Concept 12

🛠️ Concept 12 – Spirit Over Structure

“The Conference shall observe the spirit of AAA tradition, taking care that it never becomes the seat of perilous wealth or power…”

This Concept is a sacred safeguard. It wraps the entire service structure in humility, reminding us that no matter how organized we become, we must never lose our spiritual center. It outlines six spiritual warranties—principles that protect the fellowship from ego, excess, and exclusion:

1. No perilous wealth or power We stay grounded in simplicity, never letting money or influence distort our purpose.

2. Prudent financial principles We maintain enough to serve, with reserves for stability—but never for control.

3. No unqualified authority No one stands above another. Leadership is shared, not imposed.

4. Substantial unanimity We seek unity through discussion and near-universal agreement—not rushed decisions.

5. No personal punishment or public controversy We don’t shame, blame, or stir division. We act with grace.

6. No acts of government We serve, not rule. We remain democratic in thought and action.

This final Concept is the soul’s reminder: we are not an institution—we are a fellowship. And our strength lies not in structure, but in spirit.