An attitude of gratitude is instrumental in maintaining a program of addiction recovery. Even when life is challenging, there is something you can find to be grateful for today. 2020 likely presented new challenges in your life, but your sobriety helped you overcome your difficulties. Your recovery is always something to be thankful for because it enables you to surmount any obstacle that arises.
COVID-19 has made 2020 the most exacting year in living history. Millions of people have tested positive for the potentially fatal virus, and more than 300,000 Americans have died. Public health experts warn that we are entering the worst phase of the pandemic. Cold weather and the prospect of engaging with one another in person during the coming holidays complicate matters.
It’s essential that you follow public health guidelines to protect both your health and your recovery. Contracting the virus could jeopardize both your recovery and your health. Becoming sick would undoubtedly cause an unprecedented amount of stress that could result in a relapse. Please do everything in your power to prevent contraction.
Most of us have had to isolate ourselves from one another, which in turn has made it more challenging to protect one’s recovery. Working a program in isolation had never been a reality since the concept of 12 Step recovery originated. Fortunately, the Fellowship has found a way to persevere thanks to video and teleconferencing. You have probably relied on virtual 12 Step meetings in recent months.
We understand that it’s hard to work a program from afar, but it’s necessary during the pandemic. Please keep doing everything in your power to remain positive and practice an attitude of gratitude.
Being Thankful in Recovery Every Day
Upon arising each day, stick to your routine as best you can despite the public health restrictions. Take time to think of things you are grateful for, especially when you are having a hard day. The fact that you are not alone should provide comfort. We are all in this together.
Unlike most Americans, people in recovery have a fellowship of men and women to turn to for support. Most people cannot say that they can pick up the phone or open their computer and instantly be connected with like-minded individuals working toward a common goal.
It’s incredibly beneficial to let people know how grateful you are to have them in your life. Expressing gratefulness makes you more positive and brightens the day of others. It’s a way to stay connected and utilize the energy of the fellowship.
Every day that you get through without drinking or using powers your resolve to get through the next day. You know what is required of you to stay the course. You know that you can do it provided you stick to your program and always put your recovery first.
Whenever you have difficulty thinking of things to be grateful for, remember your tools like prayer and meditation. They can open your mind to the little things that might otherwise go unnoticed.
You can also turn to your sponsor or another friend in the program to learn how they maintain an attitude of gratitude. They might point out something in your life that you’re failing to notice. Thankfully, you’re not alone, and the Fellowship is always a phone call away.
“We cannot teach people anything; we can only help them discover it within themselves.” —Galileo Galilei
California Addiction Recovery Center
At Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat, we can help you take the first step toward a life in recovery. Our team of highly trained professionals can help you break the cycle of addiction and learn how to live a fulfilling and productive life. Please contact our admissions team to learn more about our programs and services. You can reach us at any time at 866-273-0868.