"AA or Bust" is a phrase that implies a person's determination to succeed in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or achieve sobriety at any cost, without considering other potential methods or support systems. In other words, it suggests that AA is the only way to overcome alcohol addiction, and any alternative approaches are not worth considering.
Some people find this phrase offensive at AA meetings for a few reasons:
Exclusivity: The phrase implies that AA is the only valid or effective method for overcoming alcohol addiction, which dismisses the experiences and success stories of those who have found help and support through other means, such as therapy, counseling, support groups, or medical interventions.
Dogmatism: The phrase can be interpreted as promoting a dogmatic view of recovery, disregarding the fact that different individuals may have different needs and respond to various approaches.
Respect for Personal Choices: Recovery is a personal journey, and what works for one person might not work for another. Using a phrase like "AA or Bust" can be seen as dismissive of individual choices and autonomy in deciding the best path to recovery.
Inclusivity: AA meetings are meant to be inclusive and welcoming to anyone seeking help for alcohol addiction. Using a phrase that emphasizes one approach over others may alienate individuals who have had different experiences or are exploring multiple avenues for recovery.
Open-Mindedness: Many AA members embrace the principle of open-mindedness, recognizing that recovery can take various forms and that different methods might be helpful for different people. The phrase "AA or Bust" may run counter to this spirit of open-mindedness.
It's essential to respect the diversity of experiences and recovery paths within AA meetings and the broader recovery community. Different people find healing and sobriety through different means, and no single approach suits everyone. In AA meetings, the focus is on support, understanding, and empathy for those who are working toward a healthier, sober life, regardless of the specific path they choose to follow.