Tradition 11 and Putting Principles Before Personalities – Anonymous

About This Speaker Tape

The session opens with a cautionary tale about the dangers of the 'Bernie S.' ego—the desire to be known by everyone and the allure of the spotlight. The speaker dismantles the 11th Tradition arguing that anonymity isn't just about hiding names but about protecting the program from the volatility of personalities. The discussion shifts to the gritty reality of anonymity breaks: the danger of AA logos bleeding through thin stationery the risk of professional ruin in conservative states and the trauma of a child in Alateen being beaten after their anonymity was blown.

Through a series of shared experiences the group maps out the tension between the 'attraction' needed to grow the fellowship and the 'security' required to keep the most vulnerable members safe from judgment and violence.

Topics

Timestamps

• 0:00 The speaker opens with a joke about Bernie S. and the nature of the ego.
• 4:15 Discussion on the 11th Tradition and the risks of breaking anonymity in press, radio, and film.
• 8:30 The speaker explains how anonymity makes the 'skid row bum' and the movie star equals.
• 12:10 Pete W. shares a story about correcting a treatment center's public service announcement to preserve anonymity.
• 17:45 Dudley shares his experience declining a TV appearance to protect his anonymity.
• 22:10 Carol discusses the 'sad piece of mail' and the danger of AA logos bleeding through stationery.
• 26:40 Gene reflects on his lack of anonymity in his small hometown of Medford.
• 32:15 Alice G. describes her early days as a 'closet drinker' and the fear that kept her in the corner.
• 38:20 Angie T. discusses how anonymity protects careers in states where prejudice against alcoholics is higher.
• 43:10 Jack C. breaks down the 'three-pronged' nature of anonymity and the 'infernal ego'.
• 48:50 Monika shares a story about a police officer who used his own recovery to help her avoid a ticket.
• 54:10 Scott B. concludes the session by linking anonymity to the development of trust.