Our Trusted Servants
ALMOST every organisation in the world, whether a business, a church or a charity, has some form of hierarchy. There are managers, directors or leaders who make decisions, together with rules and procedures that govern how the organisation operates. AA is different. “Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism…AA is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organisation or institution…” (AA Grapevine, 1947) There are no governing bodies or membership regulations in AA. Our ultimate authority is “…a loving God as He may express Himself in our group conscience.” (12&12 p.132) however each member understands that Higher Power. “The only requirement for A.A. membership is a desire to stop drinking.” (12&12 p.139)
Dr. Bob once said to Bill W., “Remember, Bill, let’s not louse this thing up. Let’s keep it simple!” (Daily Reflections, p.30) Bill was so moved that he could not reply. It was the last time he ever saw Dr. Bob. I believe Dr. Bob was referring not only to the spiritual Programme of recovery, but also to the simple way our Fellowship functions. AA does need some organisation, but only enough to allow it to carry its message effectively. Every AA group needs a few trusted servants if it is to function smoothly. Groups elect people to carry out specific responsibilities – a secretary, treasurer, GSR, literature secretary and others. These positions rotate regularly, ensuring that no one begins to think they have authority over the group. Trusted servants are exactly that – servants. They are not leaders who give orders, nor can they tell members what to do or punish anyone for failing to follow suggestions.
Some members have many years of sobriety and a wealth of experience. We often look to these ‘old-timers’ for guidance, but even they cannot impose their opinions on anyone else. Groups join together in intergroups, which in turn form regions. Regions elect delegates to the General Service Conference, and the Conference elects the General Service Board. Various committees and service teams support this work, but they all have one purpose: to help carry the AA message to the alcoholic who still suffers. Because AA is not a legal organisation, it also needs trusted servants to represent the Fellowship when dealing with governments, public bodies and other organisations. They help protect our literature and ensure that AA can continue its work without compromising its Traditions. Those who serve in AA should always remember that leadership in our Fellowship means service, not authority.
Their usefulness depends not on power, but on the trust and respect of those they serve. They govern no one. Their responsibility is simply to carry out the tasks entrusted to them by the groups that elected them. Tradition Nine shows us how unity can exist without control. Each member is free, yet each of us willingly accepts responsibility for the good of our group and of AA as a whole. When everyone plays their part in a spirit of service, our Fellowship remains both united and free. Grateful to AA.
ANON, Slough
Translated from Polish by Aleksandra A, from WyspiAArze nr 3 (62) / 2022