1-5-2020 #156. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the “Living Clean – The Journey Continues” up to page 113-2. This is a link to a free PDF of the book, available online. The pages are slightly different, but, the content is similar.

We began our group discussing “Is it possible to be addicted to program? Is that a transfer addiction?”

We are continuing on the subject of physical recovery. Today we discussed gratitude, disability, and emotional and spiritual crisis.

The topic of having regular business or group conscience meetings was brought up.

As a review: The 12 Traditions are the general guidelines and guiding principles that keep 12 Step support groups focused on unity and singleness of purpose.

They address how, as addicts, we can live and work together as individuals within a group, the 12 Step organization as a whole and with the world outside.

Perhaps as a group, our next topic could be “how would we like to implement the traditions and improve how our group carries the message of recovery to those who still suffer?”

In order to look at how to practice the traditions, a great place to start is this pamphlet on the topic by AA. After that, the group could do a group inventory (each word is to a different link to the same information). A group inventory is a wonderful way to assess “How well is our group carrying the message of recovery?”

Next, how does a group make an informed group conscience decision?

Here is a great link to a discussion on tradition 2 and group conscience which includes direct quotes from program literature.

There are a few articles that I found on how to have an informed group conscience:

This is an article from 1958 on AAs Group Conscience in Action from the AA Grapevine. (This is more for historical purposes).

These are short documents on this topic:

Informed Group  Conscience

InformedGroupConscience

Informed-Group-Conscience

What is the purpose of having a business meeting?

Business Meetings_Grp Conscience

How does one chair a group conscience meeting?

Here is a link to the OA Group Conscience Meeting Format

This is one from NA.

This is a word document on how to chair a group conscience meeting:

how_to_chair_a_group_conscience_meeting_1 (1)

This could be a wonderful learning opportunity for the group. What would everyone like to do??

1-12-2020 #157. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the “Living Clean – The Journey Continues” up to page 123-0.

During the first part of the group, we had a group conscience on whether or not we want to schedule regular business or group conscience meetings.

We reviewed that the 12 Traditions not rules. Instead, the 12 Traditions are the general guidelines and guiding principles that keep 12 Step support groups focused on unity and singleness of purpose.

As addicts, we are seeking to change from being self-led to being God-led. We are seeking to change and recover from our addictions by living according to the principles that are embodied in the 12 steps, 12 traditions and in the 12 concepts in all our affairs – both inside and outside of the rooms.

The purpose of the 12 Traditions is to keep the group focused on “why are we here?” And, “how well are we carrying the message?”

Outcome of our group conscience today:

Everyone present in the meeting today shared that they are happy with how we currently resolve any issues or concerns.

Up until this point, whenever something comes up, we discuss the issue, come to a resolution and then continue on with the meeting. The preference is to continue with that method, rather than instituting something more formal.

As a group, we agreed that we would finish reading “Living Clean – The Journey Continues.”

Then, we will read this pamphlet on how the meetings fit the overall structure of program, followed by doing a group inventory (each word is to a different link to the same information).

The purpose of a group inventory is to assess “How well is our group carrying the message of recovery? How well is our group demonstrating how to practice the principles of the program?”

We will conclude our workshop by reading and discussing the book A New Pair of Glasses by Chuck C. (There is a more expensive text of the same book also available on Amazon. I am not sure how to distinguish one from the other.)

During our group conscience, we discussed the 7th Tradition. As a 12 Step group, Emotional Sobriety and Food does not having any fees or dues. However, we do have expenses. It was suggested that everyone give a donation of $25 in January and June to help cover the costs of our group. Any leftover money can be used at Shira’s discretion.

Shira: Thank you all for your generosity and support. I want to emphasis that I believe that God will provide the resources we need to run this group. And, any money received is a donation, not a fee. All are welcome!

This week, we read and discussed the “Living Clean – The Journey Continues” up to page 123-0. This is a link to a free PDF of the book, available online. The pages are slightly different, but, the content is similar.

We concluded the subject of physical recovery. Today we discussed aging, death and dying, living with grief and courage. The chapter concluded that with courage, we gain acceptance of our physical reality and the willingness to live to the level that we are capable of on life’s terms.

1-19-2020 #158. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the “Living Clean – The Journey Continues” up to page 141-1.

This is a link to a free PDF of the book, available online. The pages are slightly different, but, the content is similar.

Today, we began reading about relationships in recovery. We discussed how recovery does not happen in a vacuum. The relationships that we develop as we recover, both inside and outside of the rooms — give us the opportunity to repair the damage that may have occurred while we were living in our disease.

Not everyone had the opportunity to share. Please review what we read and we will start our meeting next week with open sharing about what we read this week.

1-26-2020 #159. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the “Living Clean – The Journey Continues” up to page 156-1.

This is a link to a free PDF of the book, available online. The pages are slightly different, but, the content is similar.

02-02-2020 #160. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the “Living Clean – The Journey Continues” up to page 175-1.

