It was 58 years ago this coming Wednesday that I snuck up the three flights of stairs to that meeting room at 55 1/2 East Michigan Avenue in Battle Creek, Michigan. A fellow was making a big urn of coffee and shook my hand suggesting I look over the 12 steps on the big display at the front of the room. I read three of them.
- We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable. (And how, wife, job, health, attitude. Everything.)
- Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. (I believed.)
- Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him. (Why not try it?)
The meeting soon began and I felt like I was among friends. I didn’t have a drink for 24 hours. Then 48. Then 96… That was 58 years ago now and it is still working. There were a lot of meetings. A lot to learn and I am still learning, but it works. They call it A.A.
It was about 50 years ago in Battle Creek that my mom and I went to one of your creative writing classes. I’ve always appreciated the inspiration that you gave me. Just wanted to say thank you.
Love to hear stories like yours about AA. Happy anniversary!