Endigar 592 ~ Live and Let Live
From the Daily Reflections of October 30;
Never since it began has Alcoholics Anonymous been divided by a major controversial issue. Nor has our Fellowship ever publicly taken sides on any question in an embattled world. This, however, has been no earned virtue. It could almost be said that we were born with it. . . . “So long as we don’t argue these matters privately, it’s a cinch we never shall publicly.” (Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, page 176)
Do I remember that I have a right to my opinion but that others don’t have to share it? That’s the spirit of “Live and Let Live.” The Serenity Prayer reminds me, with God’s help, to “Accept the things I cannot change.” Am I still trying to change others? When it comes to “Courage to change the things I can,” do I remember that my opinions are mine, and yours are yours? Am I still afraid to be me? When it comes to “Wisdom to know the difference,” do I remember that my opinions come from my experience? If I have a know-it-all attitude, aren’t I being deliberately controversial?
END OF QUOTE
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Tradition Ten: Alcoholics Anonymous has no opinion on outside issues; hence the A.A. name ought never be drawn into public controversy.
This concept is AA’s own little piece of the Tao. I quote the following from an article by Michael Vlach:
Daoism (or Taoism) is a Chinese philosophical system that began around the 6th century B.C with the life and teachings of the founder of Daoism—Laozi (or Lao Tzu). Laozi allegedly wrote the Tao Te Ching (“The Way and Its Power”) which explains basic Daoist beliefs.
According to Daoism the absolute concept in the universe is Dao. The Dao is a mysterious, cosmic power that is present in all experiences. It is an impersonal and invisible way that the universe follows. Indescribable in nature, the Dao is a natural force that makes the universe the way it is.
With Daoism, the universe is neither good nor evil—it is beyond good and evil. The universe just is. The secret to living a good and harmonious life is through inactivity. One of the key concepts of Daoism is wuwei which is the accomplishing of tasks without assertion or aggression. According to Daoism, active attempts to conquer nature or improve society are futile and only make things worse. Thus, Daoism is often against education, rituals, and participation in social and political institutions. These things are artificial structures that draw people away from the peace and harmony that come through inaction. Trouble and suffering come when people are too active.
According to Daoism the best life is the simple life of inactivity and attention to the basic needs of yourself and your family. A motto of Daoism could be “Live and let live.” By doing nothing, humans can exist in harmony with nature. A long life is often viewed as the reward for those who live in harmony with the Dao.
Daily Reprieve 
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