In Dr. Bob’s last years, he still attended meetings, despite people asking him to rest. He maintained fellowship to his final years. Despite his final years of life, weakening strength, and every reason not to attend meetings, according to the book “Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers”, Dr. Bob had three reasons he attended meetings. You can use these reasons and apply them in your own life (if you read till the bottom, you will be surprised to also see Dr. Bob’s four reasons for attending meetings, this time from “Alcoholics Anonymous”). A lady named Anne C, recalled someone asking him at this time, “Do you have to go to all these meetings? Why don’t you stay home and conserve your strength?” (Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers, Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, 1980, p. 334). After considering the above question for some time, Dr. Bob came up with an answer.
3 Reasons to Attend Meetings According to the AA Co-Founder Dr. Bob:
1. “The first reason is that this way is working so well. Why should I take a chance on any other way?” (Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers, Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, 1980, p. 334).
2. “The second reason is that I don’t want to deprive myself of the privilege of meeting, greeting, and visiting with fellow alcoholics. It is a pleasure to me.” (Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers, Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, 1980, p. 334).
3. “And the third reason is the most important. I belong at the meeting for the sake of the new man or woman who might walk through that door. I am living proof that A.A. will work as long as I work A.A., and I owe it to the new person to be there. I am the living example.” (Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers, Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, 1980, p. 334).
We encourage everyone all to attend meetings of their choice. Everyone has their own preference, some prefer Alcoholics Anonymous, others NA, some may even do CA or Buddhist meetings. Whichever meetings you decide to choose, it is important you get to them as meetings are highly important.
The importance is reflected in the AA triangle. The 3 parts of the AA triangle represent “Recovery” on the base, “Unity” on the left, and “Service” on the right. Without meetings (unity/service) it will be difficult to have a true recovery (base of the triangle). According to aa.org there are over 100,000 weekly meetings. The availability of meetings, both in person and online should make it easy for one to make their weekly meetings.
Dr. Bob’s 4 Reasons to Attend Meetings (This Time from the AA Big Book):
In “Dr. Bob’s Nightmare” in the “Alcoholics Anonymous” book, Dr. Bob gave four reasons for attending AA: (1) “a sense of duty,” (2) “it is a pleasure,” (3) “because in so doing, I am paying my debt to the man who took time to pass it on to me,” and (4) “because every time I do it, I take out a little more insurance for myself against a slip” (A.A., 2001, p. 181).
How Many Days a Week Should One Attend Meetings?
Dr. Bob’s dedication to attending meetings, even in his final years, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of consistent fellowship in recovery. Just as he remained committed despite physical weakness, many in A.A. find that attending meetings regularly strengthens their sobriety and sense of connection. The ideal number of meetings varies from person to person, but early in recovery, many follow the suggestion of “90 meetings in 90 days” to build a strong foundation. As time goes on, some continue attending daily, while others settle into a routine of several meetings a week to maintain accountability and spiritual growth. Attending at least three to four meetings a week helps reinforce the principles of recovery, while those facing challenges or high-risk situations may benefit from more frequent participation. Dr. Bob’s example highlights that showing up isn’t just about personal benefit—it’s about being present for others and strengthening the unity and service that keep A.A. strong.
We Encourage You to Get to a Meeting Today:
Broward County Intergroup – Serving Alcoholics Anonymous – Broward County AA Meetings
Meetings – Gold Coast Area – NA Meetings Gold Coast
Southeast Florida Meetings – CA Meetings Southeast Florida
Find NA – Narcotics Anonymous World Services – Find NA Meetings in Your Area
Zoom Meetings are Great too:
Browse the Directory of Online Meetings – Online Intergroup of Alcoholics Anonymous