AA Lessons Learned – We Don’t Graduate in AA

Over the years in AA, I’ve noticed that many people try to rush through the steps, crossing them off as they go—another one completed. Many look for a quick fix. But our work never ends. There is no easier, softer way. You will not find diplomas or certificates of completion in AA.

To me, sobriety means trying to become a better person today than I was yesterday. Some days go great; other days are so-so. I measure the success of my own program by how I live at the end of each day.

When I came to my first AA meeting, I ran into a guy I used to drink with at the bar. He had six months of sobriety, and he was glowing—full of energy and new life. He took the time to explain that AA is a 24-hour program.

One day at a time. He told me not to fret about the past. If I did not drink today, he said, my future would likely turn out much better.

When I first got sober in the 1970s, AA did not give out chips of any kind. That included Bill Wilson’s home group. Instead, we talked about having a daily reprieve from a fatal malady, contingent upon our spiritual condition. People encouraged me to work the Twelve Steps as suggested, attend meetings, get active, and help the newcomer.

I learned early that AA works if you work it.