The Importance of the Third Legacy in Alcoholics Anonymous
When I first joined Alcoholics Anonymous, my focus was on not drinking, staying sober, working with my sponsor, and crawling my way through the steps. These steps were my lifeline, guiding me through the process of overcoming my dis-ease. As I progressed, I began to understand the significance of the Twelve Traditions of Unity, which helped me build connections and foster a sense of community; I had found my tribe.
However, it wasn’t until I delved into the Third Legacy of Service that I truly grasped the full scope of AA’s mission. The Third Legacy represents the general services that support AA’s operations and outreach efforts. These services include the Alcoholic Foundation, the AA Book, the AA Grapevine, and the AA General Office. These components are essential for reaching out to individuals suffering from alcoholism and providing them with the support they need.
Service in AA is defined as any action that helps to carry the message of recovery to those who need it. This can range from the Twelfth Step itself to simple acts like making a phone call or sharing a cup of coffee with a fellow AA member. The sum total of these services forms the Third Legacy, which is vital for AA’s growth and survival.
The Third Legacy ensures that AA remains organized and effective in its mission. It involves the establishment of meeting places, hospital cooperation, intergroup offices, and the creation of pamphlets, books, and other publicity materials. These services require committees, delegates, trustees, and conferences, all of which are supported by voluntary contributions from within our Fellowship.
Without the Third Legacy, AA would face complications and confusion, hindering its ability to reach those in need. The General Service Office, AA World Services, Inc., the AA Grapevine, Inc., and the General Service Board of Alcoholics Anonymous are all critical components that enable AA to function as a whole. These services are not only practical but are also based firmly upon spiritual principles, ensuring that AA’s mission is carried out with integrity and dedication.
The Third Legacy of Service is indispensable to Alcoholics Anonymous. It provides the structure and support necessary for the organization to carry its message of recovery to individuals worldwide. By embracing and actively participating in the Third Legacy, members of AA can ensure that the Fellowship continues to thrive and grow, offering hope and healing to future generations.
Yours in service
Shu D. | Panel 75 Area 72 Webservant
