Why are many so reluctant to count their blessings? We focus so much on what we don’t have that it stifles our ability to truly appreciate the gifts that illuminate our lives. Gratitude gives us hope, bolsters our physical and emotional health, and lifts the spirit of those around us. Let’s take some time to relish in the blessings to be grateful for.
1. Life
Maybe you’re struggling with an addiction, worried about money, or excited to have a baby soon. No matter what is unfolding in your life right now, you’re alive to experience it. You’ve got a history to learn from and a future to shape. Let the hard times fuel your growth and the happy times delight you. You’re in the here and now, so enjoy it for all it’s worth!
2. Breath
Of all the blessings to be grateful for, life should be the first. If you’re breathing right now, your body is partaking in a miracle! Your lungs are a part of a wondrous system that keeps you alive. Beyond that, your breath has the power to soothe emotions and prepare you to tackle whatever comes your way. It enables you to exercise, blow bubbles, sing, shout, talk, twirl pinwheels and wish upon dandelions. Never forget the pleasure to be had in the little things!
3. Choices
This morning, I made the choice to eat a wholesome breakfast, exercise and come to work. Last night, I freely selected a book to read as I drifted to sleep. The aroma of my favorite flowers floated in through the window I chose to open. I am deciding now to write this blog post and relay this message to you: Freedom is a hard-earned treasure, so let’s cherish it.
4. Family
Whether on good terms or estranged, many of our beliefs and traditions stem from family. They are our launching pad into the world. Even as we blossom into unique individuals, we should reflect on our roots. And remember, family doesn’t end in blood. Think of the family you’ve built through friendships and recovery networks. Where would you be without them?
5. Friends
There is nothing quite like being with people who embrace the real you. Friends help you handle stress, support you through hardships, uplift you with laughter and enjoy mutual hobbies with you. They just get you! Let’s all give our friends a big hug today because they are blessings to be grateful for.
6. Mentors
Mentors may come and go, but the impact they make can be everlasting. They can be just about anyone: your sponsor, your parents, your recovering spouse or friend, an educator, or the darling elderly man who collects cans to donate to animal shelters. I find the best way to appreciate them is to live graciously with their lessons close at heart.
7. Health
Many of us struggle with truly loving the body that we have. I urge you to imagine just how far your body has taken you. Have you given birth to a baby bundle of joy? Have you held someone you love? Our bodies can heal, expand and adapt. This is yet another blessing of being alive.
8. Pets
Without a doubt, pets are one of the most tender, exciting blessings we could have. The emotional and physical health benefits to caring for animals is astounding. They rescue us just as much as we rescue them. Be sure to let your pets know how much you adore them!
9. Job
Every job, from heart surgery to garbage collecting, is valuable and necessary for a smooth-running society. You support yourself and your family through work. Even if it’s not your favorite place to be, it’s still one of the blessings to be grateful for just to able to earn a living and utilize your talents.
10. Hobbies
Do you paint, mountain climb or pound metal into intricate shapes? The hobbies you enjoy fulfill you, exercise your talents, and fill your free time. That satisfaction is both a comfort and a blessing.
11. Education
Around 121 million children don’t have access to an education. If you’re reading this post, take a moment to meditate on how blessed we are to be able to indulge in words. As readers, we hold a key to an endless vault of knowledge, imagination and inspiration. Are you making the most of it?
12. Food
Grilled salmon, fresh tomatoes, avocado, green tea and lemonade! Those are just a few of my favorite foods. Isn’t it just so delightful that we are gifted with taste buds? How often do we truly take time to savor each bite? Try it during your next meal.
13. Shelter
The roof over your head, whether it belongs to a tent or a mansion, protects you from the elements. It gives you a safe haven to retreat to and close your eyes in peace. As a recovering addict who has lost much, I cannot tell you enough how grateful I am to have a place to call home again.
14. Nature
Beautiful sunsets, dazzling flowers, and bubbling brooks inspire creativity, refresh your senses and alleviate sorrow. I am quite lovestruck with the lush, sprawling ocean just beyond my window. Wherever you feel most at peace outdoors, be sure to truly take all of that wild glory in.
15. Recovery
If you’re in recovery, you already know just how much you have to be grateful for. It truly is a rebirth that just keeps on giving. To express my own gratitude, I strive to deliver the gift of recovery to anyone else who is struggling with addiction.
With all of this in mind, I encourage you to try keeping a daily gratitude journal. What blessings would you include?
Blessings To Be Grateful For During Recovery
During recovery, there are certain times when all seems lost. However, remember what blessings to be grateful for can give you something to look forward to after recovery and keep you going. At Morningside Recovery, we teaching positive thinking and healthy coping mechanisms like this in our addiction therapy services. To learn more, call us today at 855-631-2135.