This is a link to a free PDF of the book, available online. The pages are slightly different, but, the content is similar.

02-09-2020 #161. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the “Living Clean – The Journey Continues” up to page 189-1. We began the chapter, A New Way of Life.

This is a link to a free PDF of the book, available online. The pages are slightly different, but, the content is similar.

This week we discussed if we would like to alter our group format to leave more time for discussion.

It was suggested that the total amount of time allotted for sharing will be adjusted each week in order to enable 3 minutes shares for each person present. The total amount will vary depending on the number of participants present.

Up until this point we only allowed for 15 minutes of discussion, which was sometimes frustrating for people.

We also discussed the possibility of reading the book No Guilt No Games No Drama the 7 Keys to Setting Smarter Boundaries by Steph Sterner (her name links to her website).

This is definitely not program literature. However, the issue of setting proper boundaries and knowing the balance between self-care vs. self-absorption and selfishness is a reoccurring theme for so many of us in recovery.

Please review the book. We can decide if it is appropriate to read the book as a group or not.  If not, I highly recommend reading the book individually.

Aidel also reminded me of another great book, Loving What Is by Byron Katie. She also has a website called TheWork. Her books are very insightful and helpful!

02-16-2020 #162. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the “Living Clean – The Journey Continues” up to page 203-0.

It was suggested that we do not read the book No Guilt No Games No Drama the 7 Keys to Setting Smarter Boundaries by Steph Sterner (her name links to her website) as a group.

In program, we are seeking a spiritual solution to our problems. The AA BB tells us that “self-reliance always fails us.” This is the difference between a self-help approach and and following a spiritual program of recovery as outlined in the AA Big Book. Therefore, since this book does not offer a God-reliant solution to our problems, it would be best for anyone who is interested to read the book independently if desired.

02-23-2020 #163. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the “Living Clean – The Journey Continues” up to page 219-0. We completed the chapter, A New Way of Life.

Next week we will start the final chapter, The Journey Continues.

When we complete the book, I would like to read from the stories in the AA Big Book before moving onto our next source of literature.

As discussed, we will read from this pamphlet by AA to look at how to practice the traditions, and assess “How well is our group carrying the message of recovery?”

As part of Step 12, we will do a group inventory (each word is to a different link to the same information).

We will conclude our workshop by reading and discussing the book A New Pair of Glasses by Chuck C. (There is a more expensive text of the same book also available on Amazon. I am not sure how to distinguish one from the other.)

03-01-2020 #164. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the “Living Clean – The Journey Continues” up to page 232-2. We are now reading the final chapter, The Journey Continues.

Next week begins Daylight Savings Time. Please remember to turn your clocks forward 1 hour. That means that 5:30 AM will feel like 4:30 AM.

Our regular meeting will still take place.

If our group is very small, we will read from the stories in the AA Big Book instead.

I am going to try and go to bed 1 hour earlier. Perhaps that will help to compensate for the loss of 1 hour of sleep?

Looking forward to seeing everyone next week.

Together we can do what we could never do alone.

03-08-2020 #165. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the “Living Clean – The Journey Continues” up to page 248-1. We are now reading the final chapter, The Journey Continues.

03-15-2020 #166. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and completed “Living Clean – The Journey Continues.”  It was a wonderful book and absolutely worth rereading either individually or as a group.

Next week we will begin reading from this pamphlet by AA to look at how to practice the traditions.

After that, we will do a group inventory (each word is to a different link to the same information) to assess “How well is our group carrying the message of recovery?”

We enjoyed reading the NA literature so much that we discussed as a group that we will read Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA. Here is a link to a pdf of a draft of the book if you would like to preview some of the content.

03-22-2020 #167. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read discussed the story in the AA Big Book “A Late Start.”

Next week, we will continue reading the stories  out of the AA Big Book, as there are only 2 more left!

After that, we will begin reading from this pamphlet by AA to look at how to practice the traditions. Aidel suggested buying the pamphlet from AA directly, as it will be easier to read.

Included in that pamphlet is the group inventory (each word is to a different link to the same information) that we had discussed doing already to assess “How well is our group carrying the message of recovery?”

Since we enjoyed reading the NA literature so much that we discussed as a group that we will read Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA. Here is a link to a pdf of a draft of the book if you would like to preview some of the content.

We will conclude our workshop by reading and discussing the book A New Pair of Glasses by Chuck C. (There is a more expensive text of the same book also available on Amazon. I am not sure how to distinguish one from the other.)

03-29-2020 #168. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the story in the AA Big Book “Freedom from Bondage.”

Here is the link to read the Freedom from Bondage Prayer.

With the extra time, we read the recent post “Where Are You in Your Spiritual Journey of Recovery Today?”

Next week, we will read the last story out of the AA Big Book.  After that, we can either discuss the questions from the post or start to read the pamphlet by AA to look at how to practice the traditions.

