As I read it, we are a member of NA when we say we are; we are not a member of the service structure when we say we are. Service has requirements; in kind, in clean time and in experience – not NA experience, that’s covered by clean time requirements. Experience in the way of having done that type of job before; having done something that helps to fulfill the task at hand.
It seems to me that stepping up and filling the roles that are available and need to be filled would take precedence over making new service burdens on the few that do get involved – and it seems that those new burdens are usually created by people who do not step up.
Additionally, it also seems to me that rather than arguing, yelling or complaining about the people we elect, we should be grateful that they stepped up and did something that we were not willing or able to do.
Change does not come from throwing bricks at the building from outside the gate – change comes from going in, taking responsibility, stepping up to the task, seeing how and why it is being done the way it’s being done; then maybe making suggestions based on the experience gained in that area.
No two areas work the same way and our Traditions govern our service, our Steps do not. Steps are for personal growth. Traditions are for the group and for our Service Structure. Not enough people are willing to step up to the challenge. I applaud those that do; for their service and for their commitment.
When I start seeing the people who “make suggestions” and “make motions” finally take on the responsibility, then I will applaud them. But it is my belief that if you don’t step up, then shut up.
I was told that a chairperson was needed for a new 0-dark-thirty meeting; and although I cannot stand getting out of bed 2 hours after I finally fall asleep, I agreed to do that meeting. I guess if I wanna make a suggestion, by my thinking, I could. But how many others can? That’s rhetorical. You know who you are.
Could I do more? I suppose I could. I used to do more. I used to do so much that I temporarily burned out. Now I do what I can and let others who want to, do more. But if I believe an area of service can use my input, I take a position in that area; I don’t throw bricks at the windows from outside the gate!
Remember, though, that if you do take on a role as trusted servant, be trustworthy. Read the Concepts and the Guide to Service. The Secretary’s report needs to include the last month’s minutes; the Chair’s report includes an agenda and ad hoc statuses. If you’re elected Treasurer, pay attention to the Treasurer’s Guide, write monthly reports; and have a ledger available showing debits, credits and receipts, because anyone in the group may ask for those things at any time – and it’s your responsibility to make sure that it’s available and correct. Everyone in NA knows that all of us in these rooms, at one time, probably stole something – some more than others – so don’t be surprised – and don’t be a dick about it – if you find yourself being asked to be accountable!
Now, for those that do take on the service commitments: Don’t ever walk out because of someone else. EVER! When and if someone else gets elected in your place – and they prove they can do it better, then you say, “Thank you for your service” and show the humility that your Program has taught you. But until that happens, take pride in what you do; in your accomplishments; in your ability to keep trudging through, regardless of those around you; because you are the one doing it. Hold your head high and never let anyone push you out! And NEVER quit because of other people’s jealousy. Because that’s what it is.
People that hide behind anonymity, and/or put others down, and/or complain about everything that anyone who is not them is doing – and then try to tell the you how much better than you they are – all the while telling you that they do it unconditionally, completely without pride or ego – are actually just showing their inability to practice Spiritual Principles. If someone has to tell me how great they are, who are they really trying to convince?
Finally, if anyone wants to call or email me to complain to me about how someone I sponsor is doing – or how someone sponsored by someone I sponsor is doing – please feel free. When I get a call or an email about someone in my sponsorship tree, I give the person they called about a gold star. To me that means that my sponsees are so goddamned important that someone needed to take time out of their day, their schedule, their Program, to complain to me about them; unless, of course, my people are being total dicks – which is rarely the case, though.
Makes me feel kind of important, too!
But please remember I have a 4 year old, so please don’t call too late or too early.
I love the Steps. I love the Traditions. I love this Program.
