April 2025

Highlights from the April 2025 Issue:

This issue features a reflection on Tradition Four by Joe F., focusing on group autonomy and the right of each A.A. group to determine its own practices so long as its primary purpose remains carrying the message. The article contrasts the spiritual principle of autonomy with the practical challenges of applying it in business meetings, especially when personal fear or hesitation prevents members from speaking up. Examples of group differences — such as readings, closing prayers, or format choices — are used to illustrate how variety across groups is part of unity rather than a threat to it. The piece also addresses anonymity as the safeguard for group conscience and how unity is maintained when members respect the authority of the group rather than individual preference.