by Bob K.
Pickering Twelve Traditions
All AA members, both Christians and non-Christians, so easily joined together during the recent holidays in shared sentiments of kindness, selflessness and the love of our fellow man. Above all is our gratitude for having undergone “miraculous” transformations, as the result of our twelve step process.
Like Ebeneezer Scrooge of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the alcoholic in AA “realizes that he has undergone a profound alteration in his reaction to life… our more religious members call it ‘God-consciousness.’”
It is our gift that we are able, in our gatherings, to remind each other to experience these feelings of “Christmas spirit” throughout the year. This we accomplish, I think, better than most.
In the Twelve and Twelve’s discussion of the third tradition – “The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking” – early members were faced with a difficult decision regarding admittance of an “unconventional” seeker of recovery. Potentially, this “pariah” could do great harm to the reputation of the fledgling organization thus affecting “AA as a whole.” The simple thought, “What would the Master do?” decided the matter. “Not another word was said. What more indeed could be said?”
Our current issue of some controversy concerns the possible re-listing of two agnostic AA groups. It may be timely to once more pose the question, “What would the Master do?” The answer is obvious – Christ “de-listed” no one. He even walked among the lepers!
Thanks for your thoughts Bob K, you’ve helped me on my journey today, and I am grateful.
I must admit I do like a good question, and that is indeed a good question. I too have experienced “a profound alteration in his reaction to life,” and so I’d better practice my new found ability to let go of unhealthy things.
My higher power, I think, would point out that the still suffering alcoholic – of whatever faith, or lack of it as was my condition upon first entering the rooms – needs a safe sober place to go that welcomes with open arms. Meeting lists show us the doors. So, why stand in the way of the still suffering alcoholic?
I believe my higher power would then allow the outcomes to be, learn from the experience, and determine next steps quite soberly. I don’t suspect drinking would become a better idea through any of this.
Our primary purpose will remain intact as the wood continues to burn. I for one don’t plan on getting so close that I get burned, so I will stand firm, calmly suggesting that the realm of faith is indeed inclusive, and do my part to keep the gateway open.
This “AA-approved” source may offer more on that notion: http://www.aa.org/en_pdfs/f-13_winter09.pdf
From this text reads: “Every voice was playing its appointed part. Our atheists and agnostics widened our gateway so that all who suffer might pass through, regardless of their belief or lack of belief.”
Be well, my friends, be well.
Hello, my name is John K. I would like to thank Roger and two other recovering alcoholics for their visit to the CAMH Detox Unit on Christmas Eve. All in attendance were very grateful. I was happy and grateful to meet like-minded members of AA. I look forward to seeing all at OISE on Saturday. I will check the time on the website. Thank you. John K.