Our group experience suggests that the unity of the Nar-Anon Family Groups depends on our adherence to the twelve traditions.

In most organizations there are rules and regulations to keep order. In Nar-Anon we have no rules, but rather a set of spiritual principles that guide us in a way no rules or regulations can. It requires dedication without reserve or self-will. These principles are effective because members are willing to be devoted to the practice and application of our spiritual tools.

Some members think the traditions cannot be applied until completing the steps, or that they are only for service members. Other members believe they are more important for recovering addicts. Many an argument, disagreement, or debate in our rooms, service boards, and communities can be resolved by applying the principles in these traditions. Beyond the rooms of Nar-Anon, we learn to incorporate the traditions in our personal lives. We eventually learn to apply these principles with others who have no knowledge of twelve step programs. The steps are for personal recovery, and the traditions are for our relationships with others, including our groups.

The traditions were written to fulfill a need for a set of spiritual principles that allow people from all social, religious, economic, and political backgrounds to come together for one purpose, to recover from the effects of someone else’s addiction. We soon learn to carry this message to others and to practice these principles in all our affairs. The program allows everyone to be on an even playing field as equals. By coming together, we achieve so much with no one person being right or wrong.