Archive for October 2010

For the Lady of the Rainbow where ever she is

Fraser Trevor

Link Author

Title: For the Lady of the Rainbow where ever she is
Author: Fraser Trevor
Rating 5 of 5 Des:

A Birth Certificate shows that we were born A Death Certificate shows that we died Pictures show that we lived! Have a seat . Re...

<div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><div><div><div><div><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 689px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 689px;" valign="top" width="100%">A Birth Certificate shows that we were born  
A Death Certificate shows that we died  
Pictures show that we lived!  
Have a seat . Relax . . .  
And read this slowly.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="ATT378552.jpg" height="480" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12bef14c77713bce&attid=0.1&disp=emb&zw" width="640" /></div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe... </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That just because two people argue,  </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">It doesn't mean they don't love each other. </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">And just because they don't argue, </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">It doesn't mean they do love each other. </div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">  <img alt="ATT378553.jpg" height="480" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12bef14c77713bce&attid=0.2&disp=emb&zw" width="640" /></div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe...</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That we don't have to change friends if </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">We understand that friends change.</div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="ATT378554.jpg" height="464" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12bef14c77713bce&attid=0.3&disp=emb&zw" width="690" /></div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe....</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That no matter how good a friend is, </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">They're going to hurt you every once in a while </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">And you must forgive them for that. </div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe...</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That true friendship continues to grow, </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">Even over the longest distance. </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">Same goes for true love. </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="ATT378555.jpg" height="497" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12bef14c77713bce&attid=0.4&disp=emb&zw" width="690" /></div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe... </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That you can do something in an instant </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That will give you heartache for life. </div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe....</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That it's taking me a long time </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">To become the person I want to be. </div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">  <img alt="ATT378556.jpg" height="518" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12bef14c77713bce&attid=0.5&disp=emb&zw" width="690" /></div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe...</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That you should always leave loved ones with </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">Loving words. It may be the last time you see them. </div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe.... </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That you can keep going long after you think you can't. </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="ATT378557.jpg" height="516" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12bef14c77713bce&attid=0.6&disp=emb&zw" width="690" /></div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe....</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That we are responsible for what </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">We do, no matter how we feel. </div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe...</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That either you control your attitude or it controls you.</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="ATT378558.jpg" height="413" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12bef14c77713bce&attid=0.7&disp=emb&zw" width="600" /></div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe...</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">To be done, regardless of the consequences. </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="ATT378559.jpg" height="518" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12bef14c77713bce&attid=0.8&disp=emb&zw" width="690" /></div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe....</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That my best friend and I can do anything or nothing and have the best time. </div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe....</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you're down </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">Will be the ones to help you get back up. </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="ATT378560.jpg" height="480" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12bef14c77713bce&attid=0.9&disp=emb&zw" width="640" /></div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe...</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That sometimes when I'm angry </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I have the right to be angry,  </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">But that doesn't give me the right to be cruel. </div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe....</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you've had </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">And what you've learned from them and less to do with  how many </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">Birthdays you've celebrated. </div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">   ;<img alt="ATT378561.jpg" height="502" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12bef14c77713bce&attid=0.10&disp=emb&zw" width="662" /></div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe....</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That it isn't always enough, </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">To be forgiven by others. </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">Sometimes, you have to learn to forgive yourself. </div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe...</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That no matter how bad your heart is broken </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">The world doesn't stop for your grief.. </div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe....</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That our background and circumstances </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">May have influenced who we are, </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">But, we are responsible for who we become.</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="ATT378562.jpg" height="501" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12bef14c77713bce&attid=0.11&disp=emb&zw" width="611" /></div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe...</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That you shouldn't be so eager to find </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">Out a secret. It could change your life Forever. </div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe.....</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">Two people can look at the exact same </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">Thing and see something totally different. </div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe....</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That your life can be changed in a matter of </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">Hours by people who don't even know you. </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="ATT378563.jpg" height="400" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12bef14c77713bce&attid=0.12&disp=emb&zw" width="600" /></div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe....</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That even when you think you have no more to give, </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">When a friend cries out to you - </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">You will find the strength to help. </div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe...</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That credentials on the wall </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">Do not make you a decent human being.</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="ATT378564.jpg" height="492" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12bef14c77713bce&attid=0.13&disp=emb&zw" width="690" /></div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe...</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That the people you care about most in life </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">Are taken from you too soon. </div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">I Believe...</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">That you should send this to </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">All of the people that you believe in, I just did.</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="ATT378565.jpg" height="389" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12bef14c77713bce&attid=0.14&disp=emb&zw" width="690" /></div> 
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> 
</div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">'The happiest of people don't necessarily </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">Have the best of everything; </div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">They just make the most of everything they have.</div> 
</div></div></div></div><div> 
</div></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"></div>

For the Lady of the Rainbow where ever she is

A Birth Certificate shows that we were born A Death Certificate shows that we died Pictures show that we lived! Have a seat . Re...

