The Language of the Heart: Bill W.'s Grapevine Writings

Great book for recovery libraries.I was pleasantly surprised to see that this book is fairly large and thick mini mini great nuggets of wisdom and truth in this book it’s a beautiful thing to have to your library in addition to the original book from Bill and Bob which is Alcoholics Anonymous this book in particular deals more with the meaty part of recovery and getting down to the heart of the matter hence the name and as we all know love and tolerance must be our code and in that I find that this book has mini mini mini pearls of love truth honesty realness just a great read it’s a bit not like the other books I’ve read for me personally I like things a little bit more organized but it’s a little bit do you have to really dig in in order to get to the parts that are shared in meetings etc. etc. etc.

If you’re thinking about getting it you probably just should. Arrived quickly too!

This is a great book for therapists as a resource for support groups and sufferers of addiction. Realize, this is a dated book but much like a classic, elements hold true today.

Step back in time and read Bill W.’s personal writings to the grapevine as well traditions and the reasoning behind each one being created. As far as recovery this book not only provides insight but can be used as a vital tool to help progress and ensure sobriety. Such a great read and I find myself going to it all the time as well gifting them to others. Highly recommend

One of my favorite recovery books

It took me awhile, but good AA read. I know there is a lot more out there. So pass it on

Bill details examples of how the pioneers, mentors, and wise advisors helped craft what became the 12 Traditions which govern AA. By experience and keen understanding of human nature and the alcoholic personality, this loose committee over time established a way of life for the global organization that works. Their understanding that they were making something that had to pass the test of time, no matter the circumstance, spurred them to research other failed attempts so as to avoid earlier mistakes. Notable were the 19th Century Washingtonians who lacked the needed structure to overcome outside pressures. AA has established a seeming foolproof way that is fascinating reading. It is true that "anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all our traditions, ever reminding us to place principles before personalities." It is a God story for the ages.

Awesome book that has been incredibly helpful to my recovery. After reading the 12&12 for many years I was looking for some reading that would increase my knowledge and understanding of the traditions. Well, this has done that and more. Not a book to read in one sitting of course, but I didn't buy it hoping to do that. I have purchased this book for many friends in the program as well. If you are ambitious enough to learn beyond 164 pages of the big book and are willing to read something that technically isn't conference approved literature, you won't find anything better than The Language of the Heart.*UPDATE 2/12/2022*Still getting tons of use out of this book! I started an online women's literature meeting at the beginning of the pandemic. After going through the big book and 12 and 12 a couple of times, we decided to read LOH. The ladies and I are LOVING it. Thanks, Bill! And thank God for AA.