'Tradition Seven—Every A.A. group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions.'
It has been important in my recovery to ensure:
(i) I am fully self-supporting through my own contributions, financially, and that I do not depend on others. There have been times where I have needed help, but the ideal has been to be a net contributor to society rather than a net taker. Not everyone is able to achieve this, I acknowledge, for a host of reasons, but contribution need not always be financial; I know people who are supported financially but give their entire lives to help others. That's also in the true spirit of Tradition Seven.
(ii) I am honest financially, with regard to accessing benefits and assistance and with regard to paying tax.
It has been important in my recovery to ensure:
(i) I am fully self-supporting through my own contributions, financially, and that I do not depend on others. There have been times where I have needed help, but the ideal has been to be a net contributor to society rather than a net taker. Not everyone is able to achieve this, I acknowledge, for a host of reasons, but contribution need not always be financial; I know people who are supported financially but give their entire lives to help others. That's also in the true spirit of Tradition Seven.
(ii) I am honest financially, with regard to accessing benefits and assistance and with regard to paying tax.