Al-Anon’s strength lies in the many way members help care for and carry our message. The next two articles introduce the independent review process that ensures translated Conference Approved Literature (CAL) is accurate, spiritually grounded, and legally protected. The first article outlines how the process works, and the second shares the service experience, strength, and hope of an independent reviewer. Together, they provide insight into how trusted servants care for Al-Anon’s words, meaning, and message worldwide.
Translating Conference Approved Literature, Part 1: Concept Four in Action
Before joining the World Service Office (WSO) as a Paralegal, I had not considered how Conference Approved Literature (CAL) is translated into languages other than Spanish and French. Today, I appreciate the independent review process, which ensures that CAL translations are both faithful to the original English text and effective in conveying the program’s spiritual message.
When the Board of Trustees of Al-Anon grants permission to an international structure (an organized group responsible for Al-Anon activities in a specific country or region) to translate CAL into a language for the first time, the structure suggests several individuals to the WSO who could potentially serve as independent reviewers once the translation is completed. These individuals are members of the program, are bilingual in English and the target language, and were not involved in the original CAL translation.
With knowledge and objectivity, and with the WSO acting as intermediary, the independent reviewer evaluates translations submitted by the structure. Their review might highlight words or phrases that are not translated exactly or that inadvertently distort the meaning. Communicating the program’s concepts or spiritual principles in another language can be challenging. For example, which word best conveys the emotional element of “detachment,” rather than just a physical idea? Other challenges can be specifically grammatical: in several languages, “God” is a masculine noun while “Higher Power” is feminine. An independent reviewer is charged with offering suggestions for these and other linguistic and conceptual questions that involve core principles of the program.
Upon receipt of the independent reviewer’s comments, the WSO forwards them to the structure. The structure then discusses internally whether to incorporate the suggestions. The WSO facilitates this process by providing legal and traditional guidance to both the independent reviewer and the structure as may be necessary. Concept Four guides us all: we work harmoniously and respectfully, recognizing that we are equals and partners in a spiritual endeavor.
This thorough and careful process often produces a more accurate translation with deeper and more heartfelt meaning. In addition, our CAL is legally protected when we confirm translations, and the message of help and hope is protected from possible dilution or misunderstanding. Throughout the process, members are asked to act with responsibility and acceptance. They reach out to others and their Higher Power for help. They talk to each other and reason things out, trusting the overall process.
Our CAL brings the worldwide fellowship together. The independent review process shows how individual members can work for the good of Al-Anon as a whole.
By Olivia S-G., Paralegal
Translating Conference Approved Literature, Part 2: Cooperation Through Working Partnership
Concept Eleven speaks to the abundance of talent among Al-Anon members that can be utilized to benefit the fellowship as a whole. How beautiful is that—each of us contributing our individual gifts for a greater purpose.
As an independent reviewer, I work with people who are very passionate about Al-Anon. That passion carries into the work of translation and inspires a deeper search for meaning and understanding of our literature and our message, so that we can unite in our primary purpose—not only in words, but in spirit.
There are challenges. For example, in a literal translation, the word cornerstone becomes “a stone uniting two masonry walls” rather than foundation, which is the meaning intended by Al-Anon. These moments call for care, discussion, and discernment.
Through participating in this process, I am learning to distinguish my role and my responsibility: to do my part to the best of my ability and then let go of the outcome. I am learning about the links of service, delegation, and the right of decision-making. I am learning how to communicate my truth without an agenda or expectations.
A hidden benefit of this process has been learning, really, with my heart, that I don’t have to do anything alone. I don’t have to carry the weight or the pressure of the whole process—only my part. And even in my part, I am supported. I can check with fellow Al-Anon members when questions arise. I can check with my Higher Power and pray. I am learning how to cooperate with others and with my Higher Power without feeling overwhelmed.
I continue to be amazed by the depth and beauty of our program by learning to focus on myself through the Steps, to help others through the Traditions, and to serve one another through the Concepts of Service.
I am very grateful to be a part of carrying the message of hope to a small country on the other side of the world. We truly are a worldwide fellowship.
Thank you, Al-Anon!
By Anonymous
“Inside Al-Anon Family Groups” presents news, policy, and commentary from volunteers, staff and readers sharing experience through service. Please feel free to reprint these articles on your service structure website or newsletter, along with this credit line: Reprinted with permission of Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc., Virginia Beach, VA.