I haven't been to an AA meeting in nearly 3 years. I got sober in AA, but left after 2 years. So 2 years sober in AA and 3 years sober without it. I am not an AA is the only way advocate, but it worked for me and it is all I know. I am a advocate for recovery because sobriety and recovery are to different things. I think working a program is a must, but I understand AA isn't for everyone.