Each month we focus on the Step, Tradition, and Concept of the month, and provide a quote from Bill W. This is a quick and easy way to learn about these important pillars of the program.
Step 9
Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
As soon as we begin to feel confident in our new way of life and have begun, by our behavior and example, to convince those about us that we are indeed changing for the better, it is usually safe to talk in complete frankness with those who have been seriously affected, even those who may be only a little or not at all aware what we have done to them.
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, p. 85
Tradition 9
A.A., as such, ought never be organized; but we may create service boards or committees directly responsible to those they serve.
It is clear now that we ought never to name boards to govern us, but it is equally clear that we shall always need to authorize workers to serve us. It is the difference between the spirit of vested authority and the spirit of service, two concepts which are sometimes poles apart.
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, p. 174
Concept 9
Good service leaders, together with sound and appropriate methods of choosing them, are at all levels indispensable for our future functioning and safety. The primary world service leadership once exercised by the founders of A.A. must necessarily be assumed by the Trustees of the General Service Board of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Good leadership originates plans, policies, and ideas for the improvement of our Fellowship and its services. But in new and important matters, it will nevertheless consult widely before taking decisions and actions. Good leadership will also remember that a fine plan or idea can come from anybody, anywhere.
Twelve Concepts for World Service, p. 37
