Tradition Twelve goes as follows: Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all our Traditions, ever reminding us to place principles above personalities.

When I first got into Al-Anon 15 years ago, I jumped into a Group Representative position early on in my recovery. That group was my home group for a long time...I loved it because it was the first group I went to when I got into recovery and I always felt welcome. The attendance of the group was always large and I always felt supported. However, the group folded because of a situation called "personalities above principles." Someone in the group got into an argument with someone else and the group membership dropped to nothing. As hard as I tried to keep it open, I had to close it down.

The point of this story is this: If we are busy arguing with each other, who is concentrating on recovery? If we are busy disregarding anonymity and making accusations, who is missing our experience, strength and hope? If we are having a hard day with our alcoholics who is gonna be here to help us if we are arguing with each other?

Before we open up our mouths to spew anger, is what we are saying
T houghtful
H onest
I ntelligent
N ecessary
K ind?

The love and support I find in this program if far more important to me than anger and drama.
Love you all,
SenoraBob