Finding Gratitude in Recovery
November is a season of thankfulness, but in recovery, gratitude is more than a holiday tradition. It's about remembering where we've been, appreciating how far we've come, and recognizing the people who have helped us along the way.
In CMA, we often hear that gratitude is an action word. Being thankful means recognizing the good in our lives, while living gratefully means putting that appreciation into action—supporting another fellow, showing up for a meeting, giving back, or simply being there when someone needs us.
Recovery reminds us that life doesn't have to be perfect to find something worth appreciating. Sometimes it's the little things—a phone call, a familiar face at a meeting, a second chance, or the gift of another day clean and sober—that mean the most.
This November, we went around and asked our fellows one simple question:
"What are you thankful for this November?"
Their reflections remind us that while our journeys may be different, gratitude is something that connects us all.
As you read their responses, we invite you to reflect on your own blessings and consider how you can turn thankfulness into action.
After all, gratitude isn't just about what recovery has given us. It's about what we choose to do with the gift of recovery.
Happy Thanksgiving from our fellowship to yours!
What are you thankful for?:
“I am thankful that I am going to have another sober earth birthday this month, and that my life is calm, organized, full of laughter and authenticity. “ -Johnny M.
“Grateful to be a part of such a wonderful group of people on a shared mission to improve our lives and the lives of those around us. Thankful to all those who show up to meetings, events, and fellowship. Proud of those who lead by example through their continued sobriety and proud of those who keep coming back even after they fall.”- Brandon
“Thankful for the CMA Community welcoming me back with open arms. #Tribe” - Bartie
“CMA in Chicago has given me a fellowship where I found a connection of amazing people who I can trust and who remind me that I’m never on this journey alone.”- Lyn J.
“I’m thankful for CMA because this fellowship has given me so much more than recovery. It has given me genuine friendships, a sense of belonging, and people who have stood by me through both my successes and struggles. My recovery hasn’t been perfect, but I’ve learned that setbacks don’t erase my progress and that I never have to face my struggles alone.” - Eric R.
“I'm thankful I found CMA because it gave me something I had been missing for years—a sense of belonging and people who truly understand me.”- Andy W.
“I never imagined that so many of my closest friends would come from recovery. I'm incredibly thankful for this fellowship, the friendships I've made.”- Ryan M.
“Someone gave me their time when I had nothing to give back. Every year since, I have spent Thanksgiving with that same person. Thankful for my friend Jack, and this fellowship.” - Brock B,