![]() We may assume that our most seasoned members are above such tasks or that they'd volunteer if they were interested. And yet, the names of those still with us might not come to mind when we need to recruit panelists for H&I, hosts for the convention's hospitality room, or facilitators for the newcomer orientation. We are the direct beneficiaries of our predecessors' vision and generosity. An interlinked series of relationships define the history of almost every NA community. We open doors for others to practice generosity in turn, they reach out to bring others along. Generously serving each other and NA develops our capacity we grow as human beings, and NA grows as a Fellowship. Longtime members assure us that this is no accident. As we support other members, meetings, and service bodies-and rope others into doing the same-our generosity is evident in our contributions. Service often gives us our first sustained exposure to the good feelings that come with giving of ourselves. By then, we recognize that some of the benefits we derive from service come from practicing love and generosity. Years later, we're the ones nominating newcomers for those same lifesaving commitments. ![]() We trusted that they knew a thing or two, so we surrendered to doing as they suggested. We complied back then since the people suggesting that we make coffee, set out literature, or greet people at the door were clean, after all. We do it with love, remembering our own reluctance to volunteer, and with gratitude for what early service opportunities gave us. Railroading newcomers into service is an age-old tradition in NA. Living Clean, Chapter 7, "Being of Service" It’s important to remember that while Alcoholics Anonymous may be anonymous for its members there are many misconceptions about what we do or how we work with alcoholics (even within our own ranks)."When we allow another person to step up and help us, we give them a chance to express their own love and generosity." If these personalities happened to have slipped, outsiders would think our movement is not strong and they might question the veracity of the miracle of the century. ![]() There is a well-known saying in Alcoholics Anonymous that it would be harmful if the Fellowship promoted itself by publicizing, through the media of radio and TV, the sobriety of well-known public personalities who became members of A.A. The anonymity behind alcoholism does indeed protect addicts by keeping them safe from judgment but there needs to remain some degree at least so long as we’re able to recognize when people need help without having done anything wrong yet… It would be harmful if outsiders thought our organization promoted itself through publicizing those famous members’ slips they might question whether or not AAWA’s strength was real After all – what goes up must come down! After all, the miracle of continuous sobriety within this movement confirms that alcohol addiction can be overcome with time and support from others in recovery who are fighting their own battles as well. The Fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous is a unique community. affiliation to achieve recognition, power, or personal gain. At the level of press, radio, TV, and films, anonymity stresses the equality in the Fellowship of all members by putting the brake on those who might otherwise exploit their A.A. Thank you, God, for this gift of sobriety.Īt the personal level, anonymity provides protection for all members from identification as alcoholics, a safeguard often of special importance to newcomers. Today, I will stay sober and help someone else stay sober too. ![]() I’m grateful for my sponsor and all the support I’ve received from my recovery community. I’m grateful for all the work I’ve put in to get where I am today. They remind us of our goals, and they keep us accountable. Daily reflections can be so helpful for keeping on track.
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