The Difference Between an Atheist and an Agnostic in AA – Robbie W.

About This Speaker Tape

A three-time convicted felon and former street hoodlum from the Jersey Shore Robbie W. delivers a high-energy no-nonsense breakdown of Steps Two and Three. He rejects the 'middle-of-the-road' sobriety of the 'in-and-outers,' insisting instead on a total commitment to the Big Book.

Through a series of blunt anecdotes—including a confrontation with an atheist barber and a lesson on enthusiasm from the late Clancy E.—he argues that spiritual awakening isn't a luxury but a survival requirement. He frames the recovery process as becoming a 'Higher Power agent,' moving from the wreckage of jails and mental hospitals to a life of altruism. He warns against the traps of sarcasm and material possessions urging newcomers to 'sharpen their axes' through meditation and study so they don't burn out.

He closes with a plea for newcomers to seize the program like a drowning man grabs a life preserver trading the bondage of self for a life of service.

Topics

Timestamps

• 0:00 Robbie W. opens with his sobriety date (Oct 31, 1983) and a warning against 'middle-of-the-road' sobriety.
• 2:15 The group participates in the 'Big Book Pledge,' a ritual Robbie W. wrote to commit to the program of action.
• 7:45 Laughter: Robbie W. tells the 'Barber Story' to illustrate the nature of atheism and faith.
• 13:20 Discussion of Step 2 and the definition of an alcoholic based on page 44 of the Big Book.
• 18:10 Robbie W. shares his history as a 'street guy' and three-time convicted felon, emphasizing the need for a spiritual basis.
• 23:40 A tribute to Clancy E. and a lesson on the Greek root of 'enthusiasm' (Higher Power within).
• 31:15 Step 3 breakdown: The 'Chop Wood' story and the importance of 'sharpening the axe' through spiritual maintenance.
• 38:50 Robbie W. discusses the danger of 'balking'u2014starting the program but stopping before completion.
• 44:10 The 'Higher Power Agent' concept: Turning the will over to a Higher Power to become a tool for helping others.
• 48:30 Closing prayer and a call for newcomers to seize the program like a 'life preserver'.