One of S-Anon’s spiritual principles is that we are all equal, and everyone’s ideas are equally important. This comes from Tradition One, “Our common welfare should come first; personal progress for the greatest number depends upon unity.”
If I single out someone, in any way (referring to their share, labeling their share, etc.) I am putting them above everyone else. In other words, I believe I am not upholding that we are all equal. And, in my appearing to judge someone else – good or bad – I may be creating an atmosphere of fear, especially for the newcomer. “What if no one likes my share?” “Are people here to judge what I share?”
I see our job as creating a welcoming atmosphere, without judgment, where everyone is free to find their voice and practice our equality.
We also use non-personal phrases when referring to others’ shares during the meeting. After the meeting we can have personal interaction stating what we liked, etc. And I would do this out of earshot of others so that I still uphold the principle of unity.
