27). Each individual has a set of priorities and values. (see pg. 55). This author is no exception.

The priorities of what an individual will or will not do, and when they will do it becomes their moral inventory". That belief system determines the choices of actions made by each and every alcoholic. It reflects their "fundamental idea of God" and is only found within each individual. (see pg. 55).

How an alcoholic "sees themselves" is critical to the choices they make. This was dramatically illustrated by a young woman speaking to a large AA gathering in San Diego. She came from a predominately Hispanic community with a strict code of well defined ethnic, cultural and religious values. Her simple but powerful comment concerning her own recovery was:

This author has been and still is many things which are used to separate and categorize individuals. What is important here is that "I am an alcoholic".

Placing "a label of alcoholism" on any individual implies having some idea of what that is. Those ideas can, will and do vary according to whom, when and where you ask about them. Social, political, religious and legal attitudes will vary according to the "local tribal customs" which are currently in effect. Because those views are constantly undergoing changes, any effort to produce stability requires seeking out whatever "principles" have universal application "common to any alcoholic, anyplace at any time".

Such was the case for this author. Successful recovery does have "one single requirement" which can only be determined by the individual alcoholic. It is the requirement that they develop and maintain a simple desire. One which takes priority precedence over all other desires, and thereby constitutes a fair definition of being "their prayer". Something no one else can do for them. On a daily basis, it is the dominant desire (i.e. "prayer") to:

This author made that decision in 1951, and has continued to seek improvements ever since. From that free choice all else follows.

Any problems which followed have all revolved around the lack of sufficient new knowledge to cooperate with the Great Reality of life, on life’s terms. This author did not know how. No human power had all the answers to all questions. However, it was possible to seek improvement by consciously enlarging understanding of life, on life’s terms.

This required abandoning "old ideas" and accepting "new knowledge". To do so it was essential to displace and rearrange the ideas, emotions and attitudes which had been guiding life activities. The indispensable requirement was a mental attitude of willingness, honesty and open mindedness.

The AA basic text of recovery has provided guidance on how to achieve that personality change, sufficient to produce recovery from alcoholism.

Recovery, from a once seemingly hopeless state of mind and body is and has been the dominant desire of the author. It has included a continuing priority to move into this life rather than to seek oblivion - be it recreational or permanent.

This author believes that "the Great Reality" is an intelligent definition for that three letter word "God". In the process of seeking improved understanding, there has been acquired a constant flow of new knowledge about how to personally cooperate with all life on life’s terms. (see Step 11). The need for new knowledge has constantly changed as conditions have changed. For example:

The only life, reality, or "God" this author is able to understand is that which is being experienced during "this lifetime". It is increasingly self-evident that there is approaching a point where this author will become "an expert authority on any next life". Until then, my beliefs about what comes next are equally as valid as those of any other living human being.

The author of this Study Guide of the AA basic text of recovery from alcoholism has chosen to freely share his personal experience, strength and hope with those alcoholics who can willingly accept whatever value and usefulness it might have in their own recovery process. If it does have any continuing value, then this author will have achieved "a life after death".

Where that help enables some other alcoholics be more happy, joyous and free, then it will be in harmony with "what God wants for an alcoholic". (see pg. 133). Those alcoholics with different belief systems are encouraged to put forth similar effort to clarify their own thinking for the benefit of other alcoholics who may want what they have discovered in the basic text of AA.

In seeking to improve a conscious understanding of life, on life’s terms, this author discovered an inability to intelligently accept the ideas, emotions and attitudes offered as "the last word" by spokesmen for traditional religious concepts of "a power greater than ourselves". To "survive the certain trials and low spots ahead" it was imperative for this alcoholic to follow the novel idea presented at the beginning of AA and ask myself "Why don’t you choose your own conception of God?". (pgs 12 & 14-15). There was no intelligent reason not to do so if I believed in my own equality in the eyes of my creator.

What others believed was what impacted their lives. What I believed would impact my own. That was equitable and fair, on life’s terms.

