Guidance for Gratitude in Recovery from Alcohol Addiction

Gratitude is a powerful tool in the journey of recovery from alcohol addiction. While actions speak louder than words, the act of truly being thankful for the gifts and challenges that come your way can profoundly impact your wellbeing. Here are some practices and suggestions for cultivating gratitude in your recovery journey.

Volunteering and Service

Engaging in volunteer work can be an excellent way to foster gratitude. Consider volunteering at a local charity-sponsored detox center, such as Alateen or other peer support groups for young people. Supporting someone experiencing delirium tremens (DTs) can be crucial. Volunteering at a homeless shelter or attending meetings at a treatment center to interact with new arrivals can also have a profound impact. Engaging in these activities can help you to connect with others and find meaning in your recovery journey.

Embracing Humility and Non-Forcing

Striving to be a 'perfect' member in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or recovery can be exhausting and unattainable. The key is to stay sober and take care of your physical, emotional, and mental health. Gratitude is an internal experience that cannot be forced. Pushing yourself to be grateful is counterproductive. Instead, allow gratitude to emerge in its own time.

Practicing Deed-Based Gratitude

Gratitude should not be about superficial gestures. It is about the positive actions you take every day and the ways in which you improve your life. Acknowledge the progress you've made away from alcohol and the steps you're taking to become financially responsible and independent. These are the real manifestations of gratitude.

Writing a Gratitude List

Take some time to sit down with your Higher Power and write a gratitude list. Date each entry and be specific about the things you appreciate. The more you explore and list what you are grateful for, the more gratitude you will find. Aim to do this at least once a week, considering both the positive and negative aspects of your life experiences. This daily practice can help you maintain a grateful mindset and provide contentment in the present moment.

Reminders: Gratitude brings contentment and thanksgiving. Without it, you may become a dry drunk, dwelling on past hurts and blaming fate or circumstances for your struggles. Embrace the journey, remain humble, and take one day at a time. In gratitude, you don't take life for granted, nor do you waste your recovery opportunities. You strive to see and experience life with sober eyes, a clear mind, and an open heart, rather than in the blurred and clouded state of addiction.