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Thoughts on Tradition Twelve from the Shropshire (UK) Intergroup (More HERE ): Short form Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all our traditions, ever reminding us to place principles before personalities. Long form And finally, we of Alcoholics Anonymous believe that the principle of anonymity has an immense spiritual significance. It reminds us that we are to place principles before personalities; that we are to practice a genuine humility. This to the end that our great blessings may never spoil us; that we shall forever live in thankful contemplation of Him who presides over us all. Tradition Twelve Discussion Questions Why is it a good idea for me to place principles before personalities? When I do not like or trust AA’s current servants, do I wish had the authority to straighten them out? Do I ever try to get a certain AA group to conform to my standards, not its own? Do I complain about certain AAs’ behaviour? Who made me so smart? Do I fulfil all AA...
Don't preach to newcomers in AA There are many warnings to not preach to or lecture people who may need our program, especially in Working With Others and To Wives. In fact, these are usually stated categorically and unconditionally - not as suggestions. Perhaps because willingness is an essential ingredient in recovery through our program, demands and authoritarian attitudes toward those still suffering are frowned upon. Big Book: Working With Others "Don't start out as an evangelist or reformer... So cooperate; never criticize [Doctors and ministers who may help us find prospects]. Page 89 "If he does not want to stop drinking, don't waste time trying to persuade him." "If he does not want to see you, never force yourself upon him. Neither should the family hysterically plead with him to do anything..." Page 90 "Though you have talked with the family, leave them out of the first discussion. Under these conditions your prospect will see he i...
Thoughts on Tradition Eleven from the Shropshire (UK) Intergroup (More at the link below): Short form Our public relations policy is based on attraction rather than promotion; we need always maintain personal anonymity at the level of press, radio and films. Long form Our relations with the general public should be characterised by personal anonymity. We think A.A. should avoid sensational advertising. Our names and pictures as A.A. members ought not be broadcast, filmed, or publicly printed. Our public relations should be guided by the principle of attraction rather than promotion. There is never need to praise ourselves. We feel it better that our friends recommend us. Tradition Eleven Discussion Questions Do I sometimes promote AA so fanatically that I make it seem unattractive? Do I understand the level of anonymity this tradition suggests? Am I an ‘invisible’ alcoholic? When in service am I careful to avoid using my name at the level of press, radio and film. Are public f...
