AA as an atheist

[Elkwoman]

Phoenix: I knew a guy who had a rose for his Higher Power, a man who had his cat for a sponsor. G.O.D. stands for Group of drunks. The book has a chapter for Atheists. Whenever we say God it is followed by God, "As I understand God" This is not and can never be a religious group this AA thing. Religion is the rules they have like wearing a Yamaka cap for the Jewish men, or no meat on Good Friday for Catholics. No rules in AA except if you've had a drink or drug that day please just listen in the mtgs and afterwards a member will talk with you if you want. Before I got here I thought Jose Cuervo was my god. No I know different! This AA thing has no leaders, no president, only trusted servants. Suggestions rather then rules, take what ya like, leave the rest. The most important person in the room is the newcomer, not the guy with the most expensive car, or longest time in recovery. It's an odd place for us odd ducks, it's plum backwards and it works. No religion, no politics, no color, no amount of money matters. Met an 11 yr old girl in AA, 97 yr old man. I joined knowing I'd never belong and I'd never stay sober. I thought I'll do every single thing they say to do and come every day n I'll show them this does not work. That was August 10th.....1987. Hope you decide to try this.