The “Worth” of Sobriety

 One look at politics these days tells me everything I need to know about our Seventh Tradition - “Every A.A. group should be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions”. There is too much implied ownership which comes along with financial “gifts”. Large donors expect large rewards, and feel that they now have a voice in all decisions. That doesn’t mesh with the idea of a “group conscience” when it comes to how any individual group is going to order their priorities. 

All groups agree to abide by the Traditions, just as each individual is expected to follow the suggested steps, if they truly want to experience the spiritual release from addiction which has been enjoyed by countless others through the decades. The Traditions are the gutter bumpers in the bowling alley, the direction signs on our path to the summit.

So - what am I contributing? Since Zoom meetings have been so prevalent, it’s been easy for me to skate, to attend without giving. When I go to in-person meetings, I drop my contribution in the basket. Sometimes I give generously, but usually, it’s my paltry two bucks. In truth, my sobriety is worth far more than I’ve given, so what is my next right action? 

If the groups I enjoy don’t accept outside contributions, then the answer is clear: the members themselves must step up. I must step up. All taking and no giving creates a karmic imbalance. I’d be wise to remember this principle, both in my sobriety fellowships, and in all my personal dealings.