Let’s look at the positive side: First, the get-together helped get the SA booklet into being; and it has so far proven to be much-needed and helpful to many. Somehow, getting it together and bound, even in the form that it is, puts SA into a position it didn’t have before. It seems to be kind of a catalyst, making new things happen. This aspect of it is slowly becoming apparent from the increasing demand for it and comments from members new and old.

Secondly, various groups around the country and Canada are sharing the responsibility of handling leads from inquirers. This hasn’t worked out 100% (many inquirers have had to write their third letter wondering why they haven’t been contacted) but it is working out; we do have some groups now that are eager to take the load for their areas and beyond.

The December 1983 get-together has helped us see that we are still in the process of being born. SA, though “on the books” since 1979, is still in its infancy; we have not yet “come of age” in the sense that AA “came of age” in 1955. Our sobriety is still shaky and being tested. We’re not ready for instant full-blown organization; we’re still learning in many areas; we’re not out of the woods yet.

The December 1983 get-together was apparently an important learning experience and we have learned much from it, both what to do and what not to do.