Originally Posted by
Rowan 
I'm really glad that you started this thread, Chiynita. I go to AA and subscribe to a HP and all that, but there isn't often a tangible enough 'connection' to convince me. You had mentioned NA members banging out cliches like zombies, and that resonated with me. I cannot stand when I ask a question and am given a slogan or saying in response.
Rowan
This was an issue for me, as well. I had valid questions and invariably would end up steered over to speak with a highly respected old-timer, only to hear something like "Keep the plug in the jug and keep coming to meetings" or "let go and let god". Eventually I was told I was just being "too smart" and had to dumb myself up or something to "get" the program. Honestly, I felt like there was a secret code and I wasn't able to crack it. I never felt I belonged. I'm glad there are alternatives. With that said, I know that AA has done wonders for many folks for whom everything else failed. I just never fit in.