Our attitude should be loving and accepting towards all drug addicts, regardless of the problems they may be facing.
How and Why It Works, Third Tradition, "Applying Spiritual Principles"
Many of us walk into our first gatherings completely paranoid and haven't showered in weeks or just used the restrooms in the hallway. Or we've erected a 15 meter concrete wall around us with graffiti on it that says "DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT TALKING TO ME". Still others come in timidly with a court order, counting the days until they can start doing the same again, finding and taking drugs. Still others come in with a high-minded, defensive attitude and arrogant attitude of the what-you-tell-me-now style.
The Third Tradition tells us that the only requirement to be a member of NA is a desire to stop using. It urges members to welcome anyone who enters the room. But how do we know that someone else really has the desire to stay clean? How do we measure this desire? We can not.
No drug addict is guaranteed to stay clean, and none of us can predict the future. We all know that perennial newcomer who everyone thought would never make it – until he did. And what about the other case we never expected to happen? That revered veteran, who helped countless newcomers break down their 15-foot walls, who committed to every service, and who was our circle's most beloved speaker—until he relapsed.
It is human nature to judge each other and compare ourselves to determine where we belong. But it is only our own personal recovery that we can truly assess and take responsibility for. And one of the most important yardsticks of our recovery is our willingness to accept others for who they are—not what we think they should be—just as we have been accepted.
Without judgment, I will practice our Third Tradition by accepting and welcoming others, regardless of their appearance, circumstance, or reputation.
