William G. Wilson was a hopeless alcoholic.  But after a dramatic spiritual experience, the retired Wall Street securities analyst sobered up and stayed sober for the remaining 36 years of his life.  He was known only as "Bill W." to the millions of people who have been helped to regain their dignity, self-esteem, decency, and hope through the Alcholics Anonymous program which he and Dr. Robert Holbrook Smith co-founded in 1935.

It all began when Eddy T, an old barroom companion disclosed that he had attained complete freedom from his drinking problem.  "Pray to whatever God you think there is, Bill," Eddy said.  "Admit you are licked.  Be honest with yourself.  Tell God you are licked.  God is waiting to turn your hopelessness into hope."  Friend of Dial Hope, God loves you.  Now make today a masterpiece.

Prayer:  Loving God, how great Thou art!  Grant a special capacity for grace to those who are ill in body or spirit.  Bring healing to those facing surgery.  Now Lord, grant us the serenity to accept the things we cannot change, the courage to change the things we can, and the wisdom to know the difference.  Through the amazing grace of Jesus Christ.  Amen.