Newt Gingrich - Big Book Thumper?

by mhurst220 — last modified Nov 30, 2011 02:40 PM

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In this video excerpt Newt Gingrich talks about the spiritual benefits of reading the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous.

In this Youtube video, Newt Gingrich discusses a "hollow" feeling that he experienced at a previous time in his life (not specified how long ago).

At that time, a banker friend of his from Georgia gave him "the two books that make up Alcoholics Anonymous." It is not clear if he is referring to the two "sections" of the Big Book or if he is referring to the Big Book and the "Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions." Newt indicates that he did not himself struggle with alcoholism.

Newt continues to describe the transformative effect it had upon him and goes on to say:

"Had I not had that intervention, I might have collapsed totally. That was the beginning of turning my life around."

No matter what you may think of Newt's ideologies (or personal life choices), he is a unique and strong individual and currently appears to be the GOP candidate of choice for 2012.

Watch the video to see the footage:

Newt Gingrich

Posted by Avi Satz at Nov 30, 2011 05:55 PM

I love this, whether he is an alcoholic or not really doesn't matter. I appreciate what he said and how he found his own help through the spiritual principles of the program. I personally believe that the 12 Steps can apply to anyone whether in the grips of alcoholism/addiction or not. Great to hear him talk about the Big Book!

Avinash Satz

Alcoholism

Posted by Don Siedenburg at Dec 12, 2011 12:28 PM

In my 20 year bout with alcohol, I came to the conclusion that I had to stop consuming beer altogether. Although I will be an alcoholic the rest of my life, I haven't had a drink since May of l983. In my opinion, if Mr. Gingrich still consumes alcohol beverages, he has a problem.

Big Book

Posted by james g at Dec 14, 2011 03:26 PM

The 12 steps apply to those who buy into the saving higher power (aka God). His reading of the bible and proclaiming THAT as his saving grace would fit in the same slot. Oh yeah, and the tea baggers would find his statements most satisfying. Baloney!

Newt and Alcohol

Posted by Palmyra Local at Jan 23, 2012 09:41 AM

I disagree - it does make a difference if he's an alcoholic or not. Yes, he read the Big Book. That is awesome. Yes, the BB and AA can apply to anybody. The steps are very healing. HOWEVER, to me he appears to be a "dry" alcoholic. That is very dangerous for this country!!