WE STAND—OR FALL—TOGETHER

Daily Reflections - SEPTEMBER 16

. . . no society of men and women ever had a more urgent need for continuous effectiveness and permanent unity. We alcoholics  see  that  we  must  work  together  and  hang together, else most of us will finally die alone.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p. 562

Just as the Twelve Steps of A.A. are written in a specific sequence for a reason, so it is with the Twelve Traditions. The First Step and the First Tradition attempt to instill in me enough humility to allow me a chance at survival. Together  they are  the  basic  foundation  upon  which  the Steps and Traditions that follow are built. It is a process of ego deflation which allows me to grow as an individual through the Steps, and as a contributing member of a group through   the   Traditions.   Full   acceptance   of   the   First Tradition allows me to set aside personal ambitions, fears and anger when they are in conflict with the common good, thus permitting me to work with others for our mutual survival. Without Tradition One I stand little chance of maintaining the unity required to work with others effectively,   and   I   also   stand   to   lose   the   remaining Traditions, the Fellowship, and my life.