Passages from Alcoholics Anonymous’ foundational text, often referred to as the “Big Book,” offer concise expressions of the program’s core principles and the experiences of its early members. These selections frequently address concepts like powerlessness over alcohol, the importance of surrender, and the transformative potential of community and spiritual growth. For example, a passage might describe the experience of hitting “rock bottom” or the relief found in admitting one’s alcoholism.
These textual excerpts serve multiple purposes within the recovery community. They provide comfort and identification for individuals struggling with addiction, reinforcing the message that they are not alone. Furthermore, they offer readily accessible reminders of the program’s philosophy, serving as touchstones for maintaining sobriety. Historically, the Big Book, first published in 1939, codified the experiences and insights of early AA members, shaping the organization’s development and influencing countless recovery programs that followed. The book’s accessible language and relatable narratives contributed significantly to its widespread impact.
