A Powerful Tradition

 So, our Big Book was going to be called “The Way Out”, until someone found that there were already 12 other books with that title. 12 is a mystical number, I believe. We in 12-Steps recovery are partial to it!

Thus was the stage set for the title “Alcoholics Anonymous” - the name of the book, the name of the movement, and a template for our spiritual recovery. We’re a wonderful conglomeration of different personalities and cultures, all learning to set aside those differences to concentrate on that affliction which binds us as one. We learn to utilize our unique gifts in our common cause, setting ego to the side.

At least, that’s the idea. By accepting anonymity in the outside world, the focus is on our individual and collective recoveries. I have been given such a remarkable gift in the process, one for which I’m deeply grateful. I am learning the value of us. “Me first” has no place in the rooms of recovery. I’m learning to look at myself in the Light of Love, and to see every one of us in that same Light. The tradition of anonymity demands that I see us in you and me.

Each individual light joining others, becoming the illumination showing all of us The Way Out. Splendid!

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