Apparently, like you, I have thought a lot about that awesome thread that cut loose over the weekend...
Quote:
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"We have concluded to publish an anonymous volume setting forth the problem as we see it. We shall bring to the task our combined experience and knowledge. This should suggest a useful program for anyone concerned with a drinking problem."
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This is, I think,
in my opinion, consistent with the overall tone of the rest of the Big Book. While there was discussion about "hard drinker" and "potential alcoholic" vs. the "real alcoholic" in the Big Book, I don't think the Big Book overtly sought to exclude the hard drinker or potential alcoholic from AA....
In my opinion, from what I've read in the 12 and 12, the founders of AA might have been pleased if "potential" or "early" alcoholics were to be spared a lower bottom, while they 'still had a car in the garage' and a family and job.
I don't think that this means that AA should go out and raise peoples bottoms, no no no!!! Perhaps, though, we shouldn't be so concerned about the differential of "hard drinker" (whose life has become unmanageable - court, DUI, divorce, whatever) and "real alcoholic".
Nice post McGowdog. While I don't have as much to offer as some, I get a whole lot out of these discussions. They may annoy some, but for me, these discussions have had profound impact...
Mark