Barbara F., ESSAY Editor 2006 – 2015

Dear Barbara,

The service structure of SA would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your service to the Fellowship of SA as the editor of ESSAY. We would love to give you a standing ovation for your efforts. Since we know how much that would embarrass you, we will remind you that you can pull out this letter if you ever need to feel appreciated.

During your tenure, you changed the looks of the magazine, enhancing its beauty with many illustrations and works of original art. You tweaked the format to make information flow more smoothly. Although we know that you did not produce the text, we recognize that you were responsible for its clearness, readability, and correctness of grammar and punctuation so that no printed defect would stand between the content and the reader.

Referring back to the content, we know that you labored long and hard to encourage members to submit stories and vignettes from their personal experience with the program of SA, the Twelve Steps and Traditions, and service work for the Fellowship using the Twelve Concepts. Many articles featured effective tips for working the SA Twelve Step program. There were even humor items occasionally.

Above all, you worked to a deadline with as much poise and grace as we’ve ever seen any member muster. ESSAY will miss your sharp eye, deft touch, and self-deprecating humility.

With gratitude,