I do however I cannot discount the worth of sources outside AA. I personally see these things as enhancing my program. I AM trying to improve my program of recovery not the AA program of recovery.

AA has been my foundation in sobriety. I too enhance my program with whatever education and/or support I need depending on the circumstance. But one thing remains constant, and that is the AA and the 12 steps that have been with me on my journey thus far. CM xxx

I once heard that Dr Bob said that there was no such thing as personal interpretation of the steps.

Given the nature of the ego and the alcoholic mind, I have found his view to be valid. As soon as I roam into personal interpretations and working MY program, I can no longer be 100% sure I am on the right track.

The experiences that happen to us as the result of following prescriptions are often common, however they are also very personal.

The AA program seems to work for many alcoholics who find that downtrodden place where they have run out of ideas on how to recover and escape the living hell they are in.

I stick to the instruction from the Big Book but I can add to my exploration and experience of spirituality as much as I wish - and I do. I learn far more through sponsoring others about alcoholism and recovery than most anything else.

For myself its a full circle deal with the program of AA. Literature, fellowship, helping others and of course living the steps to the best of my ability on a daily basis.

By the way I truly believe the program will never change. As long as we stick to the traditions.

That outside help I got when working the Steps didn't solve my depression absolutely enhanced my sobriety as Nod said. It's important today that I continue to use all avenues necessary to be emotionally healthy, including of course Alcoholics Anonymous, for which, I wouldn't have a life worth living.

AA is not a cure all.

Yes, I agree that AA is not a cure-all and especially when it comes to meds! I had CBT counselling when I came off the alcohol because of a huge anxiety problem. It helped at least to stop the panic attacks until I got through the Steps. Since then and up to today I seem not to be suffering from anxiety anymore.

I, too, had suffered from GAD with panic attacks for 10 years prior to reaching AA. I didn't realize that the alcohol had been fueling the anxiety either! With 2 1/2 yrs of intense therapy, the root of the anxiety D/O was resolved. We can be sober yet still be imprisoned by other issues.

BTW, My psychologist almost committed me because I refused to take meds because of the misinformation that was provided me by some ignorant AAer's. As an alcoholic though, I have the responsibility of always checking my motives with medication, not leaving it to the dr to understand about my disease and prescribe appropriately. I can no longer make excuses for what happens in my recovery. I am the one to whom it is up.