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

  • Heard in a Meeting

    “First it was magic, then it was misery”

    Heard in a Meeting
  • What Changed, What Didn’t

    Written by, Aurelie E. There are momentsthat split time in two—before thisand everything after. Loss that knocks the wind out of a life.Grief that teaches the bodynew postures of survival.Love that arrives like a hand on your backwhen you didn’t know you were bending.Joy so clean, it feels borrowed.Kindness that saves you quietlyand never asks to…

    What Changed, What Didn’t
  • Heard in an MA Meeting

    “By respecting myself, my world changes for the better.” Published in A New Leaf – June 2026

    Heard in an MA Meeting
  • 18 Months Mile-Stone

    Created by, Chris P. Published By A New Leaf – March 2026

    18 Months Mile-Stone
  • An MA Miracle

    Written by, Stefania M. *Trigger Warning: Sexual Abuse, Child Abuse and Threats Against Life* Hi everyone, my name is Stefania, and I am a marijuana addict. Generation X here and grew up as a hard core Italian. A generation of new breakthroughs, independence and resilience. The generation of “Lachie” kids. Also a beautiful culture, one…

    An MA Miracle
  • Celebrating 30 Days

    Written by, Manuel G Yesterday I reached 30 days without using, and today I want to celebrate that milestone. But this time, I understand something very different: this is not the result of my willpower, my discipline, or my ability to rationalize my way out of addiction. This time I understand that I am here…

    Celebrating 30 Days