November 12
Passing the Keys
A service term ends on the calendar before it ends in our feelings. The keys are ready to hand over, but the room still feels like ours. We remember the evenings we arrived early, the problems we solved, the people who began to depend on us. There can be real affection in that reluctance. We gave something of ourselves, and the work became part of a life we value.
Rotation asks us to make room while we still care. If we wait until we feel nothing about leaving, we may never leave. The incoming person deserves more than our reluctant permission; they deserve a fair beginning. We can share what will help them and let our sadness have another place to go, perhaps in prayer or a conversation with a friend. The service was worth doing even though our turn has an ending. Caring can continue after possession loosens.
What feeling about leaving could I acknowledge without making my successor carry it?
The keys can change hands while affection remains.
For the A.A. nerds: The A.A. Service Manual, Appendix E, “The Principle of Rotation.”