THE HAZARDS OF PUBLICITY

The hazards of publicity are a subtle but serious trap for the recovering alcoholic. Our Big Book reminds us that "we are not saints" (page 60) — we are still prone to ego inflation. Publicity can feed that old sense of importance, leading us right back to self-centeredness. Tradition 11 is crystal clear: "Our public relations policy is based on attraction rather than promotion; we need always maintain personal anonymity at the level of press, radio, and films" (page 564). This isn't about hiding — it's about protecting the message. When we seek the spotlight, we risk making AA about us, not about the solution. The program works not because of any one person, but because of the Twelve Steps. Staying anonymous keeps our focus on principles, not personalities. It also protects the newcomer, who might be scared off by seeing a member treated like a celebrity. By avoiding public acclaim, we keep our recovery humble and our primary purpose clear: to carry the message to the still-suffering alcoholic.