From our online AA literature study guide at AABookClub.org, Big Book topics for study, meditation or use with a sponsee. (For the origins of these topics, click here : AA Book Club - Big Book Topics):  

 

Come, Suffer Uphill With the Rest of Us

Almost none of us liked the self-searching, the leveling of our pride, the confession of shortcomings which the process requires for its successful consummation. But we saw that it really worked in others, and we had come to believe in the hopelessness and futility of life as we had been living it. When, therefore, we were approached by those in whom the problem had been solved, there was nothing left for us but to pick up the simple kit of spiritual tools laid at our feet. (Page 25)

Most alcoholics have to be pretty badly mangled before they really commence to solve their problems. (Page 43)

If you have decided you want what we have and are willing to go to any length to get it—then you are ready to take certain steps.

At some of these we balked. We thought we could find an easier, softer way. But we could not. With all the earnestness at our command, we beg of you to be fearless and thorough from the very start. Some of us have tried to hold on to our old ideas and the result was nil until we let go absolutely. (Page 58)

Remember it was agreed at the beginning we would go to any lengths for victory over alcohol. (Page 76)

The spiritual life is not a theory. We have to live it. (Page 83)

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Does It Really Matter?

the more we fought and tried to have our own way, the worse matters got (Page 66)

In meditation, we ask God what we should do about each specific matter. The right answer will come, if we want it. (Page 69)

Assuming we are spiritually fit, we can do all sorts of things alcoholics are not supposed to do. People have said we must not go where liquor is served; we must not have it in our homes; we must shun friends who drink; we must avoid moving pictures which show drinking scenes; we must not go into bars; our friends must hide their bottles if we go to their houses; we mustn’t think or be reminded about alcohol at all. Our experience shows that this is not necessarily so.

We meet these conditions every day. An alcoholic who cannot meet them, still has an alcoholic mind; there is something the matter with his spiritual status. (Page 100-101)

You forget that you have just now tapped a source of power much greater than yourself. To duplicate, with such backing, what we have accomplished is only a matter of willingness, patience and labor. (Page 163)

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