Improving the Fellowship

I spent many years reacting to crises, both in my family and in my service positions. My mind was trained to only put out fires. Concept Nine asks more of leadership than keeping things running. It calls for plans and policies that improve the fellowship. The purpose of an idea matters as much as the willingness to suggest it.

When I see something I want to change, I can ask: Would this help our group carry the Al-Anon message to people affected by someone else’s drinking? Would it make it easier for members to participate or share responsibility? Or would it mainly arrange things the way I prefer them?

My preferences are not necessarily wrong, but they are not the only measure of what will help. I can ask my Higher Power for help keeping the fellowship’s needs at the center. Listening to others may reveal a need I overlooked or a better way to address it. My part is to offer thoughtful suggestions and remain willing to let the group shape them. An idea does not have to remain mine to become useful.