“We are without defense against the first drink.” (Chapter Two, Big Book)
“There is a complete failure of the kind of defense that keeps one from putting his hand on a hot stove.” (Chapter Two, Big Book)
“They had said that though I did raise a defense, it would one day give way before some trivial reason for having a drink.” (Chapter Three, Big Book)
“Once more: The alcoholic at certain times has no effective mental defense against the first drink. Except in a few rare cases, neither he nor any other human being can provide such a defense. His defense must come from a Higher Power.” (Chapter Three, Big Book)
Recovering from a gunshot wound does not prevent a person from being shot again. The person would need a defence, say, Kevlar, to stop the bullet.
Recovering from alcoholism does not mean alcoholism will not shoot the thought of a drink my way.
I need a defence: spiritual Kevlar; the ability to continuing acting right, aka grace.