“loneliness” how to cope with...
They did not need to tell me. I knew, and almost
welcomed the idea. It was a devastating blow to my8 ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS
pride. I, who had thought so well of myself and my
abilities, of my capacity to surmount obstacles, was
cornered at last. Now I was to plunge into the dark,
joining that endless procession of sots who had gone
on before. I thought of my poor wife. There had been
much happiness after all. What would I not give to
make amends. But that was over now.
No words can tell of the loneliness and despair I
found in that bitter morass of self-pity. Quicksand
stretched around me in all directions. I had met my
match. I had been overwhelmed. Alcohol was my
master.
Trembling, I stepped from the hospital a broken
man. Fear sobered me for a bit. Then came the insidi-
ous insanity of that first drink, and on Armistice Day
1934, I was off again. Everyone became resigned to
the certainty that I would have to be shut up some-
where, or would stumble along to a miserable end.
How dark it is before the dawn!
The "Big Book" of Alcoholics Anonymous, formally known as "Alcoholics Anonymous," offers a path to overcoming loneliness by emphasizing community, service, and spiritual growth. It suggests that active participation in the AA program, including attending meetings, working the 12 Steps, and helping others, provides a solution to loneliness by fostering connection and a sense of belonging.
Here's a breakdown of how AA addresses loneliness:
-
Community and Fellowship:
Working with Others
Service -
Spiritual Growth and a Higher Power:
• Turning to a Higher Power
• Spiritual Principles -
Action and Service:
Moving Beyond Self:
Finding Purpose -
Acceptance:
-
Living a Balanced Life:
• Avoiding Fatigue and Hunger
• Seeking Help
By actively participating in the AA program, individuals can find a supportive community, develop a sense of purpose, and experience the transformative power of connection, ultimately leading to a life free from the grip of loneliness.