Bill managed to stay sober for the final 37 years of his life.

During this time he was more commonly known as Bill W. His sober years were not always idyllic, and he went through a couple of bad periods of depression. Despite writing one of the most popular books of all time, he never became rich because of it. Even though he had been so important in the creation of AA he did not always feel comfortable spending time at the meetings. His attendance would always create a fuss, and he would be expected to give a talk. This meant that he was not able to enjoy the same benefits of the group as other members. On his deathbed Bill asked for whisky, but it was not given to him. Bill Wilson died of emphysema and pneumonia in 1971. He had continued to be a heavy smoker throughout his years of sobriety.

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The Search for Spirituality

If you wish to be really wholesome . . . . If you desire to be totally integrated in body and spirit . . . If you want to be the kind of person who can cope with whatever challenges come your way . . . .

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