A.A. has to function, but at the same time it must avoid those
dangers of great wealth, prestige, and entrenched power which necessarily tempt
other societies. Though Tradition Nine at first sight
seems to deal with a purely practical matter, in its actual operation it
discloses a society without organization, animated only by the spirit of service
- a true fellowship.
1981, AAWS, Inc.
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, page
175
Out of Bondage
At Step Three, many of us said to our Maker, as we
understood Him: "God, I offer myself to Thee - to build with me and to do with
me as Thou wilt. Relieve me of the bondage of self, that I may better do Thy
will. Take away my difficulties, that victory over them may bear witness to
those I would help of Thy power, Thy love, and Thy way of life. May I do Thy
will always!" We thought well before taking this Step, making sure we were
ready. Then we could commence to abandon ourselves utterly to Him.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p. 63