Today in AA History: July 4, 1935
Bill D. – AA Number 3 – Checks out of Akron City Hospital.
“Bill D., after some initial resistance, responded well to their suggestions. when he left the hospital on July 4, 1935, he, like the two men who called on him, was a free man.” pg. 154 of PASS IT ON… The Story of Bill Wilson and How the AA Message Reached the World
Bill W. and Dr. Bob had hope that they had discovered a program for living that had not only given them permanent sobriety but would be the key to freedom for those that would follow. Today, as we celebrate our country’s independence from a tyrannical government I pause in gratitude to celebrate the gift of freedom from the yoke of addiction. As paradoxical as it may seem, true freedom and independence could only be gained by total surrender and acceptance. After admitting that I was powerless over my addictions and that I needed a power greater than myself to restore me to sanity, only then was I able to accept the recovery fellowship and the 12 steps of transformation.
“If we are painstaking about this phase of our development, we will be amazed before we are halfway through. We are going to know a new freedom and a new happiness.” Big Book of AA, pg. 83. Today, I not only have the freedom from alcohol, drugs, obsession, and fear. But I now have the freedom to choose sobriety, serenity, unity, love, and the freedom to be the best me I can.
My brother Jeff K., who just celebrated his 1 year sobriety birthday, said it better than I could hope to in his group text today:
“Today I thanked God for freedom. Not only the freedom we collectively celebrate on this important holiday but the personal freedom I have today. Freedom from drugs and alcohol. Freedom from the bondage of self. May you all experience the joy of freedom today. Loving thoughts”
With Gratitude,
Mark Kloster
Alumni Coordinator
