August 28
Waiting for Everybody
Nobody has objected to the arrangements, but we keep asking for reassurance. Should we make that call? Is everyone absolutely comfortable? Another week passes while a simple responsibility waits. We would like to think this is humility. Perhaps we are afraid that making a decision will give someone a reason to be displeased with us.
The discussion of leadership in Concept Nine does not ask trusted servants to become people who merely wait for instructions. Within an understood responsibility, judgment has work to do. Consultation matters, especially when others will be affected or important facts are missing. Endless consultation can also leave everybody carrying the cost of our reluctance. We may have to act without the comfort of unanimous approval, explain our reasons plainly, and remain willing to learn. Being accountable includes having something to give an account of.
Where am I calling delay humility because I am afraid to exercise judgment?
An ordinary decision need not wait for perfect confidence.
For the A.A. nerds: Twelve Concepts for World Service, Concept IX, pp. C-29–C-30.