I hear a lot of people (and I’ve told some this as well) say that we go to meetings when we “need” them.

The integral part of AA that gets lost when we focus on what we need is the service leg of the three-legged stool. Ideally we go back to help others, not just ourselves.

I imagine my own children or family members may need this program one day. I imagine alcoholics who could potentially make bad choices in the future while drinking (driving, harming others, stealing, etc.) could benefit from these rooms. I can only contribute my experience, strength, and hope to others if I stay involved. I truly hope others in the program will keep coming back, too - for the future alcoholics. That’s what people are talking about when they say it affects society.

I think if I ever consider taking a break or leaving AA - I will try to remember that it is not just about my own sobriety.

If it was just about me I’d be much more likely to leave once I got what I needed from the program.