October 31
The Unpopular Reservation
Everyone likes the plan, and we can see one serious difficulty. Mentioning it will change the mood. We might be called negative, or reminded how long people have worked on this. If we hold a trusted position, the pressure can be even stronger: surely leadership means encouraging the group, and everybody already seems encouraged.
Encouragement has value, but so does the willingness to say what a hopeful room needs to consider. Concept Nine describes occasions when leadership must take an unpopular stand. That asks more than stubbornness. We owe people sound reasons, a clear account of the stakes, and openness to facts that could change our judgment. We also owe them the respect of speaking before avoidable trouble arrives. Wanting to be liked is understandable. Prayer may help us bear the discomfort of offering a concern without turning that discomfort into hostility toward the people who disagree.
What concern am I withholding to preserve a favorable impression of me?
God, help me say this with care.
For the A.A. nerds: Twelve Concepts for World Service, Concept IX.