| Our own literature contains passages suggesting other sources of inspiration, and that AA does not have all the answers. It is not stated or implied in the literature that Alcoholics Anonymous is infallible. |
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Big Book:
“Upon therapy for the alcoholic himself, we surely have no monopoly.”
“We have no desire to convince anyone that there is only one way by which faith can be acquired.”
“If not members of religious bodies, we sometimes select and memorize a few set prayers which emphasize the principles we have been discussing. There are many helpful books also. Suggestions about these may be obtained from one’s priest, minister or rabbi. Be quick to see where religious people are right. Make use of what they offer.”
“We have no monopoly on God; we merely have an approach that worked with us.”
“By no means do we offer it [the book Alcoholics Anonymous] as the last word on this subject, but so far as we are concerned, it has worked with us.”
“Our book is meant to be suggestive only. We realize we know only a little. God will constantly disclose more to you and to us.”
12 & 12:
“First, Alcoholics Anonymous does not demand that you believe anything. All of its Twelve Steps are but suggestions.”
"The world's libraries and places of worship are a treasure trove for all seekers. It is to be hoped that every A.A. who has a religious connection which emphasizes meditation will return to the practice of that devotion as never before."
"So our question will be this: How, by ignorance, compulsion, and self-will, do we misuse this gift for our own destruction? We A.A. cannot pretend to offer full answers to age-old perplexities, but our own experience does provide certain answers that work for us."
Foreword to the Second Edition
Page 28, There is a Solution
Page 87, Into Action, Step 11
Page 95, Working With Others
Page 144, To Employers
Page 164, A Vision For You
Page 26, Step Two
Page 98, Step Eleven
Page 117, Step Twelve