Progress Not Perfection

Written by, Mariska P.

The Fourth MA Conference meant progress and letting go for me. 

Just under two years ago, it was “us” versus “them” and now it is “we”, a true unified entity of marijuana addicts in recovery. My how far we have come. Imagine through all the different opinions and personalities, Marijuana Anonymous maintains its common bond which is our primary purpose to help marijuana addicts who still suffers. The principles in action!

I came to the Conference feeling overwhelmed and even burnt out. I could only think about how much we had to get done. All of a sudden I remembered the infamous slogan “progress, not perfection” which allowed me to let go and focus on doing only that which we could get done.

In addition, this Conference represented the letting go of a three year commitment to MA World Services, which brought up many emotions. I wanted to continue on with public information as that is where my interests lie, yet my recovery comes first. I learned that I can now remain committed to MA and do that service which God puts in my path – namely the newcomers.

I want to thank MA and all of you as I can not express enough how much you all have given me. Keep coming back, Mariska P. (Seattle)

P.S. District 6 did a dynamite job! Thanx

Published in A New Leaf – June 1991

  • Where am I, and why am I here?

    What began as a requirement to get a driver’s license back became a new way of living.

    Where am I, and why am I here?
  • How the Steps Come Alive in Meetings

    How showing up, listening, and sharing in meetings puts all Twelve Steps into practice.

    How the Steps Come Alive in Meetings
  • My Goodbye Letter to Marijuana

    After 37 years, a final goodbye — and a new course toward calmer waters.

    My Goodbye Letter to Marijuana
  • Looking Up

    Written by, Anonymous When I was high I looked up at the stars Each time I pulled in On that little pipe that got clogged up And then I cleaned it with alcohol Boil it in saltwater Boiling cloves cinnamon and nutmeg to try to cover up the smell Dumping the boiling water in the…

    Looking Up
  • Ready?

    Written by, Michael J Ready? The Universe: “Had enough?” Me: “No.” “How ’bout now?” “No!” “Now?” “NO!” “Now?” “Sh*t, sh*t… No, NO, it’s fine! I’m fine.” “?” “Leave me alone!! I said I’m fine.” “Well?” “F*ck, f*ck, f*ck!!!” “?” “One more.” “?” “Damn it. I’m fine, I can do this. I’ll handle it.” … “Where’d…

    Ready?
  • “Pink Cloud”

    Painted By, Jonathan B. Caption: This is an early watercolor painting done around day 30 expressing the excitement of early sobriety, while also acknowledging the reality that living life on life’s terms brings unpredictable weather. Published in A New Leaf – September 2026

    “Pink Cloud”