I Get Drunk — We Stay Sober
because I could never stay sober by myself
The very first word in the AA 12 Steps is We.
The First Step says: We admitted we were powerless over alcohol — that our lives had become unmanageable.
WE admitted we were powerless and OUR lives had become unmanageable. When Bill W. wrote these lines, he sent out the message, loud and clear. We are not alone anymore.
The loneliness of active alcoholism was deep and penetrating. “Nobody knows the trouble I seen. Nobody knows the sorrow” to quote an old spiritual. “If you had my problems you would drink too!”
“Just one to get the edge off.” At AA meetings are people who have all “Been there. Done that.” When someone mentions loneliness many heads start bobbing in remembrance.
“I’ve tried everything and can’t quit. Might as well get used to it, I guess.” Bill lets us know 1st thing that we don’t have to be so alone anymore. We are now surrounded by many others who felt the same way and are now happy, joyous, and free.
People like you and me. Old. Young. Rich. Poor. Highly educated. Illiterate. White. Brown. All with a common bond. Can’t guarantee their actions after taking that first drink.
