View VIDEO on Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=A100094027278120

Follow on TikTok Videos at Tiktok.com/@recoverydays

Remember Mindfulness – close eyes briefly

Anonymity

Anonymity is not a device to stop the world from knowing our dread secrets. It has two main purposes; firstly, to protect and reassure newcomers that their words and actions will be treated completely confidentially. The social stigma surrounding addiction is considerable. Many addicted people feel shame, which stops them from opening up or even seeking help. Secondly, anonymity encourages us to treat our clean and sober status with humility. There is no place for personal glorification or other profit derived from publicising our recovery. Am I grateful for the concept of anonymity that the programme provides?

Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all our traditions, ever reminding us to place principles before personalities. (Tradition Twelve of Alcoholics Anonymous). It is likely that many of us are not anonymous as regards our family, friends and daily contacts. Indeed, there may be positive benefits from that. However, it is important we always remember the Twelve Step fellowships should not be used simply as a means for personal publicity and profit. Our only purpose in breaking anonymity should be in pursuit of greater understanding. Today I give thanks for the wisdom of those who worked to build the Twelve Step fellowships.