''24/7 sobriety'' programme involves people paying to be tested for alcohol twice a day after being convicted of drink-related crime, and appearing in court to face the prospect of custody

Fraser Trevor

Link Author

Title: ''24/7 sobriety'' programme involves people paying to be tested for alcohol twice a day after being convicted of drink-related crime, and appearing in court to face the prospect of custody
Author: Fraser Trevor
Rating 5 of 5 Des:

''24/7 sobriety'' programme involves people paying to be tested for alcohol twice a day after being convicted of drink-relat...

''24/7 sobriety'' programme involves people paying to be tested for alcohol twice a day after being convicted of drink-related crime, and appearing in court to face the prospect of custody if they test positive. 
 
 
It has already been implemented in the US, with the state of South Dakota reporting a 14 per cent drop in the prison population as a result, according to Deputy Mayor of London Kit Malthouse. 
 
 
 
He said he would like to pilot the scheme in the capital in the New Year, subject to government approval. 
 
He described London as having a "desperate problem" with alcohol where up to 50 per cent of crime is alcohol-related. 
 
"The advantage of this is it is not just punitive but corrective," he told the Today programme on BBC Radio 4. 
 
"It may be that it is used as an alternative to prison or conjunctive to prison." 
 
Mr Malthouse said that current methods such as counselling did not work to discourage persistent offenders and that some needed a "more rigorous approach". 
 
He added: "If you ask the police there are some people who cause trouble every Saturday night." 
 
Mr Malthouse said the American version of the scheme had a 99 per cent compliance rate and that it was "of no cost to the tax payer", because the people taking part paid a dollar per alcohol test. He described it as a ''cheaper and more cost-effective'' alternative to prison. 
 
The deputy mayor said that he hoped the scheme would have an impact on the amount of domestic violence that takes place in London, much of which is drink related. He said that in Dakota people can be on the programme for one to two years. 
 
He said: ''We would like to try it here. We do think drink is a great driver of crime in this city.'' 
 
However, Don Shenker, who runs Alcohol Concern, said he did not think "compulsory sobriety" was the best way to teach people to drink moderately and called for more government funding for alcohol education programmes. 
 
He said: "The evidence shows that if you give people brief advice on their drinking and ask them to look at why they are drinking then they can change that."

''24/7 sobriety'' programme involves people paying to be tested for alcohol twice a day after being convicted of drink-related crime, and appearing in court to face the prospect of custody

''24/7 sobriety'' programme involves people paying to be tested for alcohol twice a day after being convicted of drink-relat...

How does alcohol affect appearance?

Fraser Trevor

Link Author

Title: How does alcohol affect appearance?
Author: Fraser Trevor
Rating 5 of 5 Des:

"How does alcohol affect appearance? Alcohol dehydrates the body, particularly the skin, which can increase fine lines and wrinkles. ...

"How does alcohol affect appearance? 
Alcohol dehydrates the body, particularly the skin, which can increase fine lines and wrinkles. Dehydration often causes the body to try and hold onto fluids which can be seen as puffiness in the face and bloating of the stomach. Even small amounts of alcohol can deprive the skin of vital vitamins and nutrients, as it inhibits the body’s ability to absorb them. Alcohol can also dilate blood vessels resulting in red bumps, thread veins and spots. This may eventually lead to a condition called rosacea, a skin disorder that starts with a tendency to blush and flush easily and can eventually lead to facial disfigurement. 
 
