45th anniversary of the Third World Literature Conference of Narcotics Anonymous — held in Memphis, Tennessee in 1981 — the gathering that brought the NA Basic Text into being.

In this special episode, we’re joined by Doug W., Linda M., George R., and Gene L., members who were there and helped carry the responsibility of finishing the book so that addicts they would never meet could find recovery.

Rather than reading minutes or timelines, this conversation explores the human side of that work: the pressure, disagreements, unity, spiritual grounding, and trust required to bring the Basic Text to life. This is a story about service, surrender, and what can happen when addicts come together for something bigger than themselves.

We are the book — and together we will always have the book.

Welcome back to Francis’s Archives, a special solo series within the Living Clean Podcast where history, personal stories, and reflections come together to honor the voices that helped shape recovery as we know it today.

This week, we remember Bill Brooks — a foundational member in the growth of Narcotics Anonymous in Alabama whose influence continues to be felt by generations of recovering addicts. Bill has a personal story in the back of the Basic Text titled “If You Want What We Have,” and many members recognize the powerful opening line that begins, “My name is Bill, and I’m a junkie and a juicer.” — a simple yet unforgettable introduction that has resonated with countless people over the years.

Through shared memories, historical context, and heartfelt reflection, this episode highlights the humility, service, and compassion Bill carried into every room. We’ll also touch on excerpts from his story that capture the spirit of openness, love, and the life-changing impact of walking into an NA meeting for the first time.

This episode isn’t only about looking back — it’s about recognizing the people who helped build the path we walk today and continuing to carry the message forward. The heart of recovery beats strongest when we remember those who came before us and honor their legacy through action.

In this episode of the Living Clean Podcast, we sit down with the author of “Just Say Yes,” a powerful personal story from Life on Life’s Terms written more than 20 years ago.

Raised in a traditional Sikh family, our guest shares his journey from a double life of addiction and professional success to recovery through Narcotics Anonymous. We talk sponsorship, willingness, prayer before belief, service, and what it means to trust the process over time.

This conversation bridges early recovery and life today, offering an honest look at how spiritual principles continue to guide growth, relationships, and change—one day at a time.