This will not be an attempt to question anyone's understanding, nor in any way make an attempt to influence anyone. It's open to your experiential interpretations, your personal choices, your understanding of what is Ok for you. Free to choose is paramount with anything regarding the topic of substance abuse, nothing changes that, until death.
Recently and for some years there have been numerous claims written by or about one reporter, Gabrielle Glaser with articles like the one found here: http://leavingaa.com/... and here: http://www.propublica.org/... and here: http://www.drinkingdiaries.com/...
I found a reason to start reading these because I'm aware of people who have succeeded in AA, and those who have failed. If there's 2 sides to the story so be it, but if the foment of derision for AA has roots in a marketing strategy, then concern for the consequences percolates.
By now, few older adults have been unaffected by someone who faced consequences regarding drinking of drug abuse. Segue to the common knowledge that AA or other programs have arisen to help those and we can find common ground to discuss some experience in a rational manner. We don't have to pique controversy with discussion, keep it relevant to yourself, some indignation is expected, either way. I don't expect universal agreement, rather considerate mindfulness.
Read this article that is my first reading of Gabrielle Glaser: http://www.msn.com/...
Please refrain from controversial ideology and for atheists realize that God does not have to be the being of religion, rather of rational decision such as Good Orderly Direction. That is acceptable toward maintaining a relationship with a higher power. One might accept this when having an open mind regarding a subject which may hold life or death as a consequence.
Do I go to far to relay that substance abuse could lead to ending life? You tell me, do I?