An email was sent out to the group with the pamphlet attached. Alternatively, you can order a printed copy directly from AA.

04-05-2020 #169. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the final story in the AA Big Book “A.A. Taught Him to Handle Sobriety.”

During our meeting, I shared more information about the author of “Freedom from Bondage.”

The author of the story was Wynn L. from LA. Please go to Silkworth.net and search directly for the article. Unfortunately, the site has been changed and all the links have been broken. And, here is a link to a recording of one of her talks. This is a link to the recording directly on YouTube.

The author of the story today is Bob P., from Connecticut. Please go to Silkworth.net and search directly for the articles. The links that were previously posted are no longer active.

Here is one of his most famous quotes from a talk that he gave at the 1986 General Service Conference. Bob gave what the 1986 Final Report called “a powerful and inspiring closing talk” titled “Our greatest danger: rigidity.”

He said: “If you were to ask me what is the greatest danger facing A.A. today, I would have to answer the growing rigidity – the increasing demand for absolute answers to nit-picking questions; pressure for G.S.O. to ‘enforce’ our Traditions, screening alcoholics at closed meetings, prohibiting non-Conference approved literature, i.e., ‘banning books,’ laying more and more rules on groups and members. And in this trend toward rigidity, we are drifting farther and farther away from our co-founders. Bill, in particular, must be spinning in his grave, for he was perhaps the most permissive person I ever met. One of his favorite sayings was ‘Every group has the right to be wrong.'”

After that, we discussed the questions from the recent post on the blog, “Where Are You in Your Spiritual Journey of Recovery Today?”

An email was sent out again to the group with the pamphlet that we will be reading next. It is available to read for free online. If you choose, you can print it up on your own computer or you can order a printed copy directly from AA.

As discussed, I am going to be transferred to a medical unit to care for COVID-19 patients starting next week. My schedule will be changing and I may have to work on Sundays.

What would everyone like to do?

Our choices are:

Change the day that we meet to accommodate my schedule, OR, someone else from the group can lead the meeting instead.

Please consider what you would prefer.

04-12-2020 #170. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read discussed the AA Group pamphlet by AA up to 12:0. The pamphlet covers four main areas: what an A.A. group is; how a group functions; group relations with others in the community; and how the group fits into the structure of A.A. as a whole. This week, we discussed the principle of anonymity and the first tradition on unity of purpose.

04-19-2020 #171. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read discussed the AA Group pamphlet by AA up to 16:0.

04-26-2020 #172. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read discussed the AA Group pamphlet by AA up to 20:0.

This week we discussed the importance of creating fellowship both inside and outside of the meeting and the importance of shared leadership and of service.

We discussed that the traditions are ideals to strive for, not hard and fast rules.

Although it is healthier for the group to rotate leadership positions, if the same people provide service, it is not necessarily “unhealthy.”  There is a difference between providing service so that the meeting can continue for one’s own benefit versus insisting on controlling the group and not allowing other people to do service.

There is a delicate balance between providing service and avoiding seeking to control. It is very important to check one’s motives.

05-3-2020 #173. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read discussed the AA Group pamphlet by AA up to 28:0.

This week, some group members shared that they find the pamphlet boring and not beneficial for their recovery.

The question was asked: “How are the traditions useful for my recovery?” And, “are the traditions really necessary for recovery?”

This is a common sentiment expressed by many members in program. Clearly, the traditions do not provide the same instant gratification that one receives by taking the steps.

The 12 Steps are the program of action that lead to a spiritual experience that facilitates recovery from our addiction. The 12 traditions were created to ensure the survival of the group. They embody the spiritual principles that serve as the guidelines by which the fellowship operates and maintains its unity.

It is my experience that when people are not knowledgeable about the traditions, groups get mired in conflicts and do not survive.

Personal recovery depends on unity of the fellowship. The unity of the fellowship depends on how well we follow the traditions. If not, how will someone get to a group to learn about the steps if there is not a group to come to where they are being taught?

Nevertheless, we discussed that we would have less discussion and read the content of the pamphlet more quickly.

05-10-2020 #174. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read discussed the AA Group pamphlet by AA up to 30:0.

This week, we agreed that we would read the whole pamphlet, even if some of the parts are not as relevant. Today we began the group inventory and discussed the first 2 questions: “What is the basic purpose of our group?” And, “What more can our group do to carry the message?”

This is a great explanation of the 12 Traditions. Check it out!

05-17-2020 #175. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read discussed the AA Group pamphlet by AA up to 30:2 and completed the group inventory. We agreed to ask during the introduction of our meeting “who is available to sponsor, what time and what fellowship are you in?”

5-24-2020. This week, we completed the Group pamphlet by AA.  Unfortunately, I forgot to record the meeting, so there is no playback recording or mp3 available.

Overall, the response to the pamphlet was mixed. Some of us enjoyed it, and others found it boring and not helpful for their recovery.

Personally, I enjoyed hearing everyone’s experiences with the traditions as applied on the group level.

