Michael wrote a book directed at irreligious newcomers to 12-Step recovery. Michael arrived here in the 90s as a nonbeliever and he wondered if he could fit is without being closeted about his sincerely held worldview, nor ruffling the feathers of the faith-healing devotees in the room. He found a way, but like so much in mutual-aid, not without help and direction of other like-minded people with alcohol (and other drugs) use disorder. Now he's written a booklet that shares his experience and some contemporary alternatives for people who want sobriety - not a white-light experience. 

Recently a Great Britain member survey revealed that 65% of members are secular when it comers to the idea of a higher power. Two thirds of AA do not believe in a prayer-answering, sobriety-granting supernatural being.  While it is easy to compare and say, sure most Europeans are atheist so of course AA is the same, but USA is different. Yes, America is not the same, but how different? How many atheists (and/or agnostics) are there in USA on this side of the Atlantic who are in AA? If it's not 2/3, is it 1/2, one in ten, what? Well I think we should ask in our next membership survey the same as they asked in Great Britain. And here's what I'm thinking: are most of the atheists, or non-theists if you prefer, in secular AA or in mainstream AA? On episode 70, non-alcoholic trustee Mani Mehdikhani who wrote the questions for the membership survey was surprised at how many people in AA who believe in the power of example or the group or the process but not a prayer-answering, sobriety-granting higher power. If he was surprised how irreligious Great Britain AA is, would we be surprised how atheist USA AA is?

Today, on Episode 71 of Rebellion Dogs Publishing podcast, Michael has been to secular AA meetings, but he's not a regular. He goes to regular, everyday AA and that's his jam. Michael wrote a Living Sober-size booklet for newcomers who, like him, wonder how their non-theistic views will work out in AA. It's a great chat - I had never met Michael but we talk about a lot and it's a hoot. 

So, I think he is more typical of an AA atheist than I am.  I think - although I do not know - that most atheists make do and/or prefer regular AA instead of secular focused AA. What do you think? 

Listen first if you like and tell me which one of us sounds more like average Joe or average Michael atheist AA member. 

Our musical guest is another new-for-2023 offering from Your Ex And I (YXNI) from Montreal with their synth pop tune "To all the Loves."