Hey Foxman... very astute question. Actually, I'm glad you asked because the story I tell myself is that I'm an AA dropout... a 12-step failure... no surprise there. And yet, thinking back, the lack of a suitable sponsor was probably key to my leaving the program.
I faithfully attended outside meetings for a year and a half after rehab. I had two sponsors. The first "fired" me and I "fired" the second. My first sponsor was by-the-book and strict about how the program was to be worked. On step 4, I needed very much to simultaneously count the good in my life... I felt like I was drowning in my history and I didn't want to lose the sense of blessing that also has been very much a part of my journey. I've done a lot of work at various stages of my life and have forgiven many and asked forgiveness from those who suffered from being with me. This sponsor wasn't having any of it and actually was pretty shaming about my wanting to notice and hold on to the good. She fired me because I refused to do it her way and let her control the process.
My second sponsor was more lenient. Unfortunately, a lot too lenient in my opinion. The Anonymous part of AA didn't seem to mean too much to her as she gossiped about members and told me private information about previous sponsees. I didn't feel that my information was safe with her and thus found it impossible to complete the required "fearless" inventory.
After that, I quit. I know..... I should have been more persistent. I chose to protect myself instead. I do not knock AA...It helps many people everyday. I still hold dear many of the precepts. I will, however, always point out that AA is a valid method toward sobriety but by no means the ONLY WAY.
So thank you, Foxman, for the opportunity to answer for myself why I left and now understand why I can finally let go of all that unnecessary guilt and shame. Let me tell you, that was a source of much anxiety. No more. Yay
So, seriously, thank you.
Oh, and say Thank you and mean it. 
