I am a member of AA, and it works well for me..but not by itself. I require my spiriutality (non-god type) and also I think SR.
AA in my area is very open and I actually have no problem with the powerlessness concept. I guess cause my stubornly fighting the bottle just didn't work for me. Long story and i'm on lunch...gotta go soon.
Anyhow...guess i just find that even when i disagree with some people in AA, it helps me to understand what i do believe. And i have been accepted. And even the godless steps have added to my ablility to not drink or use.
I think the whole recovery thing is about simply diligently seeking and finding what works for us and supporting others to find their own ways to stay sober as well.
People seem key to my ability to stay sober....compasion.