Principles


From The Doctor’s Opinion, written by Dr. William D. Silkworth in the book “Alcoholics Anonymous”

“What is the solution? Perhaps I can best answer this by relating one of my experiences.

About one year prior to this experience a man was brought in to be treated for chronic alcoholism. He had but partially recovered from a gastric hemorrhage and seemed to be a case of pathological mental deterioration. He had lost everything worthwhile in life and was only living, one might say, to drink. He frankly admitted and believed that for him there was no hope. Following the elimination of alcohol, there was found to be no permanent brain injury. He accepted the plan outlined in this book. One year later he called to see me, and I experienced a very strange sensation. I knew the man by name, and partly recognized his features, but there all resemblance ended. From a trembling, despairing, nervous wreck, had emerged a man brimming over with self-reliance and contentment. I talked with him for some time, but was not able to bring myself to feel that I had known him before. To me he was a stranger, and so he left me. A long time has passed with no return to alcohol.”

Contentment? A long time has passed with no return to alcohol? How long has it been since you felt – Happy? And didn’t have to drink to “feel” happy?

You’re dam* right there’s HOPE!

This is really something to be thankful for! I appreciate it

If anyone has the opportunity to read this before I have the opportunity to begin working at it, be prepared for a discussion of the Twelve Steps, Twelve Traditions and The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous.

The Answers Are In The Da** Book – an oldtimer taught me, and then he told me to pass them on, so I’ll try my best and we’ll go from there…

Have a truly wonderful day and thank you Matt and gang!

Mark