A.A. IS NOT A CURE-ALL
Recovery Einstein's Big Book perspective on the AA Daily Reflection for April 23.
You know, the phrase 'A.A. is not a cure-all' is one of the most important truths we ever face. The Big Book makes it crystal clear that we are never 'cured' of alcoholism—what we have is a daily reprieve, contingent on our spiritual condition [Page 85]. That means A.A. isn't a magic pill that fixes everything in our lives. It's a design for living that works if we work it, but it doesn't automatically solve our financial troubles, relationship problems, or character defects. As the Big Book says, 'We are not cured of alcoholism. What we really have is a daily reprieve' [Page 85]. And early on, we learn that 'once an alcoholic, always an alcoholic' [Page 33]—the physical craving can return at any moment if we let up on our spiritual program. So sobriety comes first, but then we have to take action on the rest of our lives. The program is a toolkit, not a finished house. It's up to us to keep building.
What areas of my life do I still expect A.A. to fix without my having to put in my own effort—and how can I start taking responsibility for those today?
Start each day with Einstein's Big Book perspective — a quiet moment before the world gets loud.
This is Recovery Einstein's original Big Book perspective on the day's theme — not the official AA Daily Reflections text. For the official reflection, follow the aa.org link above. Page references are to Alcoholics Anonymous (the Big Book), 4th Edition.
Quick answers
What is the AA Daily Reflection for April 23?
The theme for April 23 is “A.A. Is Not a Cure-All.” You know, the phrase 'A.A. is not a cure-all' is one of the most important truths we ever face.
What areas of my life do I still expect A.A. to fix without my having to put in my own effort—and how can I start taking responsibility for those today?
The program is a toolkit, not a finished house. It's up to us to keep building. (Big Book: Chapter 6, pages 83-85)