There are so many thoughts in here about the ideas of the spiritual way of life. And that’s because those who started this program wanted to open the door to all alcoholics. Whether they believed in theology or not. Just so that they could have the opportunity to get sober and stay sober, by putting this program into action in their lives.
I’ve know a lot of atheists and agnostics in here. And what strikes me the most is the idea that they are not people who ignore spirituality. Most of them I know are open to prayer and meditation. Even the Eleventh Step is not turned down. Reminds me of what that Ninth Step states, that the spiritual life is not a theory. And indeed it isn’t. We have to live it, as the BB tells us to.
That’s why the specific descriptions of what we believe in is better left out of the meetings we go to. A general statement is enough. So the name a Higher Power is probably what we need to stay with. I’ve known those who believe in all kinds of theologies, but never bring them up in meetings. The BB states that we’re not here to teach others in what we believe in or why. It’s up to the individual to arrive at their own conclusions. We and they can share our thoughts, once we or they have reached decisions. But we’re not here to argue or preach. We’re here to grow along spiritual lines and each individual has their own.
I’m always pleased with the decisions of those early fathers of this program. All of us have an opportunity to get sober and stay sober. We never should get into discussion of our political thoughts or beliefs. The same, when it comes to our thoughts on what we believe or not. What I have is my own business, as long as I have that willingness and desire to stay sober a day at a time and am willing to put this program, as it is written, into action within me.