My own priority was recovery now - during this lifetime. Any subsequent experience was of secondary importance. Taking a clue from the AA Slogans, about dealing with "First Things First", this author made a decision believed to be an intelligent one. It was to focus effort, thought and concentration upon living

The result of that decision was relief from the fear, anger and guilt which had come from personal inability to live up to the expectations and demands of people claiming to have direct and superior connections to "the source of all knowledge and power". That low self-esteem gradually was replaced by a belief in human equality in the eyes of whatever is "the creative source of all life".

It comes as "the daily gift of life" where all and everything in an infinite universe is made available. It is up to the individual to learn to either accept or reject it.

It became apparent that absolutely everything required for any human being to be happy, joyous and free in this life is already being provided with the daily reprieve from oblivion. Having also been provided with brains to use, and the power of choice, it is a personal decision as to what portion of an infinite universe to seek, and then accept or reject. (pg. 86). All and everything which is "God" is already there to be claimed, if the alcoholic knows how to claim it. (pg. 53). Some have acquired that new knowledge, while others try to hold on to their old ideas.

This awareness of reality provided an intelligent concept of "a loving God" which wanted me to be "happy, joyous and free". (pg. 133). Instead of being "a victim" it is the responsibility of the individual to determine what they desire to have for themselves. That "prayer" then determines what they choose to do. The results are produced "on life’s terms".

The personal problem of this author is continuing to be willing, honest and open minded enough to let go of my old ideas of how I believe life is, and learn to accept new knowledge of "the Great Reality" of life, on life’s terms. Such mental effort to "enlarge a spiritual life" has proven to be a never-ending process sufficient for the entire journey during this lifetime. Thus far, no one has intelligently established themselves as being an authority on any future experience.

It is believed that other alcoholics, have had similar difficulties with the "second hand moral belief systems of traditional religions". Some may be interested in seeking a similar approach to recovery from alcoholism. If so, they are invited to freely partake of any useful material being offered in this Study Guide of the AA Big Book.

Read: From Front Cover through to "THE DOCTOR’S OPINION".

1. Open the front cover. If your book is new, you will note the very first page is blank. For the newcomer to AA, a blank page has been suggested as an indication of your personal knowledge of successful recovery from alcoholism.

For the established member, a blank page may indicate your ability to use new knowledge before you have it.

2. The next page contains the title selected for the book, and became the familiar name of the fellowship "Alcoholics Anonymous"

At the time of first publication, there was a severe social stigma attached to being identified as alcoholic. At that time, alcoholism was considered by most of society to be both hopeless and incurable. Anonymity, as an alcoholic, was a matter of considerable importance to the earlier members. The principle of anonymity continues to be of major significance. Some of the reasons for emphasis have changed. An article "Why Alcoholics Anonymous is anonymous" can be found in the pamphlet "AA Traditions and How They Developed".

3. The next page lists Other Books, published by AA World Services, Inc. These provide information about Alcoholics Anonymous, and are "official AA literature".

Other printed material has been extremely helpful to some AA members for spiritual enlightenment, depending upon their geographical location. The Bhagavad-Gita, the Koran, the Holy Bible, and other "religious writings" are often

considered to contain authoritative definitions of the word "God". Use of such material is a matter of individual preference and personal belief.

The program of Alcoholics Anonymous clearly defines itself as not wishing to engage in any controversy. By the exclusion of religious ideas of God, all who suffer from alcoholism may be included in AA without any requirement for accepting a particular concept of God. (see pg 12). Because different religious belief systems are frequently controversial, they are clearly outside of the realm of the AA program. By contrast, it is strictly a matter of personal preference as to what any alcoholic chooses to believe about "a Power greater than themselves".

4. Frontispiece, The book title page:

In addition to the title "Alcoholics Anonymous", this page indicates that the book is "the story of how many thousands of men and women have recovered from alcoholism". Your attention is directed to the use of the word "recovered".

Alcoholism, was once considered "a hopeless state of mind and body" from which recovery was not believed possible. Be aware that the word "recovered" is not synonymous with the word "cured". This author suggests that, when the condition of alcoholism is no longer "hopeless", an individual has "recovered". That they are not "cured" is adequately dealt with in "THE DOCTOR’S OPINION" and Chapter 3.

