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Dear Editor:
I continue to be a participant in Alcoholics Anonymous because aspects of the program are unique and compliment my recovery.
However, there are parts of the program that concern me, such as lack of screening process, making it possible (without foreknowledge) to work with violent or lascivious criminals because the crux of the program is anonymity. Also, I question any healthy benefit for people who have suffered racial, religious or economic hardships to once again, admit they are powerless.
While Alcoholics Anonymous is faith-based at its core, I’m an atheist and find myself concealing this for fear of criticism. In addition, sources outside of AA estimate the success rate is less than 5 percent, but this doesn’t deter me from its advantages.
Lastly, what concerns me most is how AA has become embedded in the deepest fibers of American culture without being questioned or viewed with skepticism. Nowadays most referrals to the program don’t come from members, but from your local neighbor who’s never been to a meeting nor understands its core principles.
Until Alcoholics Anonymous realizes it doesn’t have a monopoly on recovery, it will be an antiquated organization unable to reach those who may benefit from its toughness and durability.
Anonymous
Noblesville