Our Group has a reputation for being a bit hard-core. I mean, we expect folks to read a chapter in the 12x12
before the meeting, usually supply 4 or so people for intergroup and General Service work, discuss a tradition once a month, and we let the meeting run past one hour. All these things are exceptional.
I guess I am a bit of a hard-core AA myself. I have only had this one group as a home group my whole time, I look at everything through the lens of the steps, I have an ex-Marine sponsor who is a past delegate, and I tend to tell newcomers you need to build a new life, and attack the program and the steps with all the desperation of the dying. I've seen lately a more relaxed approach is better with many, and I offer today's
Daily Reflections meditation as example.
Quote:
Quote:
We trust that we already know what our several freedoms truly are; that no future generation of AA’s will ever feel compelled to limit them. Our AA freedoms create the soil in which genuine love can grow. . . . LANGUAGE OF THE HEART, p. 303
I craved freedom. First, freedom to drink; later, freedom from drink. The A.A. program of recovery rests on a foundation of free choice. There are no mandates, laws or commandments. A.A.’s spiritual program, as outlined in the Twelve Steps, and by which I am offered even greater freedoms, is only suggested. I can take it or leave it. Sponsorship is offered, not forced, and I come and go as I will. It is these and other freedoms that allow me to recapture the dignity that was crushed by the burden of drink, and which is so dearly needed to support an enduring sobriety.
Hank has set a good example by being there when I need to work on things, and giving me freedom when I want. I will still work the program my way, our group will remain the haven for those who are serious step nazis, there is a tool for every nut. But, please don't take this thread as the end all and be all of how AA is. It's just one guy from one group in Ohio.
-Chuck, Vegetarian fanboy 
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