Sometimes, just doing something for the unity of the group, with grace and equanimity demonstrates incredible spiritual growth! Please consider: Do you think that you would have been willing to be so tolerant and accepting when you first started program? So, thank you everyone for your patience, tolerance and kindness. I am humbled by the level of recovery you demonstrated.

Next week we will begin the book Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA. Here is a link to a pdf of a draft of the book if you would like to preview some of the content.

05-31-2020 #176. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we began the book Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA up to 10:1. Here is a link to a pdf of a draft of the book if you would like to preview some of the content.

06-07-2020 #177. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we began the book Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA up to 18:0. Here is a link to a pdf of a draft of the book if you would like to preview some of the content.

Here an affirmation for Tradition 1: Let me remember that my fulfillment, love, joy and forgiveness come through my sharing and joining with others in our common welfare.

Practical application: The A.A. member conforms to the principles of recovery; at first because he must, later because he discovers a way of life he really wants to live. (Unity)

06-14-2020 #178. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we continued reading and discussing the book Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA up to 30:0.

This week, we began Tradition 2: For our group purpose there is but one ultimate authority—a loving God as He may express Himself in our group conscience. Our leaders are but trusted servants; they do not govern.

For fun, I thought I would add here an affirmation for Tradition 2:

Let me remember that God, as we understand Him, is our only True Source, that we are His children, His agents, His individual expressions, and that we have come together for His purpose. Even now He is guiding and directing us.

This book is very helpful for deepening our understanding on the traditions and how we can apply the principles of the traditions to other areas of our lives.

Here is a link to a pdf of a draft of the book if you would like to preview some of the content.

Practical application: When we come to understand the wisdom of the group decision and the necessity of patiently awaiting developments, the real and permanent leadership of A.A. can offer the quiet opinion, the sure knowledge and humble example that resolve a crisis, leading by example, rather than driving by mandate. (Group Conscience)

06-21-2020 #179. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we continued reading and discussing the book Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA up to 42:0.

Practical application of Tradition 3:  When confronted by the fear that is the true basis of intolerance, we need only ask, “What would the Master do?” (Membership)

06-28-2020 #180. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we continued reading and discussing the book Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA up to 62:0.

Aidel asked about the 12 Concepts. Here is a link to a pdf about them.

Here is a link to the 12 Concepts Checklist of AA.

Here is a document on an overview of the 12 Concepts, if anyone would like to explore them more deeply.

07-05-2020 #181. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we continued reading and discussing the book Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA up to 80:0. We completed Tradition 4 and the principle of autonomy.

07-12-2020 #182. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we continued reading and discussing the book Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA up to 98:0. We completed Tradition 5 and the principle of primary purpose.

07-19-2020 #183. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we continued reading and discussing the book Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA up to 117:0. We completed Tradition 6 and the principles are: solidarity, non-affiliation and singleness of purpose.

Tradition 6 Short Form

An A.A. group ought never endorse, finance, or lend the A.A. name to any related facility or outside enterprise, lest problems of money, property or prestige divert us from our primary purpose.

Tradition 6 Long Form

“Problems of money, property, and authority may easily divert us from our primary spiritual aim. We think, therefore, that any considerable property of genuine use to A.A. should be separately incorporated and managed, thus dividing the material from the spiritual. An A.A. group, as such, should never go into business. Secondary aids to A.A., such as clubs or hospitals which require much property or administration, ought to be incorporated and so set apart that, if necessary, they can be freely discarded by the groups. Hence such facilities ought not to use the A.A. name. Their management should be the sole responsibility of those people who financially support them. For clubs, A.A. managers are usually preferred. But hospitals, as well as other places of recuperation, ought to be well outside A.A.—and medically supervised. While an A.A. group may cooperate with anyone, such cooperation ought never to go so far as affiliation or endorsement, actual or implied. An A.A. group can bind itself to no one.”

 

Principle: solidarity, vigilance, harmony & balance

Problem: diversion from our primary purpose due to false pride, insecurity & ambition

Purpose: cooperation — not endorsement or affiliation

Process: separate the spiritual from the material

Practice: a simple clear message delivered honestly and without confusion

Promise: direction & sense of purpose

Proposal: do I stay focused on my primary purpose for its own sake, or as a means to an end (money, property or prestige)?

Ponder: where does my sense of self and personal well-being come from?

First things first. It’s vital that we find common group and support each other in our needs.

Practical application: What is the importance of singleness of purpose, both in program and my personal life? Do I understand the difference between that which helps and that which hinders? Do I keep my program simple?

Practical application: We are all perfectionists who, failing perfection, have gone to the other extreme. We cannot be all things to all men, nor should we try. (Non-Affiliation)

Do I have boundaries in all areas of my life and the roles that I play?

07-26-2020 #184. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we continued reading and discussing the book Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA up to 138:0. We completed Tradition 7 and the principles are: remaining free of outside influences, gratitude, self-supporting, and responsibility.

