Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) does not inquire into alcoholics’ religious beliefs – or lack of them – when they turn to the fellowship for help.

However, the AA program of recovery is based on certain spiritual values. Individual members are free to interpret these values as they think best, or not to think about them at all. Most members, before turning to AA, had already admitted that they could not handle their drinking – alcohol had taken control of their lives.

AA experience suggests that to get sober and stay sober, alcoholics need to accept and depend upon a spiritual entity, or force, that they perceive as greater than themselves. Some choose the AA group as their “Higher Power”; some look to God – as they understand him; and others rely upon entirely different concepts. Numerous alcoholics, when they first turn to AA, have definite reservations about accepting any concepts of a power greater than themselves.

Experience shows that, if they maintain an open mind on the subject and keep coming to AA meetings, they will in time find an answer to this distinctly personal dilemma.

The AA Estcourt branch hosts meetings every Tuesday at Forderville Primary School from 7pm to 8pm. Contact Desigan on 082 849 3014.