Page 165 - The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous

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144 ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS
solve his problem. To you, some of the ideas which
it contains are novel. Perhaps you are not quite in
sympathy with the approach we suggest. By no means
do we offer it as the last word on this subject, but so
far as we are concerned, it has worked with us. After
all, are you not looking for results rather than meth­
ods? Whether your employee likes it or not, he will
learn the grim truth about alcoholism. That won’t
hurt him a bit, even though he does not go for this
remedy.
We suggest you draw the book to the attention of
the doctor who is to attend your patient during treat­
ment. If the book is read the moment the patient is
able, while acutely depressed, realization of his condi­
tion may come to him.
We hope the doctor will tell the patient the truth
about his condition, whatever that happens to be.
When the man is presented with this volume it is best
that no one tell him he must abide by its suggestions.
The man must decide for himself.
You are betting, of course, that your changed atti­
tude plus the contents of this book will turn the trick.
In some cases it will, and in others it may not. But
we think that if you persevere, the percentage of suc­
cesses will gratify you. As our work spreads and our
numbers increase, we hope your employees may be
put in personal contact with some of us. Meanwhile,
we are sure a great deal can be accomplished by the
use of the book alone.
On your employee’s return, talk with him. Ask him
if he thinks he has the answer. If he feels free to
discuss his problems with you, if he knows you under­