The seventh tradition tells me: “I can’t keep it unless I give it away.”

This tradition also includes the principle of voluntary poverty and simplicity. We learn to trust God that He will provide us what we need so long as we stay close to Him and do His work well.

The principle of being self-supporting is not only is it a responsibility of sobriety, it is essential to our self-esteem. It means that I live within my means and most importantly, I live honestly and with integrity.

The principle of voluntary poverty and simplicity obligates the members of the fellowship to contribute to the financial welfare of our fellowship. Without this obligation, we could easily revert back to our habitual character defects of selfishness and greed.

When we were in our active addiction, we often depended on people places and things to support us and supply us with what we thought we needed or were missing in our lives.

In recovery and through the application of this tradition, we shift from a material dependence on people, places and things to a spiritual dependence on God.

As we practice and grow to depend on God, as we understand Him, our actions reflect how we are able to tap the “unsuspected inner resource” which we receive from strengthening and depending on infinite God rather than our finite selves.

By sharing our resources, whether time or money, we learn to work together. This strength in unity allows us to feel a part of “something greater than ourselves”.

Tradition 7 Short Form: Every A.A. group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions.

Tradition 7 Long Form: The A.A. groups themselves ought to be fully supported by the voluntary contributions of their own members. We think that each group should soon achieve this ideal; that any public solicitation of funds using the name of Alcoholics Anonymous is highly dangerous, whether by groups, clubs, hospitals, or other outside agencies; that acceptance of large gifts from any source, or of contributions carrying any obligation whatever, is unwise. Then too, we view with much concern those A.A. treasuries which continue, beyond prudent reserves, to accumulate funds for no stated A.A. purpose. Experience has often warned us that nothing can so surely destroy our spiritual heritage as futile disputes over property, money, and authority.

Practical application: How important in my recovery is the feeling of self-respect, rather than the feeling of being always under obligation for charity received?

Tradition Seven Affirmation– Let me remember that as God’s agents we are able to be fully self-supporting – by His Divine Grace we can be free of outside interference. He will give us all we need to do His Will.

Shira’s Prayer for the 7^th Tradition: God, I humbly ask You to remove my shortcoming of selfishness and self-centeredness. May I not fall prey to the worship of other things, including money. Guide me and protect me so that I may place my trust and reliance upon You and only You. May I trust that You will provide me with what I need, so long as I stay close to You and do Your work well.

In explaining the Seventh Tradition as it pertains to AA, the 12&12 hints at how it may benefit us personally.

“To people familiar with endless drives for charitable funds, A.A. presented a strange and refreshing spectacle. Approving editorials here and abroad generated a wave of confidence in the integrity of Alcoholics Anonymous. They pointed out that the irresponsible had become responsible, and that by making financial independence part of its tradition, Alcoholics Anonymous had revived an ideal that its era had almost forgotten.”

08-02-2020 #185. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we continued reading and discussing the book Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA up to page 156. We completed Tradition 8 and the principles are: fellowship, service, diligence and zeal.

Tradition 8 Short form: Alcoholics Anonymous should remain forever non-professional, but our service centers may employ special workers.

Tradition 8 Long form: Alcoholics Anonymous should remain forever non-professional. We define professionalism as the occupation of counselling alcoholics for fees or hire. But we may employ alcoholics where they are going to perform those services for which we may otherwise have to engage non-alcoholics. Such special services may be well recompensed. But our usual A.A. ’12 Step’ work is never to be paid for.

Practical application: Do I sometimes try to get some reward—even if not money—for my personal AA efforts?

What happens when I give with an expectation to receive a particular outcome or reward? What happens to my desire to give when I do not get the reward?

Do I understand that my spiritual growth and consequently my recovery are dependent on my work and self-sacrifice for others?

Tradition Eight Affirmation – Let me remember that we were freely given our special gifts so we must share them freely, not as a professional.

Shira’s Prayer for Tradition 8: God, I humbly ask You to remove my shortcomings of pride, ambition and greed and replace them with diligence, zeal and simplicity. Please bless me with the willingness to share with others what has been so freely given to me in a spirit of love and compassion for my fellow man.  May I come to truly understand that my spiritual growth and recovery are dependent on my work and self-sacrifice for others. God, You know that I cannot do this work alone. Please grant me the discernment to know when to take action and when to ask for help, without a thought of personal gain. Thy will, not mine be done always!

Quote: Alcoholics Anonymous will never have a professional class. We have gained some understanding of the ancient words “Freely ye have received, freely give.” We have discovered that at the point of professionalism, money and spirituality do not mix. Almost no recovery from alcoholism has ever been brought about by the world’s best professionals, whether medical or religious. We do not decry professionalism in other fields, but we accept the sober fact that it does not work for us.

