I Am Responsible: The Hand of AA

A special collection of Grapevine stories on the impact of AA's Responsibility Declaration for both individuals and the Fellowship as a whole.

AA's Responsibility Declaration states: "I am responsible. When anyone, anywhere, reaches out for help, I want the hand of AA always to be there. And for that I am responsible." As this important collection shows, each AA strengthens his or her own sobriety with every alcoholic to whom they reach out a hand.

You’ll come away from this meaningful collection of AA Grapevine stories on the impact of AA's Responsibility Declaration both moved and impressed. Including contributions from AA members and eminent nonalcoholic friends of the Fellowship, the thirty-eight stories collected here follow the history of the Responsibility Declaration―written by Grapevine editor Al S., it was first presented at the 1965 AA International Convention in Toronto―tracing its deep meaning for Alcoholics Anonymous. AA co-founder Bill W. spoke of “the immensity of our task and of the responsibilities with which we will always be confronted” when it comes to helping suffering alcoholics. And the Declaration has a deeply personal meaning for many sober alcoholics. One writer puts it: “This statement became a challenge for me, personally bolstering my commitment to remain responsible in all of my endeavors, at home, at work and within the group.”

AA Grapevine is the publisher of the International Journal of Alcoholics Anonymous. Its primary purpose is to carry the AA message to everyone interested in alcoholism through its magazines, websites, books audiobooks and related items.