When having conversations about controversial, sensitive and/or highly contested issues, an informed group conscience is often best reached by working slowly, rather than rushing to reach a hasty decision, and when the meeting avoids reaching a final decision until all opinions have been heard and a clear sense of the meeting’s collective opinion emerges. The result rests on more than a “yes” or “no” count—precisely because it is the spiritual expression of the group conscience.
Put another way, a group conscience is more than just a yes or no vote. It involves willingness, an open-mind, and patience to ensure that all viewpoints in the room are heard – especially minority views. We are always cautioned by MA traditions to place principles before personalities to ensure that the issues at hand remain the focus, and that the minority viewpoint can be heard and considered when seeking a group conscience – not just the loudest voice in the room.
We ask that you remember Tradition Five, “each group has but one primary purpose, to carry its message to the marijuana addict who still suffers.” The newcomer is often the most important person in the room.