At 7 calories per gram, alcohol is second only in calories per gram to pure fat. It also lowers blood sugars which increases appetite - hence the reason why the French invented the aperitif and why kebab houses, Indian restaurants and chip shops have a tendency to fill up as the pubs, bars and clubs start to empty. This ‘double whammy’ effect can wreak havoc on the waistline, so choose your drinks wisely. 
What are the health benefits associated with drinking alcohol? 
Alcohol consumed in moderation is thought to help reduce the risk of heart disease. It's still not entirely clear how this is achieved but it is now known that a large proportion of the risk reduction comes from raising 'good' cholesterol concentrations in the blood, and also reducing the risk of blood clots. Red wine in particular is believed to be beneficial as it contains flavonoids. These act as antioxidants which may help prevent the build up of fat on the inner walls of arteries, known as atherosclerosis."

How does alcohol affect appearance?

"How does alcohol affect appearance? Alcohol dehydrates the body, particularly the skin, which can increase fine lines and wrinkles. ...

This is the most beautiful advice I have ever received in an email....

Fraser Trevor

Link Author

Title: This is the most beautiful advice I have ever received in an email....
Author: Fraser Trevor
Rating 5 of 5 Des:

This is the most beautiful advice I have ever received in an email.... An Angel says, 'Never borrow from the future. If you wor...

<div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: medium; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 6pt; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: medium; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; font-family: arial, sans-serif; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 3pt; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;"><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: medium; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: medium; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-left: 3pt; margin-right: 0.5in; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;"> 
 </div></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: medium; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: medium; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; font-family: arial, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 3pt; margin-right: 0.5in; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;">This is the most beautiful advice I have ever received in an email....</div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: medium; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 6pt; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: medium; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; font-family: arial, sans-serif; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 3pt; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;"><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: medium; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: medium; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 75pt; margin-right: 1in; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;"> 
</div></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: medium; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 6pt; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: medium; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; font-family: arial, sans-serif; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 3pt; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;"><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: medium; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: medium; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 39pt; margin-right: 0.5in; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;"> 
</div></div><div style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: medium; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 6pt; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: medium; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; font-family: arial, sans-serif; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 3pt; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;"><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: medium; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: medium; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 3pt; margin-right: 0.5in; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;"><img alt="[]" height="360" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12b858ba20c50669&attid=0.1&disp=emb&zw" width="480" /> An Angel says, 'Never borrow from the future. If you worry about what may happen tomorrow and it doesn't happen, you have worried in vain. Even if it does happen, you have to worry twice.' 
1. Pray. 
2. Go to bed on time. 
3. Get up on time so you can start the day unrushed. 
4. Say 'No' to projects that won't fit into your time schedule, or that will compromise your mental health.<img alt="[]" height="360" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12b858ba20c50669&attid=0.2&disp=emb&zw" width="480" />  
5. Delegate tasks to capable others. 
6. Simplify and unclutter your life. 
7. Less is more. (Although one is often not enough, two are often too many.) 
8. Allow extra time to do things and to get to places.<img alt="[]" height="360" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12b858ba20c50669&attid=0.3&disp=emb&zw" width="480" />  
9. Pace yourself. Spread out big changes and difficult projects over time; don't lump the hard things all together. 
10. Take one day at a time. 
11. Separate worries from concerns. If a situation is a concern, find out what God would have you do and let go of the anxiety. If you can't do anything about a situation, forget it. 
12. Live within your budget; don't use credit cards for ordinary purchases.<img alt="[]" height="360" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12b858ba20c50669&attid=0.4&disp=emb&zw" width="480" />  
13. Have backups; an extra car key in your wallet, an extra house key buried in the garden, extra stamps, etc. 
14. <a href="http://k.ms/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000cc;" target="_blank">K.MS</a>. (Keep Mouth Shut). This single piece of advice can prevent an enormous amount of trouble. 
15. Do something for the 'Kid in You' everyday.<img alt="[]" border="0" height="360" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12b858ba20c50669&attid=0.5&disp=emb&zw" width="480" />  
16. Carry something to read while waiting in line. 
17. Get enough rest. 
18. Eat right. 
19. Get organized so everything has its place.<img alt="[]" border="0" height="360" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12b858ba20c50669&attid=0.6&disp=emb&zw" width="480" />  
20. Listen to a tape while driving that can help improve your quality of life. 
21. Write down thoughts and inspirations. 
22. Every day, find time to be alone. 
23. Having problems? Talk to God on the spot. Try to nip small problems in the bud. Don't wait until it's time to go to bed to try and pray. 
24. Make friends with Godly people.<img alt="[]" border="0" height="360" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12b858ba20c50669&attid=0.7&disp=emb&zw" width="480" />  
25. Keep a folder of favorite scriptures on hand. 
26. Remember that the shortest bridge between despair and hope is often a good 'Thank you, Jesus.' 
27. Laugh. 
28. Laugh some more! 
29. Take your work seriously, but not yourself at all. 
30. Develop a forgiving attitude (most people are doing the best they can).<img alt="[]" border="0" height="360" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=3b30568af3&view=att&th=12b858ba20c50669&attid=0.8&disp=emb&zw" width="480" />  
31. Be kind to unkind people (they probably need it the most). 
32. Sit on your ego. 
33. Talk less; listen more. 
34. Slow down. 
35. Remind yourself that you are not the general manager of the universe. 
36. Every night before bed, think of one thing you're grateful for that you've never been grateful for before. GOD HAS  A WAY   OF TURNING THINGS AROUND FOR YOU.'If God is for us, 
who can be against us?'</div></div>