Every time we have tried to professionalize our Twelfth Step, the result has been exactly the same: Our single purpose has been defeated (Tradition Five). Alcoholics simply will not listen to a paid twelfth-stepper…The money motive compromises him and everything he says and does for this prospect. (AA 12 & 12: 166)

Freely ye have received; freely give.  (AA 12 & 12)

08-09-2020 #186. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we continued reading and discussing the book Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA up to page 176. We completed Tradition 9 and the principles are: simplicity, accountability, prudence and fidelity.

Tradition 9 Short form: AA, as such, ought never be organized; but we may create service boards or committees directly responsible to those they serve.

Tradition 9 Long form: Each AA group needs the least possible organization. Rotating leadership is the best. The small group may elect its secretary, the large group its rotating committee, and the groups of a large metropolitan area their central or intergroup committee, which often employs a full-time secretary. The trustees of the General Service Board are, in effect, our AA General Service Committee. They are the custodians of our AA Tradition and the receivers of voluntary AA contributions by which we maintain our AA General Service Office at New York. They are authorized by the groups to handle our over-all public relations and they guarantee the integrity of our principal newspaper, the AA Grapevine. All such representatives are to be guided in the spirit of service, for true leaders in AA are but trusted and experienced servants of the whole. They derive no real authority from their titles; they do not govern. Universal respect is the key to their usefulness.

Practical application:

How do I take responsibility for my actions while practicing surrender about outcomes?

Am I driven by a desire to be in control or a desire to give service?

Tradition Nine Affirmation: Let me remember that we need to keep an open-mind for His guidance, His flow of love and wisdom, avoiding the closed-mindedness of too many rigid rules or over organization.

Shira’s Prayer for Tradition 9: God, I humbly ask You to remove my shortcomings of defiance, self-obsession, & suspicion and replace them with simplicity, accountability, prudence & fidelity. Thank you all that for all that you have given me! May I be willing to use the gifts that You have given me to make a difference in the lives of other people, and yet to surrender the outcome of my actions to Your loving guidance, direction and care. May I create a space within myself and in my relationships with others to see what is truly important in life and seek to be fair and just in all my decisions and actions. I ask for a truly open mind so that I might share with others what has been so freely given to me in a real spirit of love and compassion for my fellows.

Quotes:

Just as the aim of each A.A. member is personal sobriety, the aim of our services is to bring sobriety within reach of all who want it. (AA 12 & 12)

A.A. has to function, but at the same time it must avoid those dangers of great wealth, prestige, and entrenched power which necessarily tempt other societies. Though Tradition Nine at first sight seems to deal with a purely practical matter, in its actual operation it discloses a society without organization, animated only by the spirit of service —a true fellowship. (AA 12 & 12)

08-16-2020 #187. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we continued reading and discussing the book Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA up to page 194. We completed Tradition 10 and the principles are equanimity, civility, and self-restraint.

Tradition 10 Short Form: “Alcoholics Anonymous has no opinion on outside issues; hence the AA name ought never be drawn into public controversy.”

Tradition 10 Long Form: “No A.A. group or member should ever, in such a way as to implicate A.A., express any opinion on outside controversial issues — particularly those of politics, alcohol reform, or sectarian religion. The Alcoholics Anonymous groups oppose no one. Concerning such matters they can express no views whatever.”

Principle: equanimity, civility, and self-restraint

Problem: intolerance, self-righteousness, judgmental

Purpose: to promote unity by avoiding controversy

Process: share knowledge & personal experience, not opinions

Practice: sensitivity to the feelings and honor of others, regardless of any biases or provocations

Promise: self-awareness; harmony within diversity

Proposal: Do I see the benefit of setting aside controversial matters which could damage unity?

Ponder: what is the difference between self-restraint and self-censorship?

Life and let live

Practical application:

Am I careful not to enter into heated disputes with my friends?

Do I act with discretion by maintaining my focus and walking away from controversy with dignity?

Do I focus on my rights or on my duties? If I have to choose: would I rather be right or would I rather be loving?

Do I see the benefit of setting aside controversial matters and focus on areas of commonality with others?

Am I mindful of my boundaries by considering the effect of my words on others before I speak?

Tradition Ten Affirmation – Let me remember that we need to stay focused on our primary purpose, avoiding useless arguments on outside issues.

Quote: “…we must never, no matter what the provocation, publicly take sides in any fight, even a worthy one.” (AA 12 & 12)

08-23-2020 #188. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we continued reading and discussing the book Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA. We completed Tradition 11 and the principles are anonymity modesty, humility, hospitality, selflessness, & self-control.

Tradition 11 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.

Tradition 11 Long Form: Our relations with the general public should be characterized by personal anonymity. We think A.A. ought to 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 to let our friends recommend us.

How to personalize Tradition 11:

Dan S., who wrote the BBA, suggested in a talk on the traditions that the traditions need to be personalized in order to understand them. He suggests that after you read the tradition in both the long and short vision, ask yourself:

“At the general public level, does the group publicize any individual AA member’s name or picture as a self-appointed representative of AA?”

Consider: “How may your group or groups around you possibly broken Tradition 11?”

