What does the Big Book say about giving advice?
Chapter 7:
Chapter 7:
'Suppose now you are making your second visit to a man. He has read this volume and says he is prepared to go through with the Twelve Steps of the program of recovery. Having had the experience yourself, you can give him much practical advice. Let him know you are available if he wishes to make a decision and tell his story, but do not insist upon it if he prefers to consult someone else.'
The answer, therefore, is that we do give it. Common sense applies, however:
- Ensure advice is in accordance with knowledge and experience
- Remind advice-seekers of one's own fallibility [rectified]
- Hedge advice with the usual expressions of uncertainty
- Encourage advice-askers to consult, think, pray, and make up their own mind