Just For Today | June 28 | Group Conscience

“Working with others is only the beginning of service work.”
Basic Text, page 56

The Essence of Service Work

Service work is a fundamental aspect of the recovery journey, extending beyond merely working with others. It calls for a selfless dedication to carrying the message to the still-suffering addict. This dedication must be rooted in humility and a genuine desire to help, rather than seeking personal recognition or power within the fellowship.

Self-Reflection in Service

Effective service work requires us to continually examine our motives. Being highly visible within the fellowship can lead to a “big fish in a little pond” mentality, where our controlling attitude may inadvertently push away newcomers. True service involves balancing our visibility with humility and self-awareness, ensuring that our actions always serve the group’s best interests and not just our own.

Key Points for Self-Reflection

• Motives: Regularly assess your reasons for participating in service work. Are they selfless and aligned with the group’s goals?
• Behavior: Monitor your actions and their impact on others, especially newcomers. Are you encouraging and supportive?
• Humility: Maintain a humble attitude, remembering that service is about the collective good, not individual acclaim.

The Principle of Group Conscience

Group conscience is a cornerstone of service work. It emphasizes that the collective decision-making process is more important than individual beliefs and desires. By contributing our thoughts and beliefs to the development of a group conscience, we foster a sense of unity and shared purpose. Once the group conscience is established, it is crucial to accept and follow its guidance, even if it differs from our personal opinions.

Developing Group Conscience

1. Active Participation: Engage actively in discussions, offering your insights and listening to others.
2. Respectful Dialogue: Respect differing viewpoints, understanding that each has value in shaping the group conscience.
3. Acceptance: Accept the group’s decision once it is made, even if it does not align with your personal preferences.

Unity in Service

Working with others to develop a collective conscience ensures that all voices are heard and valued. This unity is essential for effectively carrying the message to those who still suffer. By remembering that we strive together for a common goal, we can overcome personal differences and focus on the primary purpose of our service efforts.

Benefits of Unity

• Stronger Decisions: Collective input leads to well-rounded and effective decisions.
• Increased Trust: Fosters trust and cooperation within the group.
• Effective Service: Enhances the group’s ability to carry out its mission and support newcomers.

Letting Go of Personal Agendas

It is often tempting to believe we know what is best for the group. However, remembering that the group’s welfare takes precedence over individual desires helps us let go of personal agendas. This mindset shift makes it easier to contribute positively to the group’s efforts and ensures that our actions remain aligned with the primary purpose of helping the still-suffering addict.

Steps to Let Go

• Prioritize Group Goals: Focus on the group’s primary purpose rather than personal preferences.
• Practice Detachment: Detach from the outcome of discussions, trusting in the group’s collective wisdom.
• Support the Decision: Once a decision is made, support it fully and help implement it effectively.

Just for Today

Just for today, commit to participating in the development of group conscience. Recognize that the world will not end if you do not get your way. Focus on the primary purpose of your service efforts and reach out to a newcomer. By embracing these principles, you will contribute to a stronger, more unified fellowship dedicated to carrying the message of recovery.