Writing Prompt: The ABCs of Gratitude

 Prompt: Write about gratitude.

ABC (Always Be Contemplating) Gratitude 

I’ve been out of sorts lately, restless, irritable and discontent, and that calls for sitting down and drawing up a Gratitude List. It’s amazing how things always tend to look better after I’ve taken time to contemplate what I am grateful for in my life. I first learned about the Gratitude List exercise from my time in AA but I’ve since learned that lots of different organizations and avenues call on people to jot down what they are grateful for. It’s a powerful exercise and I’m glad I’m familiar with it. 

So here we go, today I’m extremely grateful for:

1. My Sobriety. This always comes first on any gratitude list I do, for everything hinges on my sober life. I treasure my sobriety and work hard to protect it. 

2. My family support, particularly from my husband Michael, and mom Wendy. Both have stood by my side as I struggle through management of my bipolar and anxiety disorders. I’m very lucky to have their support. 

3. Sponsor Shawn and the AA community. Thank goodness Shawn came into my life 4 years ago. I’ve had much personal growth as we’ve slowly been working through the Steps. Shawn has also made it possible for me to meet fellow folks in AA by hosting his Monday night Zoom and having various holiday gatherings at his home. I’m deeply grateful for Shawn and the AA fellowship.

4. To have a roof over my head, plus to live in the historic, picturesque German Village neighborhood. 

5. For food on the table, and to be able to indulge in my passion for cooking.

6. My Mental health stability and treatment team including my psychiatrist and talk therapist. Being dually diagnosed with bipolar disorder and alcoholism means I have to work extra hard to manage my life, and I’m blessed to have top notch mental health practitioners to work with who help keep me sane and sober. For me, I need to be medicine compliant, following directions or else everything falls apart. I’m done living in the unstable world of substance abuse and tinkering with meds. I’m living a life now where mental health treatment compliance and sobriety are of upmost importance. I’m grateful I see that now, and the chaos from years past is over.

7. Female friendships outside of AA. I like to keep a somewhat active social life going with local friends I have. I enjoy having coffee or lunch or dinner with friends. I’m working hard not to be isolated, even though sometimes I get anxious about going out. 

8. My Basset Hound Lily who is like a child to me. 

9. To be retired. My time is mine to spend as I choose. Enough said.

10. And lastly, I’m deeply grateful for this writing group. This is a place where I can freely express myself in a way I love: the written word. We have built a wonderful space for fellowship and sharing. I’m honored to be a part of this community.