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You are at a regional narcotics anonymous convention and decide to check out the merchandise room. You notice that at one of the tables there is an array of ‘narcotics anonymous jewelry’, some of which has the NA symbol on crosses. Do you think this is in disharmony with any of our traditions? If so, which one and why?
Tradition six: An NA group ought never endorse, finance, or lend the NA name to any related facility or outside enterprise, lest problems of money, property, or prestige divert us from our primary purpose. Our NA literature talks about the difference between direct endorsements and implied endorsements. Even though it is not specifically stated, when we place our symbol with the symbol of other organizations a connection between the two organizations is implied. By establishing boundaries, the Sixth Tradition helps our groups avoid some of the problems that commonly arise between organizations. If we endorse an organization that later runs into trouble, our reputation will be damaged along with theirs. If we boost an outside enterprise that some find obnoxious, addicts seeking recovery may be discouraged from coming to our meetings. If we voice support for another organization, the public, the addict who still suffers, even our own members might confuse that organization’s purpose with ours.