We compulsive overeaters have followed many programs of reducing and weight control and found that no amount of willpower or self-determination can make us stick to a sensible program of eating for any length of time.
We have found that self-reliance failed us. Self-reliance is good, as far as it goes, but it doesn't go far enough. Some of us once had self-confidence, but that didn't solve our eating problem either. We have felt the need and have been asking about a solution to our dilemma. We instinctively knew that the food obsession was only the outward manifestation of a deeper problem.
For us, the Overeaters Anonymous program has been the answer. Rarely has a person failed who has thoroughly followed our path. Those who do not recover are people who can not or will not completely give themselves to this simple program, usually men and women who are constitutionlly incapable of grasping a manner of living which demands rigorous honesty and self-discipline. It is not their falt. Their chances are less than average. There are those, too who suffer from grave emotional and mental disorders, but many of them do recover if they have the capacity to be honest.
Our stories disclose in a general way what we used to be like, what happened, and what we are like now. If you have decided you want what we have and are willing to go to any lengths to get it, then you are ready to take certain steps.
At some of these we balked. We thought we could find an easier, softer way. But we could not. With all the earnestness at our command, we beg of you to be fearless and thorough from the very start. Some of us tried to hold onto old ideas, and the result was nil until we let go absolutely.
Remember that we deal with food - - - cunning, baffling and powerful. Without help it is too much for us. But there is one who has all power, that one is God. May you find Him now.
Half measures availed us nothing. We stood at the turning point. We asked His protection and care with complete abandon.
Here are the steps we took, which are a program of recovery.
