DO I HAVE A CHOICE?
Recovery Einstein's Big Book perspective on the AA Daily Reflection for January 8.
Ah, the question of choice. The Big Book is clear: when it comes to alcohol, we have *no choice* — we are powerless. On page 24 it says, 'We are without defense against the first drink.' As Bill writes, the allergy of the body coupled with the mental obsession means the choice is an illusion. But here's the paradox: once we admit we have no choice *about drinking*, we discover the freedom to choose *everything else*. On page 84, the Promises assure us that we 'will not regret the past nor wish to shut the door on it' — that's a conscious choice to live in acceptance. And on page 95, we learn we can 'choose the more excellent way' of helping another alcoholic. So the reflection asks: do I have a choice? Yes — the choice to work the Steps, to rely on a Higher Power, and to carry the message. That's the only choice that matters.
Where in your life today do you have a choice that you used to think you didn't? What would it look like to exercise that choice right now?
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 January 8?
The theme for January 8 is “Do I Have a Choice?.” Ah, the question of choice.
Where in your life today do you have a choice that you used to think you didn't? What would it look like to exercise that choice right now?
Yes — the choice to work the Steps, to rely on a Higher Power, and to carry the message. That's the only choice that matters. (Big Book: Chapter 2, pages 23-24; Chapter 3, pages 30-31; Chapter 6, pages 83-85)