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

    “Don’t make a permanent decision based on a temporary feeling!” Published in A New Leaf – August 2026

    Heard in a Meeting
  • Cannabis Induced Psychosis (CIP)

    Written by, Connor B. I had my first psychotic episode at the age of 21 while away at college. While taking a bath, I was suddenly afraid I was going to drown so I called campus authorities and ran in the cold in only my pajamas to make it to the security booth. I hadn’t…

    Cannabis Induced Psychosis (CIP)
  • Surrender & Serenity

    Written by, Bella Even as a child I was inclined to argue and be stubborn. My skills of rationalizing and manipulation were part of my character makeup. I was also ready to start a game or sing-along at any given moment. But I was also shy, moody, and given to victim fantasies. I was the…

    Surrender & Serenity
  • Poem 4

    Written by, Jessyka C. It was the bee That inspired me To quit the green Been smoking so long I’m no longer ganga princess, I’m ganga queen Now I’m realising it’s only bringing me down Spending all my money on it like a clown I need to stop, give it a rest I can be better…

    Poem 4
  • I LIVE TO SERVE! (fast ska/punk)

    Composed by, John J Chord: AYou may be sinnin’But I’m in it to win it!I got all the tricks, shit!I’m the one who can fix it!When I come for your curveYou better not swerve!Man have I hit a nerve!Baby I LIVE TO SERVE! YO! Chord: BmWe’re only as sick as our secrets, manI’m more than…

    I LIVE TO SERVE! (fast ska/punk)
  • Amends to Self

    Written by, Anonymous My dear self, I love you, and I’m so proud of you. I haven’t always made it easy for you, but you’ve become such an incredible woman, and I’m certain you will continue to thrive in the future. I’m writing this letter as an amends for all I have done and failed…

    Amends to Self