The material presented
here is not Al-Anon Conference Approved Literature. It is a method
to exchange
information, ideas, feelings, problems and solutions on a personal
level.
The ODAT reading for October 31, reinforces the importance of the Traditions and explains in detail that All-Anon is a fellowship of equals. Groups are held together in close union by obedience to the unenforceable.
This is an interesting concept and actually means that each group conducts Al-Anon work according to the spiritual principles of the traditions. Each group has agreed to accept these Traditions on their own and to follow them by their own free will without being forced .
The reading goes on to reinforce this concept by saying that the fourth tradition states that each group should be autonomous. This does not mean that we can run our meetings.anyway, we want and use any literature. This tradition. Simply means. The reading in the meetings, according to the traditions outline of the group to parts of the ideas and procedures in a the greater good for the greatest number is damaging. Each group must review questions or problems against the 12 traditions for their answers that is why it's so important to know them. The unity of all Al-Anon on this adherence.
Happy Halloween, Betty, and thank you for your service.
The importance of traditions is an interesting topic. It seems to me that the founders of Al-Anon were wise in setting up each group to be autonomous and also governed by the 12 traditions. This allows groups to be flexible, to best fit the needs and styles of their members, while also carrying out the important work of the program. And, how wonderful that there is consistency and differences in approach at the same time. members can explore local meetings until they find one that fits, and meetings can change as the needs of members change.
I used to wonder why we read the steps and the traditions at each group meeting, and why such attention was paid to the steps and the traditions in the daily readings, but as I have spent more time in the program, I have developed a greater understanding for the importance of these readings, particularly when we are self-governed and a fellowship of equals.
I hope everyone has a spectacularly spooky day!
__________________
Skorpi
If you are depressed, you are living in the past. If you are anxious, you are living in the future. If you are at peace, you are living in the present. - Lao Tzu
I guess I still have trouble connecting with the traditions and concepts of service . I recognize their purpose and value but I embrace the steps, slogans, opening and closing readings readily and personally. I guess in time I will understand their value more, but for today I will try to keep it simple, keep my head over my feet, let go and let God, and remember ODAT, Lyne
Good morning Betty & Skorpi - happy Halloween to one and all. The traditions have helped me keep some level of sanity during 'trying times'. I'm struggling now as the treasurer for my group. Long story short, a member submitted expense reports from almost 2 years ago that will wipe out the majority of our funds. My first reaction was to resign from the fellowship role as I was brought up in business to give receipts (she gave me a handwritten note in a text without any receipts).
I really had to sit with myself and try to determine what is the proper way to deal with this. Of course, we only have business meetings once a month and it was last week. The member did not raise the expenses or the report or anything. I have determined that it is my job only to share back with the group what has been provided and allow the group to brainstorm how we manage through this.
I am amazed that the founders had the grace and faith to define/design the traditions for us. That's what keeps Al-Anon focused on recovery and moving forward. I've said it before and I'll say it again - only in recovery is there truly equality in doing what's best for the group as a whole. I am grateful.
Enjoy the day, enjoy the costumes, enjoy the candy and the little people! (((Hugs))) to all!
__________________
Practice the PAUSE...Pause before judging. Pause before assuming. Pause before accusing. Pause whenever you are about to react harshly and you will avoid doing and saying things you will later regret. ~~~~ Lori Deschene
Thanks everyone for yout thoughts I know that early on I could not relate the Traditions however when I witnessed how well the program functioned world wide , I decided to study the Traditions . They are simple (like the steps) but hold a whole host of constructive tools for working in and with a group. I implemented many in my Business life. Thank you alanon and MIP
