Understanding Tradition Six: Staying True to AA's Purpose
Episode Overview
Tradition Six advises against AA endorsing or financing outside enterprises. Maintaining focus on AA's primary mission is crucial for its success. Past attempts to expand AA's influence into other areas have been problematic. Ego can distract from AA's core purpose and should be managed. Keeping AA's work separate from other enterprises helps maintain its integrity.
We of Alcoholics Anonymous could not be all things to all men, nor should we try.
In this episode of the RAW Recovery Podcast, Dion Miller dives into Tradition Six from the 12 x 12 series. Dion's approach is casual and relatable, making it easy for anyone to understand the core principles of this tradition. Tradition Six emphasises that AA groups should never endorse, finance, or lend their name to any related facility or outside enterprise to avoid distractions from their primary purpose.
Dion breaks down the historical context and real-world implications of this tradition with a mix of humour and honesty. He discusses how the ego can interfere with the group's mission and why it's crucial to stay focused on their main goal - helping alcoholics achieve sobriety. Dion also touches on the importance of keeping AA's work separate from other enterprises, even if they seem beneficial.
He shares anecdotes about past attempts to expand AA's influence into areas like education and politics, which ultimately proved problematic. By highlighting these lessons, Dion reinforces the importance of adhering to Tradition Six to maintain AA's integrity and effectiveness. If you're looking for a thoughtful yet entertaining exploration of AA traditions, this episode is a must-listen.