The 9th Tradition of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a cornerstone of the 12 steps and the recovery process. It serves as a guide for those seeking to achieve a deep and lasting spiritual recovery from alcohol addiction. The tradition emphasizes the importance of detachment from control, self-organization, and spontaneous service to others.
The AA 9th tradition begins with the realization that one has fully faced and processed their past experiences with alcohol. This includes acknowledging mistakes, hurtful behaviors, and the emotional impacts of substance abuse. With this awareness comes a sense of freedom from shame, pain, and the need for forgiveness. One reaches a point of total oneness and peace with their past, indicating a deep emotional healing has taken place.
The AA 9th tradition is not about governing or controlling the fellowship, but about serving and being of service to others. This approach is in contrast to the spirit of vested authority, where individuals attempt to tell others what to do. Instead, the focus is on the spirit of service, where individuals commit to helping others without having their own lives controlled by others.
The AA 9th tradition also addresses the relationship between service and organization. It emphasizes that service is not about creating a structure or hierarchy, but about cultivating a genuine desire to help others. When the divine order of the relationship is disrupted, individuals can restore order by making amends. This ensures that their lives flow unimpeded by divine love.
The final step of the AA 9th tradition poses the question, “After making amends, how do I stay reconciled with you today?” The answer lies in not organizing oneself, myself, or God. By remaining in divine order, individuals can continue to provide service to others and experience the deep peace and joy that comes from a meaningful and heartfelt connection with others., the AA 9th tradition is a powerful guide for those seeking to achieve a deep and lasting recovery from alcohol addiction. It emphasizes the importance of detachment from control, self-organization, and spontaneous service to others. By following this tradition, individuals can achieve a sense of oneness and peace with their past while also cultivating a genuine desire to help others.
