June 18
The Vote We Already Have
The votes appear to be there. Most of the group supports our proposal, and a few people are gathering their things. Then someone asks to explain why they disagree. We sigh inwardly. We have the numbers; hearing more sounds like a delay. It is worth noticing how quickly our interest in discussion fades once discussion seems unlikely to benefit our side.
A minority voice offers something a winning vote cannot provide: another look at what the majority may have missed. Concept V protects that opportunity in world service. Its spirit also questions our private eagerness to be finished. The objection may turn out to be mistaken. Hearing it seriously still gives the decision a fuller examination. If it reveals a real problem, we have gained something more useful than an easy victory. We have learned before the consequences had to teach us.
What happens to my curiosity once I believe I have enough support to win?
There is time to hear the concern.
For the A.A. nerds: Twelve Concepts for World Service, Concept V.