AA’s Tradition 12 and Step 12: The Spiritual Foundation
By Doug W. Tradition Twelve, with its emphasis on anonymity, embodies all previous traditions. The Twelve Traditions apply the spiritual principles of the Steps to our group interactions and relationships with society.
Tradition 12 - The Long Form
“And finally, we of Alcoholics Anonymous believe that the principle of anonymity has an immense spiritual significance. It reminds us that we are to place principles before personalities; that we are actually to practice a genuine humility. This to the end that our great blessings may never spoil us; that we shall forever live in thankful contemplation of Him who presides over us all.”
When you think about it, anonymity is a spiritual practice and sacrifice in training ourselves to put our egos aside. It’s like when we step back from wanting the spotlight whether it is in a meeting or at the national level and instead focus on what’s good for everyone in A.A. — that practice keeps the Fellowship functioning well. Staying anonymous helps us remember that A.A.’s ideas and principles matter way more.
From The A.A. Group ... where it all begins (P-16)
What is the purpose of anonymity in A.A.? Why is it often referred to as the greatest single protection the Fellowship has to assure its continued existence and growth?
At the level of press, television, radio, film and the Internet, anonymity stresses the equality in A.A. of all its members. It puts the brake on our easily inflatable egos, our misplaced conviction that violating our anonymity will help someone, and our desire for personal recognition or control. Most importantly, the Anonymity Tradition reminds us that it is the A.A. message, not the messenger, that counts.
At the personal level, anonymity assures privacy for all members, a safeguard often of special significance to newcomers who may hesitate to seek help in A.A. if they have any reason to believe their alcoholism may be exposed publicly.
In theory, the anonymity principle seems clear, but putting it into effect is not always easy. Following are some general guidelines culled from A.A. group experience that may be helpful.
Reprinted from (From The A.A. Group ... where it all begins (P-16), Page 8), with permission of Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc.
The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions (B-2)
The spiritual substance of anonymity is sacrifice.
… The promoter instinct in us might be our undoing. …
… At this altitude (press, radio, films, and television), anonymity— 100 percent anonymity— was the only possible answer. Here, principles would have to come before personalities, without exception.
… As we lay aside these very human aspirations, we believe that each of us takes part in the weaving of a protective mantle which covers our whole Society and under which we may grow and work in unity.
Reprinted from (The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions (B-2), Pages 184 and 187), with permission of Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc.
Step 12 - Having Had a Spiritual Awakening
“Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.”
Step 12 is the culmination of our spiritual journey through the previous eleven steps. It encompasses three essential elements:
- A spiritual awakening that occurs as the result of working the steps
- Carrying the message to other alcoholics
- Practicing these principles in all aspects of life
The Spiritual Awakening
The spiritual awakening mentioned in Step 12 represents a new state of consciousness and being that comes as a free gift from being rigorously honest (to the best of our ability) with the previous steps. This awakening varies from person to person. A spiritual experience is seen as fast, and spiritual awakening is slow—the difference between a light switch and a dimmer switch. In both cases the light comes on and results in a profound change in how we think, feel, and view the world.
Carrying the Message
The act of carrying the message to other alcoholics is not just a suggestion - it’s essential for maintaining our own sobriety. This service work ranges from formal twelve-step calls to simple acts of sharing your experience, strength, and hope with fellow alcoholics.
Practicing These Principles
The final aspect of Step 12 challenges us to practice these principles in all our affairs. This means applying the spiritual principles such as, but not limited too - honesty, hope, faith, courage, integrity, willingness, humility, love, discipline, perseverance, spiritual awareness, and service - to every area of our lives.
The Intersection of Step 12 and Tradition 12
Together, Step 12 and Tradition 12 create a life changing framework for our personal recovery and the fellowship unity. While Step 12 guides us in personal spiritual growth and service, Tradition 12 ensures that when we come together whether in a meeting that our service remains pure and free from personal ambition or recognition.
Think of anonymity as a shield that keeps both you and A.A. safe. It helps everyone focus on what really matters - the message itself, not who’s saying it. This humbling approach makes sure A.A.’s primary purpose - *to carry the message to the alcoholic who still suffers* - without us getting tangled up in who gets credit.
We are thankful contemplation of Him who presides over us all.