The words THIRD EDITION in your present book indicate two previous publishing’s. As of this writing, a "Fourth Edition" is being prepared. It is anticipated that page references for Chapters 1 through 11 will remain the same. Therefore, page referrals in this Study Guide are consistent with the Third Edition. Hopefully they will also be consistent with the new edition scheduled for release early in the new millennium.

Some page and format changes were made after initial publication of the FIRST EDITION in 1939, but the basic text remains the same. The "Forward" to both the first and second editions have been included in the THIRD EDITION for information. It is suggested they be reviewed. There has been growth and development within the AA Fellowship since the initial printing of the basic message of recovery from alcoholism. Personal stories of how different individuals have applied the AA program in their lives now reflect more recent experiences. It is anticipated that THE FOURTH EDITION will reflect similar changes to AA membership.

A circle, with a triangle appeared in earlier copies of the THIRD EDITION. It once was a symbol used to identify "official literature" of AA.

The three sides of the triangle, "Unity, Recovery, & Service", were sometimes thought of like "a three legged milk stool", with a need for balance between them. Though popular with many members, it became apparent that AA did not have any valid claim to the exclusive use of that symbol for AA literature. The symbol was also being utilized by other activities for other purposes. Subsequently, the "circle and triangle" to identify "official AA literature" was discontinued.

Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc., New York City, indicates the corporate entity holding legal title to the AA Big Book. This became modified with the passage of time.

5. The reverse side of the Frontispiece page contains data on copyright dates, and printings.

6. The next pages provide the table of contents for the entire book.

7. The Preface is self-explanatory. It introduces the THIRD EDITION which will likely be replaced when the next edition is published.

8. The Foreword To First Edition, states the objective for publishing the original textbook for recovery from alcoholism.

9. The FORWORD TO SECOND EDITION clarifies that:

10. The FORWORD TO THIRD EDITION - indicates the experience that the AA program has transcended traditional barriers of language, culture and other obstacles which frequently separate people from each other. That unity of action by uniquely individual human beings with the problem of alcoholism continues to date.

At the time this endorsement was written on AA’s methods for recovery from alcoholism, the "unorthodox approach" was often believed to be "unscientific". Doctor William D. Silkworth, MD placed his professional reputation and credibility on the line with his support for the results being produced. Today, some of that viewpoint continues, in some medical circles. However, to their professional embarrassment, it is difficult to argue with or duplicate the success produced by those who follow the AA program of recovery from alcoholism.

One of the more significant observations made in THE DOCTOR’S OPINION is that:

Despite efforts by the professional community, to find "a medical cure", that physiological condition still remains a valid difference between "normal drinkers" and those who drink "as alcoholics".

In terms of the professional community finding a "medical solution" to the ever-present physical problems of alcoholism, the comment made was that:

That observation was provided as part of THE DOCTOR’S OPINION in 1939. It has not yet been surpassed by any other approach to recovery.

While much more has been learned, his observation of that one common denominator that physiologically separates the alcoholic from others, is as valid today as it ever was. In regard to the various types of individuals afflicted he observed:

The doctor closes his comments with personal observations of recovery by an alcoholic who became "sold" on the ideas presented in the basic text of "Alcoholics Anonymous".

The ideas, provided in the basic textbook for AA, work now as well as they did in 1939. They reflect some universal principles which function successfully for anyone, anyplace, at any time. The resulting recoveries demonstrated by the AA approach to recovery from alcoholism are unsurpassed.

This success story has resulted in those same principles being copied and used in dealing with "problems other than alcoholism". While those problems are beyond the scope of the AA program, any individual, seriously interested in the recovery process, is encouraged to carefully study the book "Alcoholics Anonymous". Hopefully, this Study Guide will be useful in recognizing some of what that book contains.

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Comments provided here are intended to be viewed as coming from one single established member of AA. Accordingly, it is recommended that written material provided by AA General Services Offices always be given priority consideration for accuracy. This is the source of "the best information available about AA". Other interpretations, specifically including this Study Guide, may have usefulness in "filling in gaps" or answering other questions. Take what you can use and leave the rest.

