Tradtion Four

 Tradition Four 

 

It is of great importance that each group should be autonomous with respect to its own affairs – imagine the number of alcoholics that would never recover if every group was the same. I have heard it said that this group is a shambles, that group is too disciplined, that wouldn’t work for me, they do this or they do that. My only comment is thank god they do. In all these groups people are recovering from the seemingly hopeless condition of alcoholism. If one regularly attends a group and finds that at a group conscience decisions are made that one feels are contrary to the way one would like the group to be conducted, there is nothing to stop one from seeking the sort of group where one can find the fellowship one craves, or even start a new group.  Groups attract like-minded people, simply because they feel comfortable in that group. The more variety of groups there are the more alcoholics will recover.

I know from experience that my home group suits me; I need what it has to offer in order to recover.  However I made a big mistake in thinking that my group did everything right, and that the way my home group did things was the correct way. The result of this was that when visiting other groups meetings I felt that they had some how got it wrong, and I felt uncomfortable, even a little intolerant, and arrogant. I have since learned that any meeting where the message is carried is a good meeting.
           

We cannot however as a group, regional committee, or individual ever take any action that might greatly affect A.A. as a whole without conferring with the trustees of the General Service Board. On such issues our common welfare is paramount. We as a group must know our place; questioning things we feel can be improved as and when our group conscience dictates, through the accepted channels of Conference.