the AA Preamble: A Comprehensive Guide

II. What is the AA Preamble?

The AA Preamble is a concise statement that encapsulates the essence and purpose of Alcoholics Anonymous. It serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path for countless individuals on their journey to sobriety. The preamble is not just a collection of words; it’s a commitment, a promise, and a beacon of hope.

A. AA Preamble (from 2021)

“Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of people who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for AA membership; we are self-supporting through our own contributions. AA is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organization, or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy; neither endorses nor opposes any causes. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.”

B. How does the AA Preamble Define the Community of AA?

The preamble paints a picture of a supportive community, a “fellowship of people” bound by a shared experience and a common goal. This community is inclusive, with the only criterion for membership being a genuine desire to stop drinking. It emphasizes mutual support, with members sharing their experiences, strengths, and hopes. The AA community is self-reliant, sustained by its members’ contributions, and remains neutral, steering clear of external affiliations and controversies.

In my years of practice, I’ve often encountered individuals like David, hesitant and seeking clarity. I recall a session with a young woman, Emily, who echoed David’s sentiments. She was apprehensive about attending her first AA meeting, fearing judgment and exclusion. I shared the essence of the AA Preamble with her, emphasizing its message of inclusivity and support. A few weeks later, Emily returned, her eyes gleaming with gratitude. She had found her community, her safe haven.

C. How does the AA Preamble Define the Goals of AA?

The overarching goal of AA, as highlighted in the preamble, is twofold: personal sobriety and aiding others in their recovery journey. The program isn’t just about abstaining from alcohol; it’s about building a life of purpose, resilience, and mutual support. The preamble underscores the importance of community in achieving these goals. By sharing experiences and offering support, members empower each other to overcome challenges and embrace a life of sobriety.

I remember a poignant moment with a client named Robert. He had been sober for a decade but still clung to his worn-out copy of the AA Preamble. For him, it was a daily reminder of his commitment to himself and his responsibility towards others. He often said, “It’s not just about me. It’s about us.”

Before we delve deeper into the evolution of the AA Preamble and its significance, I’d like to share some valuable insights on AA slogans that have been instrumental in many recovery journeys.

III. Evolution of the AA Preamble

The AA Preamble, while timeless, has undergone changes since its inception. These modifications reflect the evolving understanding of addiction and the program’s commitment to inclusivity and support.

A. How has the AA preamble changed from the original 1940 version?

The original AA Preamble from 1940, while rooted in the same principles, had nuances that were reflective of the times.

Here are the top 5 biggest differences between the 1940 AA Preamble and the 2021 AA Preamble:

1. Length and Detail:
   • The 1940 preamble is much longer and more detailed than the 2021 version. It goes into specifics about the nature of alcoholism, the program’s approach, and the expectations of its members.
   • The 2021 preamble is concise, focusing on the core principles and purpose of AA.
2. Religious Undertones:
   • The 1940 preamble emphasizes the need for a “Power greater than ourselves” and even suggests a moment of silent prayer and meditation. It also mentions that each person’s religious views are their own affair.
   • The 2021 preamble does not mention any religious aspect directly but states that AA is not allied with any sect or denomination.
3. Definition of an Alcoholic and Membership:
   • In the 1940 version, there’s a detailed description of what constitutes an alcoholic in the context of AA, including the stipulation that taking even one drop of an alcoholic beverage results in loss of AA membership.
   • The 2021 version simply states the requirement for membership as a desire to stop drinking, without going into specifics about what constitutes a lapse.
4. Tone and Approach:
   • The 1940 preamble has a more directive tone, with statements like “If you don’t have a Big Book, it’s time you bought you one” and “To drink is to die.”
   • The 2021 preamble is more neutral and focuses on the fellowship and shared experience without giving direct instructions or making absolute statements.
5. Association with External Entities:
   • The 2021 preamble explicitly states that AA is not allied with any external entities such as sects, denominations, politics, organizations, or institutions and avoids controversies. This is a clear stance on AA’s neutrality.
   • The 1940 preamble does not have a similar explicit statement, although it does mention that each person’s religious views are their own affair.

These differences reflect the evolution of AA’s approach and messaging over the years, moving from a more detailed and directive tone to a concise and neutral one, while still emphasizing the core principles of fellowship and recovery.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of the principles that guide the AA program, I recommend exploring A vision for you in AA. It provides valuable insights into the program’s philosophy and approach.

IV. The Key Points of the Current AA Preamble

The AA Preamble, in its current form, is a testament to the program’s core values and principles. Let’s dissect its key points to gain a deeper understanding.

A. Fellowship and Shared Experience

The preamble begins by emphasizing the community aspect of AA – a “fellowship of people.” This community thrives on shared experiences, strength, and hope. It’s not just about individual recovery; it’s about collective growth and mutual support.

B. The Desire to Stop Drinking

The only requirement for AA membership is a genuine desire to stop drinking. This inclusivity ensures that anyone, regardless of their background or the severity of their addiction, can find support within the AA community.

C. Self-Supporting Nature

AA is a self-sustaining community. There are no dues or fees, and the program is supported by the voluntary contributions of its members. This ensures that the primary focus remains on recovery and support, free from external financial pressures.

D. Neutrality and Independence

The preamble underscores AA’s neutrality. The program is not affiliated with any external entities, be it religious, political, or institutional. This independence ensures that the program remains universally accessible and free from external influences.

E. Primary Purpose

The ultimate goal of AA, as articulated in the preamble, is dual-faceted: personal sobriety and helping other alcoholics achieve the same. This sense of purpose drives the program and its members, ensuring a supportive environment for all.

In my years of counseling, I’ve often drawn parallels between the journey of recovery and climbing a mountain. Each step, no matter how small, brings you closer to the summit. The AA Preamble serves as a compass, guiding individuals through the treacherous terrains of addiction toward the pinnacle of sobriety.