Through the example and friendship of the recovered alcoholics in A.A., new members are encouraged to stay away from a drink "one day at a time," as everyone in A.A. does. Instead of "swearing off forever" or worrying about whether they will be sober tomorrow, people in A.A. concentrate on not drinking right now - today.

By keeping alcohol out of their systems, newcomers take care of one part of their illness - their bodies have a chance to get well. There is another part. If they are going to stay sober, they need healthy minds and healthy emotions, too. So they begin to straighten out their confused thinking and unhappy feelings by following A.A.'s "Twelve Steps" to recovery. These Steps suggest ideas and actions that can guide alcoholics toward happy and useful lives.

To be in touch with other members and to learn about recovery, new members go to A.A. meetings regularly.