Whenever any member of AA shares their view and understanding of the program of recovery in AA, it is unavoidable that their view will reflect any errors which exist within their own mind. (see pg 23). Any reader interested in the historical background of AA will find numerous publications are available from the General Service Office of Alcoholics Anonymous. Complete order forms are available from them at Box 459, Grand Central Station, New York, N.Y 10163.

The reader should clearly understand that the comments provided in this Study Guide are not an official interpretation of AA’s basic text for recovery from alcoholism. Instead, they provide the interested individual with the viewpoint of only one single member of AA. (see Foreword to First Edition).

This Study Guide was specifically prepared as an offering to only those members who have difficulty reconciling that emotionally volatile "three-letter word God" with traditional religious concepts. Hopefully, the reader will use whatever open-minded intelligence they have available when giving consideration to comments offered by the author. (see Appendix II). With an educational variety of a spiritual experience it is possible that some of the ideas, emotions and attitudes which are guiding forces in life will be improved, enlarged and enriched. It has happened to other alcoholics, and could happen to you. (see pgs 12, 14-15, 42, 53, 55, 133, 164 & Appendix II).

The personal stories which follow the basic text for recovery indicate how different individuals have applied the principles of AA in their own lives. They are essentially "a speaker meeting in print". Their experience, strength and hope is able to be shared on a broader scale than would otherwise be possible. (review Foreword to First Edition).

The essential message of recovery from alcoholism is contained in the basic text for recovery which is provided in the first 11 chapters of the AA "Big Book" Alcoholics Anonymous. These chapters contain the minimum essential requirements for recovery from a "once seemingly hopeless state of mind and body". The personal stories which follow indicate that those principles have been applied by a wide range of individuals with a desire to stop drinking. They clearly establish the AA program will work for anyone who is capable of being honest with themselves.

Contrary to the pronouncements of some of AA’s more religious members:

Personal stories, which follow the basic text, indicate how various individuals applied the principles of AA in their personal life. They share, in a general way, what it was like before coming to AA, what happened to them, and what their lives were like when those stories were written.

Each personal story provides information on how alcoholics dealt with their own lives to produce changes. As the "AA message of recovery" reached more and more alcoholics, the personal stories, published in the first three editions changed to reflect the changing composition of AA membership. A forthcoming "Fourth Edition" will undoubtedly provide even more variations in how the AA program has been utilized.

NO INDIVIDUAL SPEAKS FOR AA AS A WHOLE.

All any AA member can do is to point out, what they have found in the basic text and clarify their own personal interpretation and application of that material. This specifically applies to any comments made by the author of this Study Guide.

Other views exist, and each member of AA is encouraged to share their personal view of the basic text with other interested alcoholics. The readers are encouraged to consider all viewpoints in the light of their own intelligence.

Regardless of common acceptance, it is recommended that any material, other than the AA basic text for recovery, be clearly identified. Obviously there are matters of religion, medicine, and philosophy which overlap in the problem of alcoholism. Because alcoholism impacts every one of those areas their respective approaches should be allowed to stand on their own merits.

It is recommended that the alcoholic reader allow the Fellowship of AA to stand on it’s own record of results in producing recoveries. Doing this without any demand that AA be incorporated into some other pre-established concept will reduce conflicts with religion, medicine and philosophies which produce different results.

In reading the personal stories, this author recommends that they be considered as "A Speaker-Meeting in Print". In earlier times, the wealth of information now available about alcoholism was not easily accessible to newcomers interested in the AA Fellowship. Therefore, efforts were made to provide the "experience, strength and hope" of a wide variety of AA members.

Some areas large enough to have "regular speaker meetings" strove to provide a contrast to emphasize personal differences. Speakers who were well educated were contrasted with semi-literate alcoholics, street-walkers were paired with socialites, atheists with devoutly religious, and the wealthy with impoverished ex-drunks. This enabled any newcomer to recognize and understand the problem of alcoholism cuts across all social barriers, and so does the AA solution. This helped them to clarify the universality of the problem, and their own place as being more ordinary than special. The need to conform to some pre-established standard was reduced as a result.

