Clarity and simplicity are the keys to our message…. The Narcotics Anonymous program, by itself, is enough. We promise freedom from active addiction.
The Principles That Guide Us, Tenth Tradition, Introductory Text
The Tenth Tradition is simple enough: Addicts have opinions, but NA does not. Issues such as politics and religion create unnecessary confrontations and conflicts. While civic engagement and participation in our faith communities can certainly help us as individuals become and stay clean, NA is mute on these issues. To maintain an atmosphere of recovery for everyone, we do our best to leave potential distractions at the door.
Regarding this, here is a good example that we have heard several times: "Narcotics Anonymous is a simple program for complicated people." And then there's this gem: “Opinions are like navels. Everyone has one - but that doesn't mean they're useful." While this statement may sound true, it is not an NA "opinion", so let's get straight to the NA message.
Our NA message is clear and simple. Any of us can stop using and stay clean. Our obsession with use will disappear. And we can find a new way to live our lives. Freedom from active addiction is our only promise.
The NA program has enough to keep us busy – no need to make it too complicated. We have Steps, Traditions and Concepts – twelve of each. We have spiritual principles. We have services, literature and our Higher Power. We have a vision to make NA accessible to addicts all over the world. And we have each other. We need each other to stay clean and find freedom from active addiction and the complicated mess that comes with it. Keep it simple.
A disease, a program, a promise.
NA is enough to keep me clean and free. I am grateful for all my human complexities, for the external support I may have, and for the activities and circles in which I engage. But I have to keep my recovery simple. To this I can commit myself for my own betterment – as well as for all the others seeking freedom in this room with me today.