Visualize: “What it would look like what it would look like if a group violated Tradition 11?”

Visualize: “What is a personal example of what it would look like to break Tradition 11?”

After considering what it would look like to break Tradition 11, ask “How does the 12^th Tradition that “anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all our Traditions, ever reminding us to place principles before personalities” apply?

For example: How is anonymity the spiritual foundation of Tradition 11?

How does Tradition 11 help me understand the 12^th Tradition that “we are to place principles before personalities?”

Are the principles of program prioritized over the individual personalities in the group?

How does Tradition 11 help me understand “we are actually to practice a genuine humility?”

Principles: humility, hospitality, selflessness

Problem: self-seeking, pride, self-aggrandizement

Purpose:  selfless giving

Process: individual membership is private but the fellowship is not

Practice: living a life of attraction and anonymity

Promise: spiritual integrity

Proposal: when given the opportunity to help someone in AA, do I give freely from my heart — from a place of love and care without expecting something in return?

Ponder: what is the difference between anonymity, confidentiality and privacy?

God is not here to do what we want, but, God helps us to do what God needs doing.

Practical application:

Do I behave in a way that is attractive? Am I an example of the change that I want to see in the world?

Do I confuse the importance of the message with my importance as the messenger?

Am I willing to inconvenience myself to help another person?

Am I willing to let others’ needs be satisfied before my wants?

Did I help another person without waiting to be asked?

What good have I done today that I did not take credit for?

Do I need validation from others to justify my self-worth?

More ideas: The idea of attraction rather than promotion also means that the program focuses on changing people’s lives one person at a time by helping them deal with their addiction, find sobriety and maintain a sober life. By keeping this clear focus, the group automatically attracts people who see other addicts get sober and have a better life. The idea is that a current addict will look at someone who has recovered and think “I want what they have, so I will do what they did.” Thus, this person would then join AA.

The focus on attraction over promotion also helps keep the focus on addicts and recovery instead of things like reaching certain membership number goals or worrying about whether there is enough increase in membership to justify the money spent on ads.

The bottom line is that AA has a program that works, and it believes that as long as it keeps the focus on that program and helping individual addicts get through the 12 steps and continue to stay sober as they help others, the rest will fall into place.

Tradition 11 Summary: 

Tradition Eleven can be broken down into two parts, the first referring to our public relations policy, which, simply put, means we do not need to promote our Fellowship, and we don’t need to sell our program to anyone. As addicts in recovery, our living examples of where we were and where we are today is a powerful attraction for suffering addicts to seek our way of recovery. When others see how our lives have changed, and how we are mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually healthy, this acts as a powerful attraction for them to want this program. There is no need for promotion.

The second part of this Tradition sets the guideline on how we as members of Fellowships should present ourselves to the outside world — especially at the level of any kind of media. It’s a Tradition that aims to protect and keep our Fellowship safe. If we have found recovery through a 12 Step Fellowship, then we are asked not to reveal that fact at a public level outside the confines of the Fellowship. If we do so, we are ultimately pretending as if one person represents the whole Fellowship, which runs counter to its core principles that are based on spirituality and away from self-centeredness. This is to avoid possible confusion in the minds of the public, who might get the false impression that the person identifying himself as a member of this or that Fellowship is a representative of that Fellowship. One danger in such a situation would arise if that person relapses, thus reflecting badly on the Fellowship as a whole.

Tradition 11 Affirmation– Let me remember that we must walk the talk. Our willingness to be His agent will attract what or whom we need to do His Will. Humility goes hand in hand with this willingness.

Quote: “To us…[Tradition Eleven] represents far more than a sound public relations policy. It is more than a denial of self-seeking. This Tradition is a constant and practical reminder that personal ambition has no place in A.A. In it, each member becomes an active guardian of our Fellowship.”

See complete post on Tradition 11 on the blog.

08-30-2020 #189. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we completed Tradition 12 in the book Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA. The principles of Tradition 12 are altruism, love, respect and equality.

See the complete post on Tradition 12 on the blog.

09-06-2020 #190. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we completed reading and discussing the book Guiding Principles the Spirit of Our Traditions by NA. We then began the book A New Pair of Glasses by Chuck C. We are up to page 5:0.  Here is a link to the MP3’s of Chuck C.’s A New Pair of Glasses. The book is a transcription of the talks.

09-13-2020 #191. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the book A New Pair of Glasses by Chuck C. We are up to page 27:0.  Here is a link to the MP3’s of Chuck C.’s A New Pair of Glasses. The book is a transcription of the talks.

09-27-2020 #192. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the book A New Pair of Glasses by Chuck C. We are up to page 47:0.  Here is a link to the MP3’s of Chuck C.’s A New Pair of Glasses. The book is a transcription of the talks.

10-18-2020 #193. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the book A New Pair of Glasses by Chuck C. We are up to page 75:0.  Here is a link to the MP3’s of Chuck C.’s A New Pair of Glasses. The book is a transcription of the talks.

