"As a rule, the average newcomer wanted his family to know immediately
what he was trying to do. He also wanted to tell others who had tried
to help him--his doctor, his minister, and close friends. As he gained
confidence, he felt it right to explain his new way of life to his
employer and business associates. When opportunities to be helpful
came along, he found he could talk easily about AA to almost anyone.
These quiet disclosures helped him to lose his fear of the alcoholic
stigma, and spread the news of AA's existence in his community. Many
a new man and woman came to AA because of such conversations. Though
not in the strict letter of anonymity, such communications were well
within its spirit." (Twelve and Twelve, Tradition Twelve, pg. 185)