A group ought to choose its G.S.R. with as much care as it does in choosing its treasurer. Both are custodians of the group's welfare. The G.S. R. should have knowledge of the A. A. service structure, the traditions and the program.

The G. S. R. is elected for a two-year term, during which they should hold no other office. Two or three years of sobriety are usually required. Ability, experience and willingness to serve are essential. The election of the G.S.R. (and Alternate G.S.R.) usually takes place just before the election of the Area Conference Delegate.

If the group does not understand its place in A. A. or the service structure, the  G.S.R. needs to inform and guide the group.

The attitude of the group determines how well its G.S.R. can function. Many group members actively interfere with their own G.S.R's efforts to involve the group in legitimate A.A. business and the future of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Their reason is usually an objection to "all that politics, " or 'We don't need all that stuff, "and finally they will say, "Dr. Bob said 'keep it simple'." Somehow the false A. A. "slogan" of "Keep It Simple" has become an all-purpose cop-out and an effective argument against love and service.

Bill W. was concerned about the exhortation to "keep it simple." In a Grapevine article (July 1970) Bill says:

"A return to the kitchen table era would bring no hoped for simplicity. It could mean wholesale irresponsibility, disharmony and ineffectiveness”. Lets picture this:

No definite guiding principles.

• No  literature.

• No  meeting balls.

• No  group fund.

• No  planned sponsorship.

• No  stable leadership.

• No  clear relations with hospitals. • No  sound public relations.

• No  local services.

• No world services.

Returning to that early-time brand of simplicity would be as absurd as selling the steering wheel, the gas tank, and the tires off our family car.  The car would be simplified all right -no more gas and repair bills, either! But our car wouldn't go anyplace.  The family life would hardly be simplified, it would instantly become confused and complicated."