Dr Robert Smith took his last drink today, the 10th of June, in 1935. Alcoholics Anonymous, which was organized by Dr Bob and Bill Wilson, dates its creation from this moment.
So, happy Eighty-seventh birthday, AA!
Using principles first adapted from the Oxford Group and over time evolved into its own thing, Dr Bob and Bill W created a powerful spiritual movement.
I’ve reflected on the spirituality of Alcoholics Anonymous a number of times, for instance here and here and here.
AA isn’t above criticism and makes some claims that I don’t believe are true.
But, what is true is that AA has helped a significant number of people stay sober. And from my perspective even most interesting is how it has created a genuine and authentic spiritual path for many people, a Way of the Heart’s Surrender.
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