[Smokin' Joe]

When a lot of the persons present are court-ordered to go to meetings and only show up to jump through the hoops they need to get a driver's license back or avoid jail, your results are not going to be the best.

If they had just studied the people who voluntarily turned to AA, with or without treatment, I'd bet the results would improve.

Ultimately, take the 13th step. Go out the door and get a life!

[sphinx]

When a lot of the persons present are court-ordered to go to meetings and only show up to jump through the hoops they need to get a driver's license back or avoid jail, your results are not going to be the best. If they had just studied the people who voluntarily turned to AA, with or without treatment, I'd bet the results would improve.

Very important point. Ping for emphasis.

The courts, docs, clinics, etc. refer people to AA, not the other way around. AA gets a lot of people drifting through the door who don't have any intention of seeing it through. That's not a problem since AA isn't interested in insurance payments. People can come, people can hear, and if they're ready, they can stay.

I also agree with you about the 13th step. I took my last drink 14 years ago. I don't get to meetings much any more. Alcohol is simply no longer a factor in my life; there is certainly no craving, and life is busy. That said, I respect the old timers who still go regularly because they are there for the newcomers. You have reminded me that we all have that obligation.

[ichabod1]

Ultimately, take the 13th step. Go out the door and get a life!

I thought the 13th step was getting close to attractive newbies of the opposite sex and "working them through the steps".