Personal stories still serve much of that same purpose. The first three editions of the "AA Big Book" provide an indication of the changes which occurred since AA began in the late 1930’s. At this early part of the 21st Century, membership in AA continues to grow, and a Fourth Edition will undoubtedly continue that trend.

As it was in the beginning, it is recommended that the reader

As with all else in this "Study Guide of the AA Big Book", the comments provided by the author are not intended as any official interpretation of any part of the AA program of recovery from alcoholism. The comments are strictly those of "a member of Alcoholics Anonymous". (see Forward to First Edition).

It is the clear understanding of this author that "no one speaks for AA as a whole". Similarly, all comments by any other member about the AA program are personal, individual and should be considered accordingly, except when endorsed by the AA General Services Office,

The Appendices I - V which are found in the back section of the basic text present the official position of AA on a variety of "outside issues". A careful study of "The AA Traditions", (Appendix I), will provide the reader with a definitive explanation both of "WHAT AA IS" and equally important "WHAT AA IS NOT".

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The "short form" of the AA Traditions is frequently read at meetings and provides a handy reminder of what AA has established as it’s primary purpose. This is more concisely stated by AA’s own definition of itself.

A careful study of "The Long Form" of "The AA Tradition" is strongly recommended. This will help to avoid diversion from what the AA program has been able to accomplish, with superior results over any other approach to the problem of alcoholism for the alcoholic.

The experience of this author, in over a half-century of active participation with AA activities in a large part of the world, is that those differences of race, religion, language, political philosophy, and ethic cultural values exist.

Differences tend to be divisive and create conflicts between ethnocentric groups. They tend to escalate in importance in areas where one group holds a dominate majority over smaller groups with an equal desire to get sober and stay sober. This frequently creates the impression that "if you are not doing it our way, you are doing it wrong!".

The Long Form:

"The Long Form of the AA Tradition" has always provided an equitable and fair resolution of any and all conflicts and differences disputed by groups within Alcoholics Anonymous. Therefore, a careful and thoughtful personal study of the "Traditions" is strongly recommended to any alcoholic seriously interested in their own sobriety and survival. This author cannot emphasize this single point strongly enough to convey it’s significance.

The candid view of this author is that the AA program is highly effective in dealing with it’s primary purpose. It is strong medicine for recovery from alcoholism. Regardless of how noble other objectives may be, by diluting the basic purpose of AA with "other considerations" reduces AA’s effectiveness and is a diversion from the one primary purpose which AA accomplishes with superior results to any other approach to recovery from alcoholism.

A "vital spiritual experience" appears to be one essential ingredient to recovery from alcoholism. Many alcoholics have erroneously assumed this required accepting "a conception of God" in the form of an established "second-hand belief system". Usually it gets provided by some self-appointed spokesman for one of the many different traditional religions. Fortunately, for all alcoholics, this is not the case. (see pgs 12, 27, 42, 95, 129, 164 & Appendix II ).

It is the understanding of this author that the AA program has provided a solution to alcoholism which is based upon universal acceptance of anyone with a desire to stop drinking. A careful reading of "The AA Tradition - (The Long Form)" will provide intelligent reasons why "conformity" is not required and can be in conflict with "universal acceptance of God as being everything". What is your choice to be? (pg. 53). Remember:

The solution to the specific problem of alcoholism, provided by AA, is still the most effective in terms of results, and it is difficult to argue with the success. Therefore it is counter-productive to dilute the effectiveness by attempting to incorporate it into the different primary objectives of many tradition religious belief systems. Those objectives are finite and limited to their own definitions of who and what they are. However, other pursuits can be freely retained by individual AA members once they reconcile what objective holds priority importance. (pg. 23).

The clearly defined path of action by AA provides for maintaining recovery from a once seemingly hopeless state of mind and body. (see pg 95). "Conformity to any particular concept of God" is not a requirement. (see pgs 12, 27). Accepting this fundamental approach can avoid much personal conflict while still drawing strength from "a power greater than ourselves".

