June 27

June 27 – AM

Page 15, Bill’s Story, Chapter 1

My wife and I abandoned ourselves with enthusiasm to the idea of helping other alcoholics to a solution of their problems.  It was fortunate, for my old business associates remained skeptical for a year and a half, during which I found little work.  I was not too well at the time, and was plagued by waves of self-pity and resentment.  This sometimes nearly drove me back to drink, but I soon found that when all other measures failed, work with another alcoholic would save the day.  Many times I have gone to my old hospital in despair.  On talking to a man there, I  would be amazingly lifted up and set on my feet.  It is a design for living that works in rough going.

June 27 – PM

Page 121, To Wives, Chapter 8

We realize that we have been giving you much direction and advice.  We may have seemed to lecture.  If that is so we are sorry, for we ourselves don’t always care for people who lecture us.  But what we have related is based upon experience, some of it painful.  We had to learn these things the hard way.  That is why we are anxious that you understand, and that you avoid these unnecessary difficulties.*
So to you out there who may soon be with us—we say “Good luck and God bless you!”

*The fellowship of Al-Anon Family Groups was formed about thirteen years after this chapter was written.  Though it is entirely separate from Alcoholics Anonymous, it uses the general principles of the A.A. program as a guide for husbands, wives, relatives, friends, and others close to alcoholics.  The foregoing pages (though addressed only to wives) indicate the problems such people may face.  Alateen, for teen-aged children of alcoholics, is a part of Al-Anon.