Paul Martin, who died with, I think, 62 years of sobriety, said this:
"In the spring of 1948, I heard Paul S. talk at that same meeting. He was one of the early Akron AAs. Over and over, he kept saying, "AA, in and of itself, is sufficient." I didn't know whether to believe him or not. But, today I believe it's true. AA, in and of itself, is sufficient if we work the Steps."
When I have a problem, I first try the small point of ointment.
What is that?
Steps 10, 11, and 12.
If that doesn't work, I try the large point of ointment.
What is that?
Steps 1 through 12.
This always works. It's not about information; it's about experience; and the Steps are an experience.