Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Google+ Share on Reddit Share on Pinterest Share on Linkedin Share on Tumblr Tradition Twelve: Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all these Traditions, ever reminding us to place principles before personalities. If it’s not happening already, it’s just a matter of time in these rooms before you experience a relationship or acquaintance you do not like. It’s natural; we’re all human and none of us are perfect. However, I challenge your character on this point: when you do find that person you’re not too fond of, pray to your HP for the ability to grow within that particular relationship. Ask your spiritual source to show you how to appreciate the ethics and differences of that particular person (or, for some of us, group of people). It may be that only opposites are repellent to your personality. Or you may find that you and the disliked entity are very much alike—I know when I see a particular someone whose character defects agree with my own, that person and I often clash. Does this happen because we know why those particular people are wrong? We know it well because we too are just as wrong, but the reflection of the mirror of reality shines on them. My own heart can be so ugly that I actually might find myself people-watching to criticize or critique strangers whose stories I don’t understand. I think, “Look at that fat couple” or “That person’s hygiene is bad” or “That person’s fashion sense is tacky.” Our Twelfth Tradition dances all over the character defects of being opinionated or judgmental. It tells us not to even enter that line of thinking. It disciplines us, so we can quickly pass the obstacles that prevent us from growing toward success. It helps us focus on the concepts that will bring us to our goals. It was already decided, long before I entered the scene, that my human defects will not stop the progress of my abstinence. Thanks be to God. — Anthony B
