The Spirit of “Live and Let Live”
October 30, 2008 by Mark
Filed under Diseases & Conditions
I wonder how many of us in this “new era” of recovery through Internet resources are truly willing to accept this tenet?
From today’s Daily Reflection;
“Never since it began has Alcoholics Anonymous been divided by a major controversial issue. Nor has our Fellowship ever publicly taken sides on any question in an embattled world. This, however, has been no earned virtue. It could almost be said that we were born with it. … ‘So long as we don’t argue these matters privately, it’s a cinch we never shall publicly.”
To note quickly – had I not discovered that someone lacking the courage personally to offer a rebuttal to my face about crosstalk, I’d never have been in an arguing state of mind about it. I won’t apologize for standing for something I believe in – it would have been more adult if cowardice not been a part of that equation. If you can’t say it to my face, don’t say it behind my back.
“Do I remember that I have a right to my opinion but that others don’t have to share it? That’s the spirit of ‘Live and Let Live.’ … Do I remember that my opinions come from my experience? If I have a know-it-all attitude, aren’t I being deliberately controversial?”
What naturally happens? We step on the toes of our fellows and they retaliate.
