Barry S. – Tradition – Unity Over Social Acceptability – 2013

About This Speaker Tape

Barry maps out the brutal reality of the first step, framing it not as a one-time admission but as a daily survival tactic. He cuts through the delusion of 'functioning' by recalling his days hanging wallpaper in Florida, making money hand over foot while still being a slave to the drug. He traces his path from a childhood start at age 11 to a long stretch of powerlessness that only broke when he finally stopped refusing to look at the disease.

Barry doesn't sugarcoat the wreckage—from hitting a rabbi at his own Bar M. to blowing thousands at blackjack tables in the Bahamas—but he anchors his current life in the 'here and now,' navigating health scares and the discipline of service. He argues that unity isn't just a group concept but a lifeline, insisting that the fellowship's survival depends on the individual's willingness to be selfless and accessible.

Topics

Timestamps

• 0:00 Introduction by James; praise for Barry's service and sponsorship.
• 1:15 Barry discusses a recent seizure and the fear of health issues in his lungs.
• 3:45 The 'coloring book' metaphor: Barry's habit of highlighting his literature with multiple colors.
• 6:10 Discussion on the 'disease of addiction' manifesting in different areas beyond just drugs.
• 9:20 Laughter: Story about hitting the rabbi at his Bar Mitzvah.
• 11:40 The 'burning desire' and the experience of seeing drugs 'going around' like Roger Rabbit.
• 15:10 Barry's experience with gambling and $5,000 markers at the blackjack table.
• 18:30 Transition to the First Tradition; discussion on unity and the NA symbol.
• 21:15 The importance of being accessible and welcoming to the newcomer 'smelling' of the street.
• 24:00 Closing thoughts on the necessity of unity for survival in the fellowship.