Anne Smith (Dr. Bob's wife, "Mother of A.A.") and What She Gave A.A. and AAs

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From Anne Smith's Journal, which was actually being taught to AA pioneers and their families, you will see how Anne discussed and explained the "Four Standards" (Honesty, Purity, Unselfishness, and Love). She discussed the "Five C's" (Confidence, Confession, Conviction, Conversion, and Continuance--the heart of the middle steps). She discussed "Surrender," "Restitution," and the power of God. www.dickb.com/annesm.shtml

Probably the most remarkable thing about Anne Smith's Journal was that she began it in 1933 and continued to write in it until 1939. She would share the teachings from it at morning Quiet Time. And she incorporated the major Bible and Oxford Group ideas that Bill W. heard and later was to codify in his Twelve Steps. www.dickb.com/annesm.shtml

My book on Dr. Bob's wife shows how Anne was legendary in her approach to newcomers and especially kind to the wives. In fact, Anne formed the first Women's Group in 1936--long before Al-Anon. And she counseled Bill W.'s wife Lois. See www.dickb.com/annesm.shtml

Several posts about Dr. Bob's wife, Anne Ripley Smith. First, in the Language of the Heart, you'll see that Bill W. called Anne the "Mother of A.A." and a founder of Akron Number One. And now for the journal she kept and the Quiet Time she led each morning at the Smith Home. Anne Smith's Journal 1933-1939 www.dickb.com/annesm.shtml

As newcomers came into earliest A.A., many went to live in the home of Dr. Bob and Anne Smith, 855 Ardmore in Akron. The atmosphere was that of First Century Christianity; and many observers so stated. First, there were daily meetings. Second, there was Christian fellowship with like-minded believers. Third, there were prayer meetings. Fourth, there was Bible study. Fifth there was Quiet Time each morning at the Smith front porch with Anne Smith leading and teaching. Sixth, there was hospitalization where Dr. Bob read the Bible with and to each new person; and, just prior to discharge, Bob quizzed each on whether he believed in God. And when he said, "yes," Dr. Bob had him get out of bed and on his knees and accept Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. See www.dickb.com/annesm.shtml and www.dickb.com/Akron.shtml