[jimhere]

In light of what has been happening on a few recent threads, I thought of this little bit of info from the pamphlet "The A.A. Group...where it all begins."

I think some one posted on one of those other threads that sometimes things get a little heated in discusion of matters vital to A.A.'s survival and our own individual sobriety. We are passionate people, so when things get a little heated , it is natural. I even think a little tension is necessary in the creative process. So, contrary to some views, a little controversy now and then is not a bad thing, if it moves the discussion in the right direction. It is just a little uncomfortable for some of us. Knowing how we alkies dislike being uncomfortable, we avoid discussion and controversy, hiding it under the guise of tolerance. We are to avoid controversy at the public level, but not necessarily in A.A. itself, as long as it is not controversy for the sake of controversy.

What is an informed group conscience?

"The group conscience is the collective conscience of the group membership and thus represents substantial unanimity on an issue before definitive action is taken. This is achieved by the group members through the sharing of full information, individual points of view, and the practice of A.A. principles. To be fully informed requires a willingness to listen to minority opinions with an open mind." A good idea can come from any one, any time, but I need to be listening.

Tradition Two states that the voice of a loving God is expressed through the group's conscience. That can only happen if we all get to be God's voice. The minority view is the most important voice we have. For a few reasons-it can stir some healthy discussiuon. It keeps the dominating voices in check, and it keeps us from being tryannized by a hasty, ill-informed, angry majority. The only way I can hear God's voice is if I am listening. We think AA is all about talking when it is really about listening. My very life depends upon my thinking of you and how I can help you get your needs met. How can I help you if I'm not listening to you. I can't hear you if I am so involved in getting my point across, so I must practice the principle of sacrifice. I've got set aside my need for recognition and prestige and work towards the good of the whole.

The Big Book states that an attitude of respect and tolerance towards the views of others is what makes us more useful. So, tolerance and respect are two principles I can practice. When I listen to you, I am showing respect for you. Another principle I can practice is humility-not that I know what that is. I think I might mean that maybe I am just one of you. Maybe it means that I should keep my mouth shut sometimes. I can compromise if need be, if that means it will benefit the group. Other times I may have to stick to my guns and agree to disagree with my friends, or be willing to take criticism from the people who don't really like me (and there are a few). Or maybe I can set aside my ideas if yours are better.

Finally, "Principles, before personalities." All of the above lead to that. But that doesn't mean there shouldn't be personalities here. If we were all the same, not much would get done. If any two of us were the same, one of us would be unnecessary. But I do know that A.A. certainly doesn't need two of me-LOL! But it does need all of us.
Jim