. . . . A.A. is really saying to every serious drinker, "You are an A.A. member if you say so . . . nobody can keep you out." TWELVE STEPS AND TWELVE TRADITIONS, p. 139
For years, whenever I reflected on Tradition Three ("The only requirement for A.A. membership is a desire to stop drinking"), I thought it valuable only to newcomers. It was their guarantee that no one could bar them from A.A. Today I feel enduring gratitude for the spiritual development the Tradition has brought me. I don't seek out people obviously different from myself. Tradition Three, concentrating on the one way I am similar to others, brought me to know and help every kind of alcoholic, just as they have helped me. Charlotte, the atheist, showed me higher standards of ethics and honor; Clay, of another race, taught me patience; Winslow, who is gay, led me by example into true compassion; Young Megan says that seeing me at meetings, sober thirty years, keeps her coming back. Tradition Three insured that we would get what we need - each other.
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* We eventually realize that just as the pains of alcoholism had to come before sobriety, emotional turmoil comes before serenity. *
Thanking God that I learned the true meaning of tolerance in the AA rooms, something I can honestly say I have not seen in other places I go. I know there are a few who might still have some prejudices, I haven't heard them because I don't open the door to their intolerance.
Tolerance and honesty are the two things that stand out to me about AA. It feels so strange to walk in and know very few people but feel accepted and welcomed. The group I was in yesterday was more diverse than others, but it felt great because they were all just real people, trying to do their best and stay sober. These folks were of different races, sexes, ages, education, and finances, but all had alcoholism in common-and were willing to meet and share honesty in regard to the disease. I keep saying this to myself, and occassionally to others-I feel lucky to be an alcoholic at times! Some AA meetings leave me so grateful to get to meet such people as attend!
