LETTER from L. IVAN UNDERWOOD of New York, NY
Ivan is a non-AA Trustee and Chairman of the Literature Committee.
Dear Jack:
I have read with considerable care and given a good deal of thought to Bill's presentation of the Concepts and his recommendations and I cannot help but conclude that while I have every sympathy for his point of view, I nevertheless feel that changes in structure and procedures have been proposed that do not seem to me to be necessary or constructive at this point.
As a non-AA it may seem somewhat presumptuous for me to take issue with one of the founders of the fellowship who has through his spiritual perception and example shown to so many the way to health and well-being. I feel, however, that as a trustee and the opportunities it has given me to talk with AA's at home and abroad, I would be remiss if I did not express my views on the radical changes that have been suggested by Bill in his recommendation.
The crux of the matter seems to me to he largely in the proposed change in the ratio of the Board. The AA's with whom I have talked almost without exception want to maintain the non-AA majority and tins opinion has been expressed to me not only at home, but in a number of the countries where I have visited with the local groups.
1, therefore, would not be in favor of consideration being given to this change at least for another few years and until it can be considered in a less controversial way.
I do believe that thought could well be given to other recommendations Bill has made, the appointment of area trustees and procedures for the selection of new members of the Board on the basis of particular qualifications, but I do think that change should not be made just for the sake of change and that these matters should be very carefully considered in the light of the whole function of world service and the end toward which they are dedicated.
As to succession in leadership, experience has shown that this, it seems to me, cannot be done by designation, particularly in the case of Bill who I am sure we all recognize as irreplaceable. I think, therefore, that this is not a matter of decision but rather one of finding, through experience, from where leadership derives which could well do the whole Board and Staff as represented by the Chairman of the Trustees.
In expressing my views, I wish again to record my great admiration and respect for Bill which inspired my interest in the Fellowship and an earnest desire to be of such help as I can. I hope that these questions may be resolved without heat which I am sure they will.
With best regards,
Cordially yours,
L. Ivan Underwood
February 7, 1962