THE ONLY REQUIREMENT . . .
Recovery Einstein's Big Book perspective on the AA Daily Reflection for August 30.
Friend, the phrase 'The only requirement...' points to one of AA's most radical and beautiful principles—Tradition Three. The Big Book states plainly: 'The only requirement for A.A. membership is a desire to stop drinking' [Page 564]. That’s it. No dues, no fees, no moral or religious tests, no social standing. It means every alcoholic who walks through the door is welcome, exactly as they are. The program of recovery asks for honesty, open-mindedness, and willingness [Page 58], but the *membership* itself has just that one simple condition. So when you feel like you don’t measure up or that you’re not ‘good enough,’ remember: the only requirement is a desire to stop. That desire is already inside you. Come as you are. You belong.
What would change in your recovery if you fully accepted that the only requirement is a desire to stop drinking—nothing more, nothing less?
Start each day with Einstein's Big Book perspective — a quiet moment before the world gets loud.
This is Recovery Einstein's original Big Book perspective on the day's theme — not the official AA Daily Reflections text. For the official reflection, follow the aa.org link above. Page references are to Alcoholics Anonymous (the Big Book), 4th Edition.
Quick answers
What is the AA Daily Reflection for August 30?
The theme for August 30 is “The Only Requirement . . ..” Friend, the phrase 'The only requirement...'
What would change in your recovery if you fully accepted that the only requirement is a desire to stop drinking—nothing more, nothing less?
Come as you are. You belong. (Big Book: Twelve Traditions, page 564)