It perverts the end of society and unfits us all those distinguishing and exquisite feelings which are the cordial of life and the noblest privileges of humanity. Ye will cease to be a Nation; Ye will have neither heads to direct nor hands to protect. With this diabolical Juice undermining all the power of your bodies and minds.

Deadly Medicine   Creek

We alcoholics are men and women who have lost the ability to control our drinking. We know that no real alcoholic ever recovers control. All of us felt at times we were regaining control, but such intervals--usually brief--were inevitably followed by still less control, which led in time to pitiful and incomprehensible demoralization. We are convinced to a man that alcoholics of our type are in the grip of a progressive illness. Over any considerable period we get worse, never better.

Big Book  pg. 30

 
The less people tolerated us, the more we withdrew from society, from life itself. As we became subjects of King Alcohol, shivering denizens of his mad realm, the chilling vapor that is loneliness settled down. It thickened, ever becoming blacker. Some of us sought out sordid places, hoping to find understanding companionship and approval. Momentarily we did--then would come oblivion and the awful awakening to face the hideous Four Horsemen--Terror, Bewilderment, Frustration, Despair. Unhappy drinkers who read this page will understand!

Big Book  pg. 151

Grandfather, free me, free me of that bondage I created with alcohol, let me experience the noble and exquisite feelings You have created and given to me as part of your creation. The Power is yours, Grandfather, thank you Grandfather.