Clancy I. (Venice, CA) — Tradition 12 – Clancy

About This Speaker Tape

The speaker reflects on the deep dive into the Steps and Traditions, noting how some people try to make them needlessly complex. He recounts a vivid memory from the 1970 Miami B. Convention, where Bill Wilson, despite being gravely ill, appeared to speak, a moment he attributes to the enduring human spirit.

He argues that the Traditions, particularly the 12th, exist to protect the fellowship from the narcissism and self-aggrandizement of the individual. Ultimately, he posits that true recovery isn't about intellectual knowledge—which is easy to gain—but about the ongoing, daily practice of humility and service, keeping the 'little shred of magic' alive.

Topics

Timestamps

• 0:00 Opening remarks on the weekend's study of Steps and Traditions, noting Richard's work on traditions.
• 0:56 Discussion of the 12th Tradition, which the speaker suggests is not complex and should be kept simple.
• 2:02 Recounting the 1970 Miami Beach Convention, detailing Bill Wilson's dramatic, near-death appearance.
• 4:16 Analyzing the 11th and 12th Traditions, noting the shift from protecting the fellowship to protecting the individual from the individual.
• 6:07 The speaker's personal account of attending a convention and feeling the 'golden moment' when Bill Wilson spoke.
• 10:11 The speaker contrasts AA's focus on changing actions first, versus modern therapies that focus on changing thinking.
• 11:24 A practical guide for attendees: 1. Shut up, 2. Listen, 3. Remember, 4. Practice, and 5. Teach it to somebody else.
• 14:05 Concluding with the reading of the long form of the Twelve Traditions, emphasizing the need to maintain spiritual contemplation.