paulokes--
I believe what you say. The problem, which remains to be solved, is that we are taught the program by the fellowship. The BB does not explain in any practical way how to do any step before Step 4. It says what they are, but how to do them is left to sponsors to explain.
And anyone coming into recovery cannot distinguish what they hear in the rooms from what the program is. And even if they could, what difference would it make? They cannot do the program by themselves, can they? They are stuck with the people available to them as guides.
I am more sympathetic to your interpretation of the program, but many I know from the rooms would say you are advocating an easier softer way, that the program demands change in every aspect of life, and that what you describe is abstinence rather than recovery.
And in real life, the people like them edge out people like you from the program. I have seen this happen over and over again. I myself got edged out.
I wish I had a solution.