Growth and Security

In The Twelve Concepts of OA Service under Concept Twelve, it reads: “The spiritual foundation for OA service ensures that . . . b) sufficient operating funds, plus an ample reserve, shall be OA’s prudent financial principle” (p. 13). I see a connection between that and a result of my having worked Step Nine and making financial amends, which is that fear of economic insecurity has left me.

The longer I practice OA’s Spiritual Principles, though, the more I continue to grow in understanding and effectiveness. As wonderful as gaining freedom from economic insecurity has been—and it has been lovely—it is not the end of the abundance available to me when I continue to consciously live a spiritual life. I want it all, which in the area of finances means I want security. Concept Twelve gives me guidance on how through spiritual growth I can obtain financial security. It requires more than the minimum: it calls for an ample reserve.

As I write, I recall I have already started this work. After years of giving $3 per meeting, I recently heard an OA member share that he gives $20 a month to his home meetings regardless of whether he is present for every meeting. The same way we have to continue to pay a mortgage or rent when we go out of town, he recognized he has a responsibility to sustain his meetings financially. I heard his share as an invitation, and I started giving the same level of support, which also increased the amount I give per meeting.

Oh recovery! Fortunately, my experience is that as I give, I receive. By increasing my giving, I can count on receiving more. Writing on this Concept today will help me make prudent choices about my ample reserve as I receive it. I am so grateful I get to practice Spiritual Principles in all of my affairs, even my financial affairs!

Thanks for letting me share.

— Atiya