“… provided, however, the alcoholic continues to demonstrate that he can be sober, considerate, and helpful, regardless of what anyone says or does.” (Page 99, Big Book)
In other words, I don’t generally need to speak up, let others know what I think or want, or learn to say ‘no’. These are the regrettable exception not the rule. The system is one of flexibility, cooperativeness, and consideration of others.