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There appear to be two distinct varieties of "the vital spiritual experience" required for recovery from alcoholism. (see pg 27).

One is the "personality change, or religious experiences" in the nature of sudden and spectacular upheavals. These "transformations" though frequent, are by no means the rule.

Most "vital spiritual experiences" are of the "educational variety" because they develop over a period of time. (see Appendix II). Those differences in timing to accepting "a power greater than ourselves" create confusion for many newcomers to the AA program.

Many newcomers to AA, especially those who are not familiar with what is written in AA’s basic text for recovery, will get confused about a "fundamental idea of God" they can only find within themselves. (see pg 55). Instead of utilizing the brains God gave them, (pg 86), they continue to "hold on to old ideas" by reliance upon a "second-hand belief system" developed by some other person, at some other place, and at some other time, for some other reason.

Personal freedom of choice allows many newcomers to futilely attempt to force-fit an infinite source of power into their already established, but nonetheless finite belief system. The resulting frustrations work against the very thing they most desire, which is to "do God’s will" and be "happy, joyous and free". (see pg 133).

Some alcoholics even abandon the indispensable ingredient of "being honest with themselves" in order to gain the acceptance of an ethnocentric group with a limited belief system. This can be contrary to their own best interests when relying upon a source of power that wants them to be "happy, joyous and free". (see pgs 12, 23, 27, 42, 53, 55, 58, 68, 86, 95, 129, & 164).

With that freedom many abandon a genuine desire to "seek God" and learn how to be "happy, joyous and free". (i.e.: "God’s will" see pg. 133). Instead, they decide to "seek conformity with a second-hand version" created by some other equally fallible human mind. (see pgs 23, 42, & 60(b)).

Without dispute, there is much benefit to be gained from the precepts of many traditional religions. However, it is the belief of this author that there is infinitely more available. (see pg 68). What is your choice of priorities to be? (see pg 53).

AA recommends the acceptance of new ideas, emotions and attitudes as one way to acquire the vital spiritual experience required to displace and rearrange the guiding forces in the life of an alcoholic. (see pg 27). Those who accept the proposition that "God is everything or else He is nothing" will readily recognize that rejecting any part of reality is equivalent to "rejection of God".

Acceptance may require new knowledge and improved understanding of the Great Reality (i.e.: "God" pg. 55 & Step 11). There are others who will insist upon "special favoritism" over "all those who disagree with their belief system" thereby denying them human equality in "the eyes of their Creator".

Accordingly, this Study Guide attempts to point out some elements which may be helpful in developing new ideas, emotions and attitudes about that power. It is definitely not intended to be considered as "the last word" on any aspect of the AA recovery program.

APPENDIX III: "THE MEDICAL VIEW ON AA"

The principles which guide modern medical practices recognize individual differences in human beings. Nowhere are unique individual differences any more significant that when dealing with recovery from alcoholism. Why the differences exist may not be completely understood. However, accepting that they do exist is crucial to recovery for the individual alcoholic.

It is the belief of this author that any attempt to produce any "One Size Fits All" approach to recovery is doomed to failure if it omits recognition of physiological differences between alcoholics and social drinkers. Medical science already recognizes a wide variation in the body processes of different individuals. For example, some individuals absorb fluids from their stomach to their blood stream more rapidly than others. Some have differences in how equitably their bodies distribute what they have absorbed to various parts of the body. Others variations exist in how rapidly their body processes utilize and eliminate what they take in. Those differences apply to the infinitely variable supply of substances available to them as part of a daily diet.

Some understanding of DNA structure has enlarged the ability of the medical profession to deal with some of those differences. Other differences are less well recognized or understood. Recognizing the existence of those differences can be important to the extent that new knowledge is useful in providing relief from alcoholism.

What that is and why it does what it does, in the way it does it, is still beyond the realm of complete understanding by the medical profession. That is precisely the point. There is more to be understood. Seeking understanding of an infinite source of all new knowledge (i.e.: "God") is the essence of all scientific study.

