Tradition 10 - No Opinion on Outside Issues

Tradition 10: The S-Anon Family Groups have no opinion on outside issues; hence our name ought never be drawn into public controversy.

The 10^th Tradition was the topic at a recent S-Anon Couples in Recovery meeting. The participants had several ideas about applying this Tradition to their relationships. This is not a comprehensive list of all ways that it could be applied, just some of the ideas that were presented. They are listed here in no particular order of importance.

We each have our own opinions on political issues. Sometimes we agree and sometimes we don’t. We accept that the other has the right to his or her own beliefs and we don’t try to convince each other to agree.

We avoid heated controversy. These can easily produce anger and resentment.

We don’t speak ill of each other with friends or in public. Being kind and courteous is a priority.

We don’t interfere in each other’s family business. We refrain from criticizing the others parents, siblings and children.

We keep each other’s confidences. We don’t divulge opinions expressed in private. The partner is free to discuss his or her own opinions.

We don’t ask our partners to make hasty decisions. We give each other time to think about and formulate our own ideas.