Dear Reader
Making direct amends takes great courage and, for me, I needed a very strong connection with my Higher Power. No more self-righteous justification, no more blaming what had been done to me – I now had to be ready to take responsibility for all the damage I had done. I have to be totally honest with myself and being able to discuss anything I’m unsure of with my sponsor is vital. The Big Book and the 12&12 helped me gain a great deal of clarity, I knew I had the willingness to make amends, but did I have the spiritual strength? Step Nine may take me a lifetime to complete so I remain willing to take the opportunity to develop better relationships with those I have harmed when I can. Meanwhile, on a daily basis I am able to make indirect amends when I correct those behaviours which no longer serve any positive purpose. With increased self-awareness and discernment I am able to find peace and serenity within the challenges that life throws up.
The idea of rotating leadership within AA at every level is the underpinning concept within Tradition Nine. The Steps and Traditions of AA are guidelines for a spiritual way of living – they are not rules by which some members can govern. AA is a true Fellowship, a society where the spirit of service is at the forefront of our recovery. When I commit to service with love, it is a learning experience where I can practice tolerance and compassion toward myself and others. This is all part of the healing journey I embarked on when I attended my first AA meeting. AA is where I can learn how to live with no more blame… It’s all about personal responsibility.
So, you may have noticed that we’re not receiving many articles about how the Traditions have helped in the recovery journey. If you don’t feel you can write about a particular Tradition, why not ask your sponsor about that Tradition – then persuade them to write an article about their personal ESH around that Tradition.