Where traditional religions seek new knowledge only when it is compatible with their definitions of their group, science seeks new knowledge without any such limitations. Both contain some understanding, neither can intelligently claim to have "the answer to explain everything". The AA program readily accepts from either whatever produces desired results.

This author proposes that seeking more new knowledge is equivalent to seeking power to improve cooperation with the Ultimate Reality of life on life’s terms. Willingness, honesty and open mindedness are essential and indispensable ingredients. Scientific investigation is concerned with those principles which have equal application to anyone, at any place and at any time.

The AA program of recovery from alcoholism has transcended barriers which otherwise separate human beings from each other and indicates it is utilizing principles which have universal application. Some of those same principles were also discovered and incorporated into some religious belief systems. Unquestionably, there is more to be revealed.

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APPENDIX IV: "THE LASKER AWARD"

Now, over a half-century later, the value of Alcoholics Anonymous is still recognized as "a great venture in social pioneering which forged a new instrument for social action; a new therapy based on the kinship of common suffering; one having a vast potential for the myriad other ills of mankind.".

When the Lasker Award was first received, there was a significant decision made, which is believed to be crucial to the success of the AA program. This was the refusal of AA to accept the monetary award accompanying the trophy. While the trophy itself was accepted, the money from outside sources was respectfully declined. The absolute insistence upon being "self supporting through our own contributions" was considered crucial to the continued survival of the then budding fellowship. This was a decision made by alcoholics who had all too often relied upon financial support from "other people’s money".

The Lasker Award trophy remains a tribute to early AA members deciding to accept responsibility for their own actions and being willing to clean up the wreckage of their own past

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Anything less than total equality is a matter of personal judgment. Any personal judgment is based upon what the individual believes to be their personal relationship to that creative power. It is self-evident that this is a power which is greater than themselves.

The belief system of any individual may be one of superiority to others. Be it as an individual, or as the ethnocentric belief that "our group is superior to any other group". Whenever a belief in superiority is established, then equality is lost to that individual or group. A concept of "a power greater than ourselves" is impacted accordingly. (see pgs 12, 23, 27 42, 53, 55, 62, 68,86, 93-95,129,164 & Appendix II). Conflict is created with the decision to believe that "my concept of God is superior to your concept of God". Resolution of the conflict is found in "how well it works" rather than arguments of "how well it would work if only others would do it my way". What is your choice to be? (see pg. 53).

This author believes that, as children, anyone is capable of being taught to believe just about anything which the dominant adults in their life present to them. As they mature, their own minds are then free to accept or reject what they have been taught. (see pg. 23). This then becomes a power struggle over a matter of personal choice. The maturing child either accepts or rejects themselves, as equal human beings.

Eventually a belief system becomes a guiding force in life. (review pg 27). Unfortunately there are frequently errors which require correction. (review Appendix II). Almost any religious interpretation of "a power greater than ourselves" can be accommodated within the AA program. The alcoholic in AA seeks new knowledge from some infinite source which is all and everything in the Great Reality of life, on life’s terms. (see pgs 12, 23, 27, 42, 45, 53, 55, 68, 86, 95, 129, & 164). With most traditional religions, that same mental condition of open mindedness is not necessarily encouraged.

AA seeks to understand and cooperate with all of the Great Reality. Most religions attempt to define it and induce conformity to their limited concept. This, they do to the exclusion of anything outside of their own definition.

It is proposed here, that if any particular "religious conception of God" were really "the only valid path to recovery" then no alcoholic could or would ever recover without it. World-wide experience has indicated that any alcoholic can and many frequently do recover without conformity to any particular "idea of God". The inescapable fact still remains that, at the very beginning of AA, there was the suggestion made of:

That idea of mental freedom was presented and accepted. The success of utilizing that approach with alcoholics will speak for itself. Alcoholics Anonymous continues to cross the borders of diametrically opposed religious belief systems to produce successful results in recovery.

When following the AA program of recovery, the alcoholic is not expected to "throw out the baby with the bath water" and abandon their religious belief system. That which produces "God’s will for the alcoholic to be happy, joyous and free" (see pg 133) is obviously worth retaining. Whatever works does not require fixing. However, there is always room for improvement in how to cooperate with life, on life’s terms. No religious belief system relieves the alcoholic from the consequences of their own personal ignorance.

