Our controlling attitude can easily drive away the newcomer.
Yes just for today we will stop trying to control the newcomer with the clarity statement.We can see now through the na traditions that na should not try to control any of its members for now we know that all na members and especially new comers are encouraged to use their own words alcoholic/sober when sharing the simple message of their own experience at an na gathering,
Trad.11 pg.208 Each of us has our own life,our own words and our own story,all adding dimension and color to the message of our fellowship.
It works How and Why.
Tradition 8 Pg 188,What is Narcotics Anonymous, after all, but a fellowship of addicts freely sharing with one another the simple message of their own experience.
Just for today we give thanks for the na traditions. Just for today we give thanks that we now know when we try to control na members with the clarity statement we drive them away.
Hi Rosie, I've noticed that you post on this topic often. I can only assume that you have been met with harsh criticism when expressing yourself at meetings. I am sorry if that is your experience. While different people here at MIP will have different opinions about the clarity statement, I have never seen any of the regular posters ever criticize anyone for saying "sober" or "alcoholic" or any of the trigger words that seem to incite some members of our fellowship. I am proud to be an active member of this board. Here I see that spiritual principles are the guideline, not some dogma. I hope that as time passes you will feel more secure in the knowledge that here at MIP you are welcome to be who you are, sharing your pain as well as your experience, strength, and hope in an atmosphere of tolerance, acceptance and love. If there is one "rule" here, it probably goes something like this "respect you fellow MIP members for they too have suffered" I am very glad that you have chosen to become an active part of our community.
