I think that groups go through phases of development.

I used to talk about my FOO. My family of origin.

Also my GOO. My group of origin. I think there are boundaries, and ways of talking about group stuff. But I am very wary of the talk- for myself.

I think that different members have different standards and boundaries- when talking about group stuff. And I always try to err of the side of

caution.

I found that the 12 Traditions provided the basis for group life. In the same way that the steps provided the foundation for a personal life.

For me I actually believe that group business meeting is different from a conscience meeting. It was sort of a private joke- that in our neck of the

woods- our minutes were kept in a chocolate box, and our finances in a pickle jar.

In my local F2F meeting last Thursday our finances were discussed.

On reflection- hurrah! This conversation "just happened". But it was like a healthy family situation. Where there was transparency, and a forward looking honesty. 

Questions about our finances were taken to assembly- and there is no reason to discuss them here.  ...

This not not a very interesting or dynamic share.

I think is about structure- and the "givens" that revolves around Alanon groups.

I was at the airport three weeks ago and saw our area delegate heading "up north" to our national conference. As an old timer I am happy that I have some contact with

all these levels of service.

A close friend this week asked me why I still bother with Alanon. Good question.

Everyone everywhere is coming out of the covid crisis... out of our bunkers. so we cannot expect any organisation to be operating at it's peak.

I had doubts about the survival of Alanon in these inland valleys.

But I have given I my best shot.

All any one person can do.

One thing I found out- that groups are thriving where there is 100% support from AA.

There may be other good reasons too... 

It is a foggy day here. 

I was woken with a start at 6 a.m. by Paddy- our youngest grandkid.

We told him to go and rest until 7 a.m. A good move. 

He is sitting beside me now as I write this.

MIP Alanon has given me a really strong grounding. The slogan, which was my lode-star i borrowed from Alanon Concept 4.

"Participation is the key to harmony."

Since I believe that conscience issues, and business issues are a but different- I find that conscience issues are best dealt with "on the wing"

or "on the hop". As we go along- sometimes one on one- sorting our what works- and what feels comfortable.

On one lf my online groups this week- one member "fell out of the nest". With a thud, really. I didn't rush out to rescue.

The person was a NZer- and I offered a little support- that was all.

I think we all avoid crises, or showdowns.

I think it is much easier to be pro-active.

To use the traditions- in a practical functional way-

and the steps when we [or I] have to make some change.  ...

Seeing the development of some group norms- gives me some idea of what boundaries might be like. Healthy ones...

Thanks for the share...  ...