Bob K. on AA: A Journey Through Secular Sobriety
I'm finding a big percentage of AA members aren't readers, but I was a reader and I came into AA and I just thought that God's stuff was driving me crazy.
What happens when you're asked to pray, but you don't believe in God? Bob K. faced this exact dilemma when he first encountered Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). In this episode of the Beyond Belief Sobriety Podcast, host John S. chats with Bob K., a member of the Whitby Freethinkers Group and the author of 'Key Players in AA History'. Bob opens up about his unique journey through AA, shedding light on his secular approach to sobriety.
Bob shares how he navigated the traditional AA framework, often feeling out of place with its religious undertones. He recalls sitting through meetings filled with readings from the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, all while grappling with his disbelief in God. "I wasn't much interested in any of that 'program' stuff," he admits, emphasizing his preference for reading and research over prayer.
The conversation also dives into the rich history of AA, offering listeners a fresh perspective on its founding and evolution. Bob discusses the ongoing battle for secular sobriety within AA, highlighting how civil rights legislation has influenced the organization’s future. Throughout the episode, Bob stresses the importance of staying true to oneself in the journey to sobriety. His candid insights and experiences provide a compelling look at how one can navigate recovery without adhering to traditional religious concepts.
If you're curious about AA's history or looking for a secular path to sobriety, this episode is a must-listen.