“A.A., as such, ought never be organized.” And as the long form of tradition nine suggests, “Rotating leadership is the best.”

Every service position I’ve ever held has brought a new awareness of the multifaceted aspects of this Fellowship that we call Alcoholics Anonymous. At the end of the two year commitment I am always ready to rotate out and move on to something new. That usually happens just when I begin to feel like I know what I’m supposed to be doing! That is part of the beauty of rotation, the necessity of rotation. If I continue more than a two year commitment the position becomes mine, rather than me serving it, it would serve me. It would become totally backwards and upside down. I’ve seen that happen more than once with predictable results.

Besides it’s exciting to see ‘new blood’ come in and not only bring new energy and direction, but to experience the same blessings of growth and understanding that I have. It is exciting to see. I’ve heard people grumble, “Rotation isn’t the same people rotating through the various jobs.” To them I say, “Be the change you want to see. Stand for one of those Board of Trustee positions or Standing Committees. If you don’t it will be the same dedicated people joyfully serving the Fellowship that has saved their lives.”

My service sponsor told me that, “Service is gratitude in action.” I love that, as well as the statement that, “God does not call the qualified, He qualifies the called.” My only addition to that last statement is to be sure you’re called and not just, “well I meet the minimum requirements to stand.”

We truly are blessed to have this Fellowship, the Steps of recovery, the Service structure and all these wonderful people! A.A. not only saved my life but it continues to give me a life worth living.

Doug R.
Newsletter Chair