10-25-2020 #194. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the book A New Pair of Glasses by Chuck C. We are up to page 97:0.  Here is a link to the MP3’s of Chuck C.’s A New Pair of Glasses. The book is a transcription of the talks.

11-01-2020 #195. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the book A New Pair of Glasses by Chuck C. We are up to page 111:0.  Here is a link to the MP3’s of Chuck C.’s A New Pair of Glasses. The book is a transcription of the talks.

We had a wonderful discussion on whether or not we should ask God for abstinence or not. I also read from the story in the AA Big Book on “Acceptance.” Currently, I am reading sections of that story daily and saying out loud the names of people in my life who I need to accept more. I am finding it very helpful!

I also stared a little story called “Pumpkins”

A woman was asked by a coworker, “What is it like to be a recovered alcoholic?”

The co-worker replied, “It is like being a pumpkin. You’re taken from the patch, God brings you in and washes all the dirt off of you. Then He cuts off the top and scoops out all the yucky stuff — including the seeds of doubt, hate, fear, greed, selfishness, etc. Then He carves you a new smiling face and turns up His Light inside you to shine for all the world to see.”

This was passed on to me from another pumpkin.

And, I shared how helpful it is for me to pray before and after (and even during) my meal to ask God that the food should be “satiating, sufficient and satisfying.” I find that it has changed my whole attitude about my food and my abstinence. Thank you, Esther for sharing this wonderful tip!!!  

11-08-2020 #196. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the book A New Pair of Glasses by Chuck C. We are up to page 135:0.  Here is a link to the MP3’s of Chuck C.’s A New Pair of Glasses. The book is a transcription of the talks.

11-15-2020 #197. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the book A New Pair of Glasses by Chuck C. We are up to page 157:0.  Here is a link to the MP3’s of Chuck C.’s A New Pair of Glasses. The book is a transcription of the talks.

11-22-2020 #198. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we read and discussed the book A New Pair of Glasses by Chuck C. We are up to page 177:0.  Here is a link to the MP3’s of Chuck C.’s A New Pair of Glasses. The book is a transcription of the talks.

11-29-2020 #199. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we completed the book A New Pair of Glasses by Chuck C. Here is a link to the MP3’s of Chuck C.’s A New Pair of Glasses. The book is a transcription of the talks.

Next week, we will begin to start the Steps again by reading the Original Manuscript with a “beginner’s mind.” We will be reading The Original Manuscript and The Original Little Red Book. After that, we will read Experience, Strength & Hope, the stories from the first three editions of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Please join us and “stay for the miracle!”

12-6-2020 #200. This is the link to the mp3. This week, we began reading and discussing the Original Manuscript with a “beginner’s mind” up to page 2:12.  A “beginner’s mind” is a concept from Zen Buddhism that refers to having an attitude of openness, eagerness and lack of preconceptions when studying a subject, even when studying at an advanced level, just as a beginner would. 

The concept dovetails beautifully with this quote from the AA Big Book:

“We find that no one need have difficulty with the spirituality of the program.  Willingness, honesty and open mindedness are the essentials of recovery.  But these are indispensable.” (Appendix II, “Spiritual Experience”, Alcoholics Anonymous, page 567-568)

We agreed that we would read one page at a time and then discuss what we learned or observed. Our goal is to follow the instructions as outlined in the AA Big Book and recover.

I also send out the highlighting instructions for those who are interested from RA, who have a beautiful way of going through the steps using the Original Manuscript.

Please join us and “stay for the miracle!”

Here are the instructions for highlighting the AA BB Original Manuscript:

“R.A.’s Highlighting Introduction”

We suggest that you use a red fine point marker and a yellow highlighter.

First: Quickly scan through the Big Book from the title page through page 164, the end of A Vision For You. (Multilith Big Book page 76)

As you are scanning, underline the following words with red:

Also underline any variations on these words.

As soon as you have underlined a word, highlight the full sentence that word is in, with yellow. Then use the tip of the yellow highlighter to underline a sentence or two before and/or after this main sentence. Doing this will help you to understand the main sentence and keep it in context.

Second: As soon as you have finished underlining, and highlighting, go back to the title page. Quickly read all the parts you have just highlighted. Then answer the following three questions:

Then, to see if your answers match the Big Book’s, read the first paragraph on page xiii. Then read page 25. Finally, read the bottom paragraph on page 84. (Multilith Big Book pages U, 11, 38)

We suggest that you then read, underline, and highlight appendix II “Spiritual Experience,” on page 567, at the very end of the Big Book

Third: Quickly skim the Big Book from the title page through page 164 (Multilith page 76), to see the highlights you found in context. You should only spend two or three hours doing all of this. Then, as it says on page 95 in the third paragraph, you will need to decide for yourself if you want to go on. Will you follow what the Big Book on page 29 says are the pioneers’ “clear-cut directions”?