PRINCIPLES, NOT PERSONALITIES
Recovery Einstein's Big Book perspective on the AA Daily Reflection for December 22.
In recovery, 'principles, not personalities' means we stop judging others by their flaws and start living the Steps ourselves. The Big Book teaches that we must avoid criticizing or condemning, for 'the more we become willing to let others help us, the more we shall see that the very people who seem most hopeless are often the ones who most need our help.' [Page 97] This isn't about ignoring harm—it's about remembering that our primary responsibility is to practice honesty, tolerance, and love. When we focus on principles rather than personalities, we find freedom from resentment, just as the Promises describe: 'We will not regret the past nor wish to shut the door on it.' [Page 83]
Think of someone in your life whose personality you find difficult. How might applying the principle of tolerance change the way you interact with them today?
Start each day with Einstein's Big Book perspective — a quiet moment before the world gets loud.
This is Recovery Einstein's original Big Book perspective on the day's theme — not the official AA Daily Reflections text. For the official reflection, follow the aa.org link above. Page references are to Alcoholics Anonymous (the Big Book), 4th Edition.
Quick answers
What is the AA Daily Reflection for December 22?
The theme for December 22 is “Principles, Not Personalities.” In recovery, 'principles, not personalities' means we stop judging others by their flaws and start living the Steps ourselves.
Think of someone in your life whose personality you find difficult. How might applying the principle of tolerance change the way you interact with them today?
When we focus on principles rather than personalities, we find freedom from resentment, just as the Promises describe: 'We will not regret the past nor wish to shut the door on it.' [Page 83] (Big Book: Chapter 7, pages 96-102)