Do not shut the door on the past.  it is what lead up to the point where i was ready to do whatever it takes to be willing to surrender.  Whatever it takes, for me, is meetings, working the 12 step program, being of service, reading AA books, praying, working on my conscious contact with God. 
We differ in the ages we are when we hit bottom.  But AA is there to help us with our steps no matter our age or circumstance. 
It takes what it takes to get us started on the path to spiritual wellness and away from a life that promotes a dependence on alcohol and numbness.