Trusting each other doesn't mean we abdicate responsibility—we put in place the necessary methods to protect ourselves and our trusted servants from the kinds of mistakes we, as addicts, are prone to make.
Guidelines, Twelfth Tradition, “In Services”
" NA services taught me how to first be a responsible, productive member of this society," shared one member. “Doing service has given me skills and knowledge that help me navigate the world outside of SA. I consider these as the "hidden curriculum" in the NA services. From this point of view, we could consider accountability as one of the subjects we study.
Lessons in responsibility begin at our first work group meetings and continue as we serve in various positions. One of the first things we learn is that the order of tasks is different in NA. We've had previous experience with the kind of responsibility that comes after we've been through the sea. At NA, we often focus on setting each other up for success. To avoid mistakes, we try to define tasks and clarify expectations in advance, and then strive for transparency, communication and support as we follow through. Having safeguards in place, especially when money or selfishness may be involved, can help protect our trusted servants and the NA.
We check our worst impulses in advance and limit the margin for error in our decisions. The cashier who asks another member to confirm the count of the Seventh Delivery avoids temptation. The subcommittee chair who keeps the staff informed and regularly seeks direction is less likely to become disengaged or mismanaged.
This type of proactive accountability has applications in our personal lives as well. Medication management after surgery involves honest communication among many members of an NA team—transparency about pill counts protects everyone involved. We can see the importance of accountability even in one member's strategy for not falling into bed on a first date: "I meet them for coffee while the sun is still up and I'm wearing my shittiest underwear." Little reminders can help us live up to the standards we set for ourselves.
I will seek guides—in life and in ministry—that will hold me accountable to myself and others.
