January 17
Letting an Idea Be Heard
During a group discussion, somebody offers an idea we dismissed long ago. We know the history, remember the problems, and can explain exactly why it will not work. Before the person finishes, we are ready. Our experience may be valuable. The question is whether we are bringing it into a conversation or using it to end one.
Willingness can include letting an unfamiliar voice complete its thought. Tradition Two gives us reason to remain interested in what may emerge through the group, including people whose judgment we do not yet trust. Listening does not require voting for a bad idea or forgetting what experience taught us. It asks us to allow something to happen before declaring the outcome. We may hear a difference from the old proposal, or understand the need behind it. Either discovery can make our eventual contribution more useful to everyone present.
What am I unwilling to hear because I already know what I think?
They have not finished speaking yet.
For the A.A. nerds: Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, Tradition Two.