Bill Wilson wrote the 11th chapter in the fall of 1938, while still wrestling with other chapters of the book. Years later, in the book “Alcoholics Anonymous Comes of Age”, Bill admitted to having been secretly worried during that time about getting the book finished. “I was exhausted,” he said. “On many a day I felt like throwing the book out the window.” Of course, he persevered, and A Vision for You synthesized the substance of previous chapters into an inspiring narrative of the AA’s brief history and the program of recovery. Chapter 11 also encouraged the carrying of the AA message to isolated alcoholics, while providing an ambitious, yet practical plan for AA fellowship and the ultimate formation Alcoholics Anonymous groups around the country.

A large portion of Chapter 11 is devoted to Bill’s historical account of AA’s formation in Akron, Ohio, referenced in other chapters and throughout the stories in the First Edition. It offered a concise model for individuals to use to share their recovery with others and coalesce into mutually supportive groups of recovering alcoholics. During the relatively short period of AA’s actual existence, the collective success of the Akron groups, helping Alcoholics recover, was to become emblematic of the hope, power, and reach of Alcoholics Anonymous in the coming years. In many ways, it speaks to the ultimate brilliance of the Big Book and the  timeless impact of its message for millions of alcoholics around the world.

Howard L, sober since January 1988, presents an inspired reading of the Big Book and encourages listeners to revisit earlier podcast episodes that feature the main chapters and stories in the First Edition of the Big Book. Enjoy listening on our website, BigBookPodcast.com, or download and subscribe to the podcast for free at Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. If you have a minute, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Also join our facebook group, Big Book Podcast Listeners, where you can share your thoughts and experiences with fellow listeners.