The question of whether people who have been sober for years should be kicked out of AA meetings is a contentious one and there are different viewpoints on the matter.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) follows a tradition of inclusivity, and the fellowship welcomes anyone with a desire to stop drinking. The idea is that members can support and learn from each other's experiences, regardless of how long they have been sober. Here are a few points to consider:
Support and Experience Sharing: Individuals who have been sober for years can provide valuable support, encouragement, and insights to those who are still struggling with alcoholism. Their experiences and journey towards recovery can serve as an inspiration to others.
Maintaining Sobriety: Remaining connected to a sober community can help those who have achieved long-term sobriety to stay on track and maintain their recovery. Isolation or a sense of disconnection may increase the risk of relapse.
Humility and Gratitude: Members who have been sober for a significant period of time often express gratitude for the ongoing support they receive at AA meetings. They may also find it humbling to be reminded of the challenges they overcame.
Unity and Fellowship: AA emphasizes unity and fellowship among its members. By keeping the group inclusive and supportive, it promotes a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.
Personal Responsibility: Ultimately, it is up to individual AA groups to decide how they want to handle this situation. Some groups might encourage those with long-term sobriety to attend, while others may have different guidelines.
However, it's important to consider that AA meetings may vary in format, and some groups might focus more on newcomers and early recovery. In larger meetings, there may be enough space and time for both newcomers and those with long-term sobriety to share their experiences.
The primary goal of AA meetings is to provide a safe space for individuals to address their struggles with alcohol and work towards recovery. If a group feels that certain practices are not aligning with their objectives, they may discuss and adapt their approach. Ultimately, the decision rests with each individual AA group and its members.