PO Box 1980

I have been reading the Grapevine as part of my recovery from alcoholism for nearly twelve years, and I enjoy it very much. I especially like the letters that spark controversy and the letters of rebuttal. This is very healthy. Different opinions by recovering individuals further prove that we become thinking and feeling people as a result of admitting and accepting our powerlessness over alcohol. I sometimes feel that we put too much emphasis on whether the articles are right or wrong. AA has taught me to work at being tolerant of others regardless of their opinions, belief systems, sexual orientation, or political affiliation. The Big Book states that the only requirement for membership is a desire to quit drinking. The thing that draws and keeps me coming back, is that the AA program of recovery works for me if I work it to the best of my ability. There are no dues or fees or steadfast laws as to the number of meetings I have to attend. AA has no musts but it has a lot of have to's. I have to be very honest. I have to be willing to listen and be tolerant of other people's opinions. I have to find and use a Higher Power. I have to have a sponsor and contact him regularly. I have to attend meetings on a regular weekly basis.