John F: Pioneering Days of Narcotics Anonymous
The idea of being paid for service was anathema then... Books like that, in order to be effective, need to be written with a single voice.
Ever wondered what it was like to be part of the early days of Narcotics Anonymous? In this episode of myRecoveryCast, hosts Ron H. and Dave F. sit down with John F., a former Trustee from the '80s, to shed light on those formative years. John opens up about his journey to sobriety in the '70s and his pivotal role during the passage of the Basic Text, a cornerstone of NA literature.
He vividly recalls the conference where this crucial text was adopted, sharing his memories and the controversies surrounding the missing passages in its first edition. The conversation also navigates through the leadership transition from Jimmy K to Bob Stone as office manager. John offers his perspective on this significant change and its impact on the organization. He delves into the idea of being paid for service, a contentious issue in NA's early days.
John also discusses the process of writing the steps versus discussing them with a sponsor, emphasizing the importance of each step's verb and its relevance to personal recovery. The episode doesn't shy away from sensitive topics either; John talks candidly about his experiences as a gay man in the priesthood and how NA's language around sexuality has evolved over time. Service contributions are another focal point, with John stressing the importance of having a unified voice in NA literature.
His insights into the necessity for effective books provide a deeper understanding of NA's mission. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the history and evolution of Narcotics Anonymous. Through engaging discussions and John's firsthand experiences, listeners gain a richer appreciation of the challenges and triumphs that have shaped NA. Tune in to hear more about these early milestones and the lasting impact they've had on recovery communities.