FREEDOM FROM "KING ALCOHOL"

Freedom from 'King Alcohol' is at the heart of recovery. In the Big Book, we read about the 'uncontrollable craving' that enslaves us [Page 30]. Step One breaks this illusion of control, admitting we are powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable. This is the foundation for liberation. As we work the Steps, we find the Promises come true: 'We are going to know a new freedom and a new happiness' [Page 83]. That freedom is not just from drinking, but from the obsession with drinking. The Promises continue: 'We will lose interest in selfish things and gain interest in our fellows' [Page 84]. King Alcohol is dethroned when we replace self-will with God's will. We no longer need to fight the urge; we are restored to sanity. Each day we stay sober is a day of freedom from that tyrant.