The power of necessary new knowledge comes from some "greater intelligence" which is the source of all knowledge and all power. The AA program offers each individual alcoholic a "tailor-made personalized approach to the reduction of their personal ignorance of reality". This is considered preferable to accepting on blind-faith the "second-hand belief system of traditional religions" which often have some other "primary purpose". Not everyone agrees with this observation.

For those alcoholics who desire to be happy, joyous and free in sobriety, they must decide if it is to be their own version or that of some other "second hand belief system". This author recommends that any alcoholic honestly seeking recovery to approach both religion and AA in the same manner.

That recommendation applies equally to any comments found in this Study Guide of AA’s basic text for recovery.

There is increased public awareness of Alcoholics Anonymous as an available method for recovery from alcoholism. With the increased speed of communication, alcoholics seeking recovery can more easily locate A.A. groups and meetings.

While each member is qualified to speak from their own personal viewpoint, as an individual, no member is qualified to speak for AA as a whole. That specifically includes the comments provided by the author of this Study Guide who is merely attempting to point out what one single member has found in the basic text of recovery. Hopefully it will be of value and usefulness to others who are seeking happiness, joy and freedom in their own recovery from a once seemingly hopeless state of mind and body. (pg 133).

READ: Chapter 1: BILL’S STORY - Pages 1 - 16.

This is the story of AA co-founder Bill W.

Because the focus of this Study Guide is upon spiritual considerations, anyone experiencing resistance to the word or idea of "God", may benefit from the approach, presented to him.

This is a fundamental approach to recovery. It has opened the door for recovery from alcoholism to all who suffer. Because conformity and agreement with any particular interpretation of the meaning of the word "God" has been excluded, the AA program has been able to transcend the finite limits of traditional religions. It also avoids the conflicting boundaries of a multitude of different religious beliefs.

Understanding the depth and weight of this message can be enhanced by referring to page 34 in the AA publication "As Bill See's It". The significance of the non-alliance of AA to any particular religion is officially clarified for all to see.

This is what co-founder Bill W. used, as a starting point. It is as valid for you as it was for him. As, with many, your own spiritual experience may be of "the educational variety", as referred to in Appendix II. Conformity is not and never has been required for recovery. (Tradition #3, - the long form).

You, the reader, have made a decision to consider the ideas, emotions and attitudes being presented by the author of this Study Guide. If so, consider them for their possible benefit to your own recovery process. From reading the Preface and Forward to the Study Guide you will probably have recognized some idea of the personal bias of the author,

If you were not offended, or did not reject it, then you likely continued and read "How To Use This Study Guide". If so, you discovered the concept of "Sponsorship" was addressed. Also, that there is a separate section in this Study Guide offering a viewpoint on that subject. (see Section A05). It includes possible implications to your own recovery. You would do well to read it before continuing.

The Forward to printings of the AA Big Book, preceding the Third Edition, provide the reader with a sense of the changes that have occurred, since the beginning of AA. That was a time when a handful of alcoholics discovered a solution to their seemingly hopeless state of mind and body. Changes continue to occur up to and including this present time. Placing the contents of the AA Big Book into the context in which it was written is significant. It is a step toward understanding the intent of what was written, when it was written, and why. As of this writing, a Fourth Edition is in process of being published.

The personal story of the co-founder of AA, is Chapter 1 - "BILL’S STORY ". It is well to recognize he was simply another human being. One fully equipped to fall into the pit of despair from his own alcoholism and to experience the fulfillment of recovery from that once seemingly hopeless state. If you allow yourself equality, as a human being, his message of recovery is and can always be available to you - if you want it.

This author's primary suggestion is to give priority to the message of recovery. The messenger, being a human being, is subject to human error. No individual has total awareness of that Ultimate Reality of Life which some refer to as "God". If you wish to disagree with the messenger, you will find areas for disagreement. However, there are also similarities. They are found in the message itself. It is a message which may contain useful information to enrich and improve the quality of your