I have attended a few AA meetings, and I can see how it can be a benefit to many. I found the social atmosphere to be a bit triggering; while I never did it, I would feel compelled to drink after going to a meeting — a consequence of my social anxiety.

I recently finished the book, it’s clearly a piece for it’s era. Some parts were very relatable when discussing the behaviours of alcoholics; I saw a lot of myself in those. But I was repeatedly off-put by the portrayal that alcoholism is a disease for men. We know this isn’t truth, and that’s why I feel the piece is very dated. And of course AA professes to be removed from religious connection, yet it is deeply rooted in a reliance on an external power, often called “God.” The name itself is toxic to me. Not that I haven’t written about my connection to “God;” My connection with such an entity is not one with an external influence. If believing in something outside of oneself brings one to sobriety, than I am all for it; it simply doesn’t feel right for me.

As of today I’ve been on the “water-wagon” for 12 days, and I really like it. I’m tempted a lot, but the more than number grows, the less I want to mess it up.

You’ve always been one of my biggest supporters Tim, and I really appreciate everything you’ve done for me. We are all ripples, and our ripples can affect others for good or bad depending on our intentions. As you and I are both well intentioned; I think our ripples become more powerful, and a more positive influence on the world when we bounce off of one another.