The Big Book

In April 1939 was born the first Big Book
Alcoholics started coming forth to take a look
At a disease they had but knew nothing about
Some took hold immediately, Others left in doubt
Spring of 1940 AA dined with Rockefeller
Then we were featured in the post, The Big Book became a seller
By March of 1941 2,000 had joined our ranks
At the close of this same year 8,000 could give thanks
Then problems and confusion grew in A.A.'s adolescence
To keep A.A. in unity, 12 traditions made their presence
Traditions made in hopes alcoholics could work together
We had to either unify or pass off the scene forever
From the first printing to the second, passed sixteen years
150,000 drunks had learned to face their fears
Fifty percent of those got sober and stayed that way
Twenty-Five percent went back out before they made their stay
By March of 1976 the Third Edition hit hte street
More than a million alcoholics came to admit defeat
By 1988 in 114 countries our voice is heard
One-Fifth under age 30, Our women number One-Third
We're an accurate cross section of America and distant lands
Of all races, creeds and colors, Of all religious bands
One day while I was traveling aboard a local bus
I overheard two people talk, They were two of us
Two days while on this poem I worked away
I looked up from my table to see a member of A.A.
We belong to a wonderful fellowship, Learning how to cope
Where we're from, Where we are now, Experience, Strength and Hope
I thank God for The Big Book being born to guide my way
For every member that I meet, For this fellowship A.A.

Brett Martin Smith © 1995