by Brock » Mon Sep 19, 2016 6:02 am
I particularly like this - “I have learned to pause and asses what part of me is being stubborn and bullheaded and forced myself to look at all aspects of things.” It is not much different from the book instruction - “As we go through the day we pause, when agitated or doubtful, and ask for the right thought or action.” Something I have found to be the most useful AA tool.
Members are inclined and encouraged to give their experience, so if they can't see the possibility of themselves looking at all aspects, and self diagnosing where they may be justifying the stubbornness, or bullheadedness you mention, they are inclined to advise that we must seek the assistance of others in meetings, or the advise of sponsors.
Our main texts speak much less of the importance of meetings, as compared to that of God. Yet when non believers in God join here as they often do, we quite rightly bend over backward in encouraging them. We use quotes about higher powers of their own choosing, and I have seen more than once the entire 12 steps reproduced without the word God, as an incentive to encourage them. We sometimes seem to demonstrate less patience with those who don't go to meetings.
The books have stories about people who didn't attend meetings, this could only be to reassure those who can't attend. Bill Wilson spoke in 'Language of the Heart,' about a fellow who said his group has three members, “God, the Big Book and me.” And while meetings are traditionally the principle avenue, for practicing that part of step twelve which involves passing the message, more and more I believe forums like these, and the internet in general, are playing a role in this.
I like and enjoy meetings a couple of times a week, but respect your approach and reasons for not doing so, some words in your posts ring truer to me than many I have heard in meetings, and I wish you the best.
"Good morning, this is your Higher Power speaking. I will not be needing your help today."