This is the most beautiful advice I have ever received in an email....

This is the most beautiful advice I have ever received in an email.... An Angel says, 'Never borrow from the future. If you wor...

An old nun

Fraser Trevor

Link Author

Title: An old nun
Author: Fraser Trevor
Rating 5 of 5 Des:

"An old nun who was living in a convent next to a construction site noticed the coarse language of the workers and decided to spend ...

An old nun

"An old nun who was living in a convent next to a construction site noticed the coarse language of the workers and decided to spend ...

today I saw her, I saw her and she saw me

Fraser Trevor

Link Author

Title: today I saw her, I saw her and she saw me
Author: Fraser Trevor
Rating 5 of 5 Des:

"Today Heaven and Earth smile at me, Today the sun reaches the bottom of my heart, today I saw her, I saw her and she saw me… Today...

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
"Today Heaven and Earth smile at me, 
Today the sun reaches the bottom of my heart, 
today I saw her, I saw her and she saw me… 
Today I believe in God! 
 
 
Gustavo Aldolfo Becquer" 
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The Inside Facts About 12-Step Recovery another view

Fraser Trevor

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Title: The Inside Facts About 12-Step Recovery another view
Author: Fraser Trevor
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The recovery group movement started with an organization known as Alcoholics Anonymous, (AA). They are usually looked upon as a benevolent...

The recovery group movement started with an organization known as Alcoholics Anonymous, (AA). They are usually looked upon as a benevolent society that does only positive things. The media usually portrays them in a positive light. The public seems to regard them as an answer to the societal problems of alcohol and drug abuse. The medical and legal communities have also embraced this organization. This is a look into the realities of the AA organization and its practices. It is also an attempt to disclose the actual nature of this organization and its impact on the public.  
 
AA comes from a religious organization known as the Oxford Group. This was started by a Lutheran minister named Frank Buchman.  
 
As a missionary in China, Reverend Buchman began holding informal meetings known as, "house parties." These were intended to bring non-church going people to a Christian fellowship. In the 1930's, AA and the Oxford Group were one in the same. Their basic fundamental beliefs were based on, "God control." It was a purely religious organization that emphasized purity, honesty, unselfishness and, love. Within this, their most important objective was to win souls for Christ. The process involved what is called the five C's: Confidence, confession, conviction, conversion and, continuance(Ragge 5).  
 
An individual named Bill Wilson was contacted by someone within the Oxford Group. He suffered from a severe addiction to alcohol. He then became a participant of this group and began to evangelize in hospitals and sanitariums. He soon discovered that the Oxford Group was not enough to keep him sober(The Birth of AA).  
 
In 1935, Mr. Wilson met another person suffering from addiction known as Dr. Bob Smith. Together they formed what came to be known as AA. Bill Wilson wrote his book in 1939(The Birth of AA).  
 
By individual members of AA, this book, now known as the, "Big Book," is considered to be, "divinely inspired." In reality, it is just a summary of what the Oxford Group had already established. The 12-steps that are included in chapter 5 of this book are given the same reverence as the 10 Commandments are given by the Judeo/Christian world. They are an interpretation of the five C's of the Oxford Group. At least half of those steps make a direct reference to God(Rational Recovery). The reason for having twelve steps may be related to the fact that there were twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ in the New Testament.  
 
Within the AA halls across America, the Twelve Steps are posted, along with what is called the Twelve Traditions. The Traditions outline the general format of operations for this organization. The second tradition states, "For our group purpose there is but one ultimate authority - a loving God as he may express himself in our group conscience. Our leaders are but trusted servants; they do not govern."(Wilson 546). Pictures of Dr. Bob Smith and Bill Wilson are also found hanging within the halls. These two individuals have had some sort of, "sainthood," bestowed upon them and are revered among members. Usually the "Serenity Prayer," is also posted. This is a prayer to God and in some meetings, is recited by the participants. In some meetings, the Lord's Prayer is recited.  
 
The Big Book is readily available and is usually carried by members. It is also sold within the halls; Along with other AA related literature.  
 
Since this book is considered sacred text, a meeting always contains some readings from it; Usually out of chapter five, "How it Works." Some meetings are completely dedicated to the study of this book; Similar to Bible studies that are available in Christian churches.  
 
Through its own writings, AA denies any affiliation with any sect or denomination and regards itself as a purely spiritual entity(Defining AA).  
 
There is even a chapter in the Big Book entitled, "We Agnostics," that attempts to deal with the subject(Wilson 57). However, this chapter makes many references to God and spirituality and concludes with the statement, "When we drew near to him, he disclosed himself to us."  
 
With the evidence presented, AA is clearly a religion. Several court cases have established this fact. One in particular is the case of Griffin vs. Coughlin in the New York Court of Appeals dated June 11, 1996. It was found that the substance abuse program then in use by the New York Department of Corrections was deemed unconstitutional because, "after a fair reading of the doctrinal literature, of Alcoholics Anonymous, the 12-step program was found to be unequivocally religious."(Rational Recovery). In a 1994 case in Federal Court, (O'Conner vs. Orange County and the State of California), AA was found to be religious and the State of California must now offer alternatives to twelve step programs(Rational Recovery).  
 
Many other cases exist throughout the country and will continue. This is in part due to the US Constitution and First Amendment rights that require a Separation of Church and State. Included in this would be the possibility that mandatory 12-Step attendance could be construed as an Establishment of a Religion by the Government(Amendment 1).  
 
In most cases, a person is introduced to AA through an outside source. This may be by the court system, a company or corporation employee assistance program, college or university assistance offices and, in some cases, the family of the person that has an addiction.  
 
The AA organization and the members associated with it are self-absorbed. They believe that their organization is the only answer for the addiction problem.  
 
They seem to act as the ultimate authority and reject other programs or solutions to addiction. They will show a marked hostility towards the alternative treatment programs that exist.  
 
These alternative programs include, but are not limited to, Rational Recovery, Moderation Management, Aversion Therapy and, Secular Organizations for Sobriety. AA has also rejected some experimental programs.  
 
The reality is that no program is 100% effective and that includes AA. Actually, any statistical study is usually flawed. It has been observed that at least half of the individuals that go to AA meetings are under some sort of coercion; Either by the courts or because of a job related problem. Those individuals may not participate with the program. And some individuals may still be actively involved in some sort of addiction. Since AA has no idea how many member they have and they do not survey individual members, most studies have been done on a limited number of people(Membership). Some studies on a limited number of people have shown AA to be effective. Other studies have shown alternative programs to be just as effective as AA. In some studies, AA members went back to their addiction more often. It all depends on your point of view.  
 
A major problem with AA and some of the alternative programs is that they have no professional guidance. This is particularly true within the AA group environment.  
 
Since AA relies on the philosophy of, "one drunk helping another," any individual can be placed in charge of another to assist them in working the program(Defining AA).  
 
If a person is mentally ill or unstable in any way, the advice that they get could cause many problems. Some of the mentally ill are on psychotropic drugs that help them maintain a balance. Older AA members could regard this as some sort of drug abuse.  
They may even tell the mentally ill to stop taking their medication. This can have catastrophic results. If a person is mentally ill and they get the wrong advice from an uneducated person, they may do something drastic. It has been known to happen.  
 
The AA meeting itself can be a dangerous environment. Although AA stresses nonviolence, many violent people may be in attendance. It is not uncommon to have individuals that were just released from prison to be in attendance. Wanted criminals also may be present. People that are under the influence of all forms of substances are known to attend. Street people, drug dealers and, prostitutes. The list goes on and on. Before and after the meeting, the parking lot may have drug deals and prostitution. Other crimes may also be prevalent. Some meetings may be safer than others but people could find themselves in an unsafe environment.  
 
AA is a dangerous place for women. Some of the members may use coercion to obtain sex from the new women that attend. The slang term for this is Thirteenth Stepping.  
 
Any person that has an addiction problem also has a degree of emotional problems. Weaker individuals are easy prey.  
 
Since the AA religion does not have high moral standards, many immoral activities are present. This religion may use Christian prayers and some Christian doctrine but they are not Christian. The language that is used in the meeting can at times be very profane.  
 
Since there are meetings that are specifically for the gay and lesbian population, people from a Christian background may find the organization particularly offensive.  
 
The actual Christians that go to meeting may be at times, ridiculed for their belief system. At times, they may be publicly criticized. This may be because the Big Book is placed above and beyond the Bible.  
 
Attempts are often made by the AA members to discount a Christian's beliefs. Members of the Catholic Church may find AA to against their religion. This is due to the fact that some Catholics believe it to be a sin to worship in another denomination.  
Family members of those individuals that are coerced into AA are sometimes targeted. Treatment centers regard them as sick and usually recommend ALANON or ALATEEN.  
 
These organizations are related to AA and utilize the same basic philosophy. They will use terms such as codependency or co-alcoholic. They follow the same basic 12-step format.  
 
Some individuals in AA actually believe that the entire population of the planet should be involved in a twelve-step program. These individuals usually have been in the organization for an extended period of time and may have actually become addicted to the program. They have also become completely absorbed into the AA philosophy.  
 
Public and private institutions that openly support the AA organization may be in violation of the law or possibly be involved in something that could be considered unethical. Here is a partial list of what may be wrong with institutional support of the AA religion.  
 
*Court decisions that mandate treatment and AA attendance as a condition of parole or probation could violate an individuals constitutional right to freedom of religion and the separation of church and state(Amendment 1).  
 
*Federal, state and, local offices that provide space or fund programs specifically for the AA organization and its philosophy are in essence promoting and funding a religious entity.  
 
*Public and private educational institutions with student assistance programs that only include the AA philosophy and information on it are clearly providing only one solution and could be promoting a religion.  
 
*Churches that offer space for AA meetings are allowing another religion to practice a faith within their building. This may conflict with their own doctrine. Since AA meetings may have low moral standards, there could be negative repercussions.  
 
*Company and Corporation employee assistance programs that only offer the AA format are singling out only one solution. They could be promoting a religion.  
 
*Medical and Psychological care providers that only present the AA organization as a solution for addiction may be depriving patients of other valuable resources. In some cases they may be prescribing a religion.  
 
Within this country everyone has the right to choose a course of treatment for an illness. It is imperative that they choose it wisely. Since several options are available for the treatment of addiction, it would be wise to investigate and select the best possible program; Based upon an individuals needs. The citizens of this country also have the right to worship in any religion that they choose. Based upon the information presented, the AA organization is a treatment for addiction and it is also a religion. It should be treated as such.  
 
Work Cited  
AA Web Site. "The Birth of AA and its Growth in US/Canada." AA Online. 1999. <a href="http://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org/" target="_top">http://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org</a>. (11/06/99).  
AA Web Site. "Defining AA." AA Online. 1999. <a href="http://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org/" target="_top">http://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org</a>. (11/06/99).  
AA Web Site. "Membership." AA Online. 1999. <a href="http://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org/" target="_top">http://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org</a>. (11/06/99).  
"Griffin vs. Coughlin." Rational Recovery Political and Legal Action Network. Online. 1999. <a href="http://www.rational.org/" target="_top">http://www.rational.org</a>. (11/06/99).  
"O'Conner vs. Orange County and the State of California." Rational Recovery Political and Legal Action Network. Online. 1999. <a href="http://www.rational.org/" target="_top">http://www.rational.org</a>. (11/06/99).  
Ragge, Ken. "In the Beginning." The Real AA, Behind the myth of 12 Step Recovery. Tucson, Arizona: Sharp Press, 1998.  
US Government. "US Constitution, Amendment 1." Compton's Interactive Encyclopedia. 1999 ed. CD-ROM. Cambridge, Ma.: The Learning Company, 1998.  
Wilson, Bill. Alcoholics Anonymous. Third Edition. New York: AA World Services, 1976.

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