Concept 4: The right of participation ensures equality
of opportunity for all in the decision-making process. – Spiritual Principle: Equality.
Concepts. I have heard so many refer to the 12 Concepts as in being just for the business of OA. I kind of cringe when I hear that. A part on me is saddened too; for a person who says that, is missing out on so much.
The Concepts have really shown me how important they are to practice in whatever group, no matter how big or small that I may be a part of. You see, even the relationships within my family unit are a microcosm of a “business”. When bills are paid, decisions to be made that affect the whole, even if there are only two of us, I can practice all the Concepts of service. I do service for my family. So, what is service? The dictionary says, “the action of helping or doing work for someone.” I believe there is no separation of types of service. Service is service no matter how you slice it.
In Concept 4, it speaks of Equality. It sure keeps things on an even keel when decisions are to be made within my family, and we can talk through any decision. We can discuss possibilities, we listen, we compromise, and together we make a decision that will work for both of us. We all have a right of participation in any decision making…. this ensures equality for everyone in my family. I know I like to feel I have an equal part in any decisions that affect my life. My voice matters, so does my son’s. I know that equality begins with listening and hearing what another says. It is amazing the outcome, when this Concept is practised. The spiritual principle comes alive.
– Submitted by Melanie B
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