[RufusACanal]

“Rarely have we seen a person fail who has thoroughly followed our path. Those who do not recover are people who cannot or will not completely give themselves to this simple program, usually men and women who are constitutionally incapable of being honest with themselves. There are such unfortunates. They are not at fault; they seem to have been born that way. They are naturally incapable of grasping and developing a manner of living which demands rigorous honesty. Their chances are less than average.”

I started this thread with the opening paragraph from Chapter Five to illustrate how simple a program of recovery is, if the Alcoholic is capable of honesty. Of late, I have read a number of posts from members in the Twelve Step forum who have recently admitted a return to drinking. I applaud the honesty and welcome their renewed determination to follow our path. “Keep coming back” was a fixture on the wall of an AA Clubhouse I attended early in my journey. Not only is this a reminder to the still suffering Alcoholic but as well to the recovering Alcoholic; there is always a door open for the Alcoholic who has a desire to stop drinking.

How can a returning relapsed, recovering Alcoholic provide experience, strength and hope on Steps beyond the First if they cannot stay sober one day at a time? These displays of grandiosity and self-importance stretch my tolerance until I am reminded that a lesson is available for me if I so choose to listen and watch. I gain nothing from belittling anyone, especially the Drunk who cannot get honest. I do know that my energy and time are better spent with those who are willing to be honest rather than with those who know it all and who cannot stay sober. It is remarkable how the Drunk has all of the answers except the one that might save their life; staying sober, One Day at a Time.



First Edition reference of Chapter Five of the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous