Step 12 and the 12-Point List for Sponsors – Sandy S.

About This Speaker Tape

Sponsorship Workshop - 1984

Sandy S. lays out a pragmatic no-nonsense guide for sponsors warning against the ego-trap of 'success ratios' and the danger of playing professional. Sandy S. dismantles the idea of the sponsor as a savior arguing that the only real measure of success is planting a seed not controlling the outcome. The talk shifts into a gritty discussion on 'cliques' within the rooms where Sandy S. and other members challenge the tendency to huddle in comfortable circles while newcomers stand on the sidelines. Through a reading from the Big Book Sandy S. reminds the group that service to others is the only way to survive the low spots and avoid the certain death that comes with isolation.

Topics

Timestamps

• 0:00 Sandy S. begins a numbered list of warnings for sponsors, including not 'overselling' the program.
• 2:15 Discussion on avoiding professional advice; Sandy S. mentions his sponsor's help during a divorce and lawyer Bob C.
• 4:30 Sandy S. discusses the physical withdrawal process and the use of sugar/hard candy for the shakes.
• 6:15 Advice on not preaching or moralizing to the newcomer; the importance of sharing personal experience.
• 8:00 Laughter: Sandy S. tells a story about a newcomer who called incessantly while he was away.
• 10:15 Sandy S. dismantles the 'Success Barrier Syndrome' and the role of the ego in sponsorship.
• 13:00 Discussion begins on 'cliques' in the rooms; Lee M. reads a passage about the 'faithful members' who form the clique.
• 16:30 Sandy S. and others discuss the need to reach out to newcomers and avoid the 'ice cream and cake' social circles.
• 18:45 John R. shares his approach to giving out business cards to newcomers who aren't ready for a sponsor.
• 20:00 Sandy S. closes with a reading from the Big Book, page 14, on the necessity of working with others to survive.