Is That Actually AA? The Difference Between AA Principles and AA Customs
Is that really an AA rule, or just a familiar custom? Explore six common AA practices, what the Twelve Traditions say, and why different groups do things differently.
To carry the message to the alcoholic who still suffers.
Do I Have to Believe in God?
For some people walking into AA, this isn’t a minor question. It’s the question. Maybe you’re religious. Maybe you’re spiritual but not religious. Maybe you’re agnostic, atheist, angry with God, suspicious of organized religion, or simply not interested. Then somebody hands you…
AA Things Nobody Explained to Me
Over the next several weeks, AA Things Nobody Explained to Me will look at some of the customs, language and practices you may encounter in Alcoholics Anonymous.
Fifth Edition of the Big Book Coming February 2027
Announcement regarding AA Big Book 5th edition, available in February 2027
The Twelve Steps in the High Desert
This post grounds the twelve steps of the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) program in the natural geography and locations in the Santa Fe, New Mexico area. It includes short summaries of each step and references the geography of Northern New Mexico with a touch of local humor.
Finding Your Home Group — Where You Belong
At some point, one meeting starts to feel different. Familiar.Comfortable.Yours. That’s a home group. Not because it’s perfect—but because you keep coming back. “We aren’t a glum lot.” (p. 132) You’ll find laughter there.And honesty.And people who notice when you’re…
Online Meetings – Expanding the Room
Online Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings have expanded access to diverse sharing experiences, connecting individuals from various locations. Despite differing formats, the core purpose remains consistent: fostering relationships. Engaging actively with fellow alcoholics significantly aids recovery. Newcomers are encouraged to explore various meetings to find their supportive community.
AA Around the World – A Global Fellowship
AA exists in more than 180 countries. Walk into a meeting abroad and you may encounter different languages, customs, and formats. But something deeper cuts through all of that: Recognition.Connection.Understanding. “We are people who normally would not mix.” (p. 17)…
AA Around the Country – Same Program, Different Flavor
This post emphasizes the varied regional personalities of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings across the U.S. While some meetings are structured and focused on the Big Book, others foster a more casual atmosphere. It encourages newcomers to explore different meetings to find their ideal environment, highlighting the shared goal of recovery.
Meditation & Quiet Meetings – Learning to be Still
Not every meeting is about talking. Some create space for silence, reflection, or meditation. And for many of us, that’s not easy at first. But the program points us there: “We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious…