Stealth: i agree how other religions open their doors to these kind of programs, whereas the JW's tend to close the door on it. That said there is am Awake article that leaves the decision up to yourself, but it is frowned upon by the rank and file.
Jeff T: thank you. It was initially because of you, JK and Maddie that made me realise that i wasn't the only ex jw attending AA. I've since met a couple of ex jw'ers in AA. Although most of us seem to have issues with step3 initially, i now realise that i'm not alone in this, that a number of people for whole host of reasons had similar issues
Snowbird: Thank you, i've always noticed your posts even when i come here just to browse.
Bandontherun: I agree there is a great support and an abibility to find your own voice.
Mouthy/Grace: Thank you. Sorry to hear about your Grandson. I wouldn't necessarily say that i have made it, one thing i learned in AA is to take things one day at a time, the only end goal is today, not tomorrow. I had a relapse about a year ago, basically after 2 years without a drink i thought i'd be okay just to have one or two drinks on a night out...how wrong was i, as within a week i was drinking at home on my own again. It was what i needed though to give me a kick up the backside and make me realise that no matter how long igo, never to get complacent. It is a disease that kids us at times we've made it. I feel for you, unfortunately for you though he has to WANT it, recovery cant be forced upon anyone, i wish it could. I'd love to give sobriety out as if it were a pill to some who are close to me, but it just doesn't work that way as you well know.
Still thinking: that sounds great, thanks for your post. I wish your partner and father well in their recovery.
Thanks for your kind words.
Paul