Attraction, Not Promotion
Our public relations policy is based on attraction rather than promotion; we need always maintain personal anonymity at the level of press, radio, films, and T.V.
I used to leave pamphlets on the kitchen counter. I would 'casually' mention how much better I felt after a meeting, hoping the alcoholic would take the hint. I was selling recovery like a used car salesman, desperate to close the deal. This was promotion, and it reeked of manipulation. It never worked; it only created resistance.
Tradition Eleven teaches me that my life is the only advertisement needed. If I am serene, boundaried, and reasonably happy despite the difficulties, that speaks louder than any lecture. If I am frantic, controlling, and self-righteous while preaching Al-Anon, I am promoting a product I'm not using. Attraction means I focus on my own glow. When I am genuinely well, people (including the alcoholic) get curious. And even if they don't, I am still well. That is the attraction of sanity.
I can catch myself today if I start trying to 'convince' someone of something—whether it's to go to a meeting, eat better, or agree with me. I will stop mid-sentence and ask myself: 'Am I living this truth, or just selling it?' I will let my actions speak instead.
