
Thoroughness Ought to Be the Watchword
December 23, 2024
You’re the Boss!
February 4, 2025
A Tool For Reading Alcoholics Anonymous
After reading through several chapters of the Plain Language Big Book, I must say that I like it! Hence, this review. Then, the question came to mind “Do I wish I would have had this book available to me instead of the original Big Book in early sobriety?” The answer is, no. Allow me to Let me explain.
It worked with the tools I had available and the message does come through in this new version. It’s quite a refreshing experience. The message is very similar to the way my sponsor relayed the information to me and also similar to Big Book and step studies I have attended.
I agree with the view that the style in which the original Big Book was written is beautiful, a sign of the times, a subtle insight and reminder of just how long this book has been around.
I did have some difficulty reading the original Big Book, but I also had access to those who had more knowledge of the material than I did, who could answer my questions, comments, etc. It is understood that there are folks who don’t have that luxury and it is in this way, I feel, that this version will be of great help.
While reading through this new version, I felt disoriented sometimes, no doubt due to being used to reading something a certain way for so long and then reading it in a different way, could be rather jarring. This was quickly replaced, however, by a sense of calm and excitement, refreshment and vigor before, during, and after.
My first thought towards such an idea was “Why mess with something that has worked for some time now?” I admit, my view has changed after reading this book. I have no doubt that this version of our book will be a great tool. Not only for those who have difficulty with the original, but for all members of our Fellowship.
Regards,
By J.C.
1 Comment
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I am currently going through the plain language book line for line for line. I have been sober 46 years and gone through the big book with probably a hundred newcomers plus I had a weekly big book study at my house from 2984 to 2023 when I moved. That meeting is currently online and I attend a big book study in my new town. So I am acquainted with the big book. In the new version of the doctors opinion alone I found 36 statements which I believe are not what the doctor intended, and 6 outright contradictions. Add to that the new version, which resembles the original but little, is signed by Doctor Silkworth. Quite a Geary seeing as he has been dead for many years. Leaving aside the many contradictions that state the opposite of what the original says, the dishonesty of signing his name is fraudulent and possibly criminal in nature. I do not wish to be associated with this type of dishonesty or incompetence. While I applauded the idea, this book should not be presented as portraying the program. It promotes a self help approach to alcoholism rather than the total reliance on a power greater than ourselves as spelled out in the big book. This approach may well Keep chronic alcoholics from obtaining long term sobriety.




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