Page 16 - The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous

approached, as he has then a better chance of
understanding and accepting what we have to offer.

The doctor writes:

The subject presented in this book seems to me to be of
paramount importance to those afflicted with alcoholic
addiction.

I say this after many years’ experience as Medical Director
of one of the oldest hospitals in the country treating
alcoholic and drug addiction.

There was, therefore, a sense of real satisfaction when I
was asked to contribute a few words on a subject which is
covered in such masterly detail in these pages.

We doctors have realized for a long time that some form of
moral psychology was of urgent importance to alcoholics,
but its application presented difficulties beyond our
conception. What with our ultra-modern standards, our
scientific approach to everything, we are perhaps not well
equipped to apply the powers of good that lie outside our
synthetic knowledge.

Many years ago one of the leading contributors to this book
came under our care in this hospital and while here he
acquired some ideas which he put into practical application
at once.

Later, he requested the privilege of being allowed to tell
his story to other patients here and with some misgiving,
we consented. The cases we have followed through have
been most interesting; in fact, many of them are amazing.
The unselfishness of these men as we have come to know
them, the entire absence of profit motive, and their
community spirit